Mediterranean Tuna Steaks
Mediterranean Tuna Steaks are seared tuna served with a warm sauce of sautéed onions, garlic, tomatoes, black olives, fresh basil, parsley, and capers. The combination delivers savory, herbaceous flavors with a touch of acidity from the tomatoes, complemented by the meaty texture of the tuna steaks. Cooking includes sauteing a flavorful sauce and quickly pan-searing the tuna to preserve tenderness.
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 oz can whole tomatoes drained and chopped, preferably San Marzano
- 1 cup black olives pitted, left whole, or, sliced/chopped
- 2 tablespoon basil fresh, chopped
- 2 tablespoon Italian parsley fresh, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 4 oz tuna steaks
- kosher salt
- ground black pepper
- 4 teaspoon capers nonpareil, drained
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the onion and saute until it begins to soften, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and saute until golden, about 2 minutes longer.
- Stir in the tomatoes, olives, basil, and parsley and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Lightly season the tuna steaks on both sides with salt and pepper.
- In another skillet, large enough to hold the tuna in a single layer, warm the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the tuna steaks to the skillet and cook, turning once, until lightly browned on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. If desired, tilt the skillet to the side and use a paper towel to soak up excess olive oil.
- Pour the reserved sauce directly over the fish, reduce the heat to low, stir in the capers, and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.
- Transfer tuna steaks and sauce to plates and garnish with additional chopped parsley.
Notes
- Tuna steaks thicker than 5–6 ounces need 3–4 minutes per side to reach medium-rare doneness.
- Allow the sauce to simmer after adding to the fish to blend flavors before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 2 days; best eaten fresh.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 4 people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 428
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 428kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 7g | 2% |
| Protein | 41g | 82% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 65mg | 22% |
| Sodium | 652mg | 27% |
| Potassium | 605mg | 13% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 4356IU | 87% |
| Vitamin C | 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 50mg | 5% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.