Garlic Herbed Grilled Tuna Steaks

Total Time

Prep: 10 min. + marinating Grill: 10 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Aug. 09, 2023
Grilled tuna steak recipes aren't limited to restaurants. After enjoying yellowfin tuna in southwest Florida, I came up with this recipe so I could enjoy the flavor of my favorite fish at home. —Jan Huntington, Painesville, Ohio

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 4 tuna steaks (6 ounces each)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions

  1. In a container with a lid, combine the lemon juice, oil, garlic and thyme. Add the tuna and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes, turning tuna occasionally.
  2. Remove tuna from bag; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drain tuna, discarding marinade. On a lightly greased grill rack, grill tuna, covered, over medium-hot heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare or until slightly pink in the center.

Grilled Tuna Steak Tips

Should tuna steak be pink in the middle?

Tuna steaks can be pink in the middle because it keeps it moist, tender and flavorful. If cooked longer, tuna steaks can dry out quickly. You can tell a tuna steak is done when the outside is firm to the touch, it can be easily flaked with a fork and the center is still pink. Better yet, use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 90°F (32°C).

What is a good side dish for tuna steaks?

Tuna steaks lend themselves beautifully to a number of delicious sides. Serve them with a simple salad like mixed greens with lemon champagne vinaigrette and warm green bean and potato salad. You can also pair tuna steaks with almond vegetable stir-fry or lemon rice pilaf.

How healthy is tuna steak?

Tuna is a heart-healthy protein that contains little to no fat and a good amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to regulating blood circulation and reducing cholesterol. Tuna also contains potassium, which is helpful for lowering blood pressure. Vitamin B in tuna builds strong bones, and antioxidants help boost the immune system, protecting from disease.

Nutrition Facts

1 each: 218 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 211mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 40g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 fat.