Tuna Steaks with Creamy Garlic Sauce & Salad Recipe

Sizzling Tuna Steaks with Creamy Garlic Sauce & Salad Recipe

Culinary enthusiasts adore these succulent tuna steaks with a luscious creamy garlic sauce that promises an elegant dining experience.

Seared to perfection, these ocean-fresh fillets deliver incredible flavor and protein-packed nutrition.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients dance together, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Garlic’s robust essence infuses every delectable bite with rich, comforting warmth.

Crisp salad greens provide a refreshing contrast to the tender fish, balancing each mouthwatering serving.

Light yet satisfying, this recipe transforms a simple meal into a restaurant-quality feast.

Flavor Twists for Tuna Steaks with Garlic Sauce

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter, lactose-free sauce. Use olive oil instead of butter to keep the recipe dairy-free.
  • Low-Carb Champion: Swap mixed greens for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Skip the vinegar and use lemon juice for a tangy, low-carb alternative that keeps the meal light and fresh.
  • Mediterranean Magic: Substitute oregano with fresh basil and add kalamata olives to the salad. Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a protein-packed, Mediterranean-inspired sauce.
  • Omega-3 Boost: Replace tuna with salmon for an extra omega-3 rich option. Keep the same cooking method and sauce, creating a heart-healthy meal packed with nutritional benefits.

Serving Suggestions for Tuna Steaks with Salad

  • Elegant Date Night Platter: Create a romantic dinner setup with candlelight and elegant plating, arranging sliced tuna artfully over greens with sauce drizzled gracefully.
  • Mediterranean Fusion Presentation: Serve alongside warm pita bread, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese to enhance Mediterranean flavors and textures.
  • Protein-Packed Wellness Bowl: Transform the dish into a nutritious bowl by adding quinoa, extra roasted vegetables, and a light tahini drizzle for added protein and complexity.
  • Wine Pairing Experience: Complement the tuna with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to balance the creamy garlic sauce and enhance the seafood's delicate flavor.

How to Store Tuna Steaks with Garlic Sauce

  • Store leftover tuna steaks and sauce separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Wrap tuna steaks tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Sauce can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks.
  • Gently warm tuna in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave on 50% power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

  • Is tuna steak healthy?

Tuna steaks are packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients like vitamin D and selenium, making them an excellent heart-healthy protein choice.

  • What type of tuna works best for this recipe?

Yellowfin, bluefin, or albacore tuna steaks are ideal, preferably fresh and sushi-grade for the best texture and flavor.

  • How do I know when tuna is cooked perfectly?

For medium-rare, cook tuna until it has a pink center and slight char on the outside, about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

Why Tuna Steaks with Creamy Garlic Sauce Impress

  • Quick and Flavorful Meal: Prepare a restaurant-quality dish in just a few simple steps, perfect for impressing dinner guests or treating yourself to a gourmet experience.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by choosing your preferred tuna steak, adjusting spice levels, or pairing with different side dishes to suit your taste and mood.
  • Nutritious and Balanced: Enjoy a protein-packed main course with a fresh, crisp salad that provides a light and healthy complement to the rich, creamy garlic sauce.
  • Restaurant-Style Cooking at Home: Master professional grilling techniques and create a luxurious sauce that elevates a simple tuna steak into an elegant, sophisticated meal without complicated cooking skills.

Ingredients for Tuna Steaks with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Main Protein:
  • Tuna Steaks: A delicate and flavorful fish that serves as the star of this recipe.
Seasoning for Tuna:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: A blend of spices that enhances the natural flavor of the tuna.
Creamy Garlic Sauce Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce.
  • Garlic: Adds a bold and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a smooth and luxurious texture to the sauce.
  • Parsley, Oregano: Fresh herbs that bring brightness and depth to the creamy sauce.
  • Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that balance and elevate the sauce's taste.
Salad Ingredients:
  • Mixed Greens: A fresh and crisp base for the salad.
  • Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber: Colorful and refreshing vegetables that add crunch and flavor.
  • Olive Oil, Red Wine Vinegar: A classic dressing that complements the salad ingredients.
  • Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the salad's overall taste.

