Tuna Steak with Avocado Salsa Recipe
Introduction
This tuna steak with avocado salsa is a luxurious yet affordable dish that’s perfect for a special dinner. The seared tuna is tender and buttery, while the creamy avocado salsa brings a fresh, zesty contrast that brightens every bite.

Ingredients
- 2 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 lime
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the avocado salsa by dicing the avocado and mixing it with the tomato, red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Squeeze in the juice of half the lime and add a pinch of salt. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Season the tuna steaks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over high heat until it is very hot.
- Step 4: Add the tuna steaks to the pan and sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side for a rare center. Cook longer if you prefer no pink inside.
- Step 5: Remove the tuna from the heat and let it rest for one minute.
- Step 6: Slice the tuna against the grain into thin pieces.
- Step 7: Arrange the tuna slices on a plate and top with a generous scoop of avocado salsa. Finish by squeezing the remaining lime juice over everything for extra brightness.
Tips & Variations
- Use sashimi-grade tuna for the best texture and flavor when searing rare.
- If you prefer a spicier salsa, keep the jalapeño seeds or add a dash of chili flakes.
- Serve with a side of steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal.
- To avoid browning, prepare the avocado salsa just before serving.
Storage
Store leftover tuna and avocado salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat the tuna briefly in a hot pan or enjoy cold. The avocado salsa is best eaten fresh but can be kept chilled for a few hours with minimal browning.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I cook the tuna steaks more than rare?
Yes, you can cook tuna steaks longer if you prefer them medium or well done, but be careful not to overcook as the fish can become dry and lose its buttery texture.
What can I substitute for cilantro in the salsa?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be used as a milder herb alternative in the avocado salsa.
PrintTuna Steak with Avocado Salsa Recipe
This Tuna Steak with Avocado Salsa recipe offers a luxurious dining experience that’s budget-friendly. The seared tuna steaks are buttery and tender, complemented perfectly by a creamy, zesty avocado salsa bursting with fresh flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an elegant yet simple dish ideal for a quick dinner or entertaining guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Tuna Steaks
- 2 tuna steaks (6 oz each) ($12.99/lb)
- 1 tbsp olive oil ($0.25)
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.10)
Avocado Salsa
- 1 ripe avocado ($1.50)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced ($0.40)
- 1 tomato, diced ($0.75)
- 1 lime, juiced ($0.50)
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped ($0.25)
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced ($0.50)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salsa: Dice the ripe avocado and combine it in a bowl with diced tomato, finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño if using. Squeeze in the juice of half a lime and add a pinch of salt. Stir gently to mix all the flavors and set aside to meld while you cook the tuna.
- Season the Tuna: Pat the tuna steaks dry and season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over high heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until the oil is shimmering and very hot, nearly smoking, to achieve a good sear on the tuna.
- Sear the Tuna: Carefully add the tuna steaks to the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes to keep the center rare and buttery. If you prefer your tuna cooked more, extend the searing time by another minute per side.
- Rest the Tuna: Remove the tuna steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for about one minute. This helps the juices redistribute for a moister steak.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the tuna against the grain into thin slices. Arrange the slices on a serving plate and top generously with the avocado salsa prepared earlier.
- Garnish with Lime: Finish by squeezing the remaining lime juice over the plated tuna and salsa to add a fresh, zesty burst of flavor right before serving.
Notes
- Use sushi-grade tuna steaks for the best texture and flavor suited for rare searing.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity or omit it for a milder salsa.
- Serve immediately after plating to enjoy the contrast of warm tuna and cool, creamy salsa.
- Leftover salsa can be refrigerated and consumed within 1 day for optimal freshness.
- You can accompany this dish with a simple green salad or steamed rice to round out the meal.
Keywords: tuna steak, avocado salsa, seared tuna, quick dinner, healthy seafood recipe, creamy salsa, fresh cilantro, lime, jalapeño, budget-friendly seafood