How to Cook Tuna Steaks with Garlic Sauce and Salad

Step 1: Zesty Tuna Prep

Gather your tuna steaks and sprinkle them with a tantalizing blend of:
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Massage the seasonings into the fish, ensuring every inch is coated with flavor.

Step 2: Sizzling Grill Action

Fire up the grill to a blazing medium-high temperature.

Carefully place the tuna steaks on the hot grates.

Cook each side for 2-3 minutes, creating beautiful grill marks.

The goal is a perfectly seared exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Once done, let the steaks rest for 5 minutes to lock in those delicious juices.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Garlic Magic

In a small saucepan, melt butter until it’s silky smooth.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around until fragrant.

Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle in:
  • Fresh parsley
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir the sauce gently, allowing it to simmer and thicken into a luxurious creamy dream.

Step 4: Craft a Vibrant Salad

Grab a mixing bowl and toss together:
  • Mixed salad greens
  • Juicy cherry tomatoes
  • Crisp cucumber

Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Give everything a gentle toss to combine.

Step 5: Plate Like a Pro

Spread the fresh salad across dinner plates.

Slice the tuna steaks into beautiful strips and arrange them artfully on top.

Cascade the creamy garlic sauce over the fish, letting it drip dramatically.

Tips for Juicy Tuna Steaks with Garlic Sauce

  • Pat the tuna steaks dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature; tuna is best served medium-rare at 125°F for optimal tenderness and taste.
  • Whisk the cream sauce continuously to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, silky consistency that clings beautifully to the fish.
  • Replace salad greens with mixed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version that keeps the dish light and nutritious.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or chives to add extra brightness and depth to both the sauce and salad dressing.
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Tuna Steaks with Creamy Garlic Sauce & Salad Recipe

Tuna Steaks with Creamy Garlic Sauce & Salad Recipe


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4.5 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Succulent tuna steaks drizzled with creamy garlic sauce bring Mediterranean flavors to your dinner table. Quick and elegant, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste that impresses with minimal effort, letting you savor a gourmet meal without complex preparation.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 tuna steaks (about 1.5 inches thick)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup cucumber (diced)
  • Mixed greens

Seasoning and Spices:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tuna)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce and Dressing Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for salad)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Instructions

  1. Infuse tuna steaks with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for robust flavor enhancement.
  2. Preheat grill to 400°F, creating distinct grill marks by cooking tuna 2-3 minutes per side until desired doneness is achieved.
  3. Allow tuna to rest 5 minutes after grilling to seal in natural juices and ensure tender texture.
  4. Create creamy garlic sauce by melting butter over medium heat, sautéing minced garlic until aromatic and translucent.
  5. Whisk heavy cream into garlic butter, incorporating fresh parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper to develop a silky, luxurious sauce consistency.
  6. Prepare vibrant salad by combining crisp mixed greens with juicy cherry tomatoes and refreshing cucumber slices.
  7. Dress salad with a zesty vinaigrette using olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of seasoning for bright, balanced flavor.
  8. Plate salad as a bed, strategically arranging sliced tuna steaks on top for elegant presentation.
  9. Generously drizzle creamy garlic sauce over tuna, allowing it to cascade delicately across the dish.
  10. Optional: Enhance sauce with red pepper flakes for subtle heat and complexity.
  11. Complement meal with complementary sides like fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or roasted seasonal vegetables.

Notes

  • Opt for sushi-grade tuna to ensure the best flavor and safety when serving rare or medium-rare.
  • Marinate the tuna for 15-30 minutes before grilling to enhance its tenderness and infuse additional flavor.
  • Adjust cooking time based on thickness; thinner steaks cook faster and can become dry if overcooked.
  • Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free sauce option.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 474 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 39 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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