Summer is finally here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious and refreshing meals. One of our favorite ingredients to throw on the grill is tuna – it’s a great source of protein, packed with nutrients, and can be seasoned and flavored in countless ways. In this article, we’ll share 18 mouthwatering grilled tuna recipes that are perfect for your next summer cookout or dinner party.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic butter to bold and spicy options like sriracha and chipotle lime crema, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with a range of flavors from Mediterranean-inspired olive tapenade to Asian-style teriyaki glaze, you’re sure to find at least one recipe that becomes your new go-to.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes and share the details on how to prepare them. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, this article is sure to have something for everyone.
Grilled Tuna Steaks with Lemon Garlic Butter
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and moist tuna recipe, perfectly balanced by the brightness of lemon and richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
3. Brush both sides of tuna steaks with the lemon-garlic butter mixture.
4. Grill tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total grilling time.
Spicy Sriracha Grilled Tuna with Avocado Salsa
Spicy Sriracha Grilled Tuna with Avocado Salsa
A flavorful fusion of spicy and savory, this recipe combines the bold flavors of sriracha sauce with the richness of grilled tuna and the creaminess of avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 2 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Avocado salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the tuna steaks with the sriracha glaze on both sides.
4. Grill tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, prepare avocado salsa (recipe below).
6. Serve grilled tuna topped with avocado salsa.
Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Grilled Tuna Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these succulent Honey Soy Glazed Grilled Tuna Skewers, perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steaks, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
3. Thread tuna cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-soy glaze evenly over the tuna pieces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Mediterranean Grilled Tuna with Olive Tapenade
Elevate your meal with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean! This recipe combines grilled tuna with a rich and savory olive tapenade, perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, coarsely chopped
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tbsp olive tapenade (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the tuna steaks.
4. Grill the tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix chopped olives and capers in a small bowl.
6. Spread a layer of olive tapenade on each grilled tuna steak, followed by a spoonful of the olive-caper mixture.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Tuna with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this tropical fusion of flavors! This recipe combines the richness of grilled tuna with the sweetness of mango salsa and the creamy comfort of coconut rice.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Tuna:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt, to taste
For the Coconut Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season tuna with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cumin in a bowl. Stir to combine.
4. Cook coconut rice according to package instructions.
5. Serve grilled tuna with mango salsa spooned over the top and a side of coconut rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Grilled Tuna with Cajun Spices
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this succulent blackened grilled tuna recipe, infused with the warmth of Cajun spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the tuna steaks with melted butter.
4. Sprinkle the Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the tuna steaks.
5. Place the tuna steaks on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes total
Grilled Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans
Grilled Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans Recipe
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing Grilled Tuna Nicoise Salad, featuring tender tuna, crispy green beans, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 12 oz fresh tuna steak
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cooked green beans (steamed or blanched)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season tuna steak with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the tuna for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before flaking.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, green beans, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Top with grilled tuna and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling the tuna: 6-8 minutes
– Preparing the salad: 10 minutes
Teriyaki Grilled Tuna with Pineapple Relish
Elevate your grilled tuna game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring a tangy pineapple relish.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 pineapples, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Brush both sides of the tuna steaks with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Grill the tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, jalapeño, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve the grilled tuna with the pineapple relish spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Tuna Tacos with Chipotle Lime Crema
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the richness of grilled tuna with the spicy kick of chipotle peppers and the brightness of lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season tuna steaks with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and honey. Blend until smooth.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing grilled tuna on a tortilla, topping with chipotle lime crema, and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Herb-Crusted Grilled Tuna with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your tuna game with this flavorful and healthy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. A blend of fresh herbs adds a bright and aromatic crust to the grilled tuna, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for grilling and roasting
– Assorted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions) for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the tuna steaks with olive oil and coat evenly with the herb mixture.
4. Grill the tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet.
6. Roast the vegetables in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Grilled Tuna Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of Hawaiian poke bowls with this recipe, featuring grilled tuna and a creamy sesame dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade tuna steak
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced cucumber, sliced green onions, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush tuna steak with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame seeds. Blend until smooth.
4. Assemble poke bowls by placing mixed greens on the bottom, followed by sliced grilled tuna, and finishing with a drizzle of sesame dressing.
5. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Tuna Burgers with Wasabi Mayo
Experience the bold flavors of Japan-inspired cuisine with this unique and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna burgers (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup wasabi mayonnaise (see below for recipe)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other toppings you prefer
Wasabi Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill tuna burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Spread wasabi mayonnaise on each bun.
5. Assemble burgers with grilled tuna patties, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Tuna with Quinoa Salad
This refreshing recipe combines the flaky goodness of grilled tuna with a zesty citrus marinade and a nutty quinoa salad, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add tuna steaks; marinate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Grill tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve grilled tuna atop the quinoa salad with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Tuna with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilled tuna game with this flavorful and herby sauce from Argentina. This recipe combines the richness of tuna with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place tuna steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, brush chimichurri sauce on both sides of the tuna during the last minute of cooking.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Tuna Kebabs with Tzatziki Dip
Savor the flavors of Greece with these succulent grilled tuna kebabs paired with a refreshing tzatziki dip. Perfect for a quick and easy summer dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steaks, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Tzatziki dip ingredients (see below)
Tzatziki Dip:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread tuna cubes, garlic, and oregano onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare tzatziki dip by combining yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled tuna kebabs with tzatziki dip for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Grilled Tuna with Grilled Corn
This recipe combines the bold flavors of smoked paprika and grilled tuna with the sweetness of corn, creating a delicious summer dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the tuna steaks with the spice mixture on both sides.
4. Grill the tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, brush the corn ears with butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill the corn for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, or until slightly charred.
7. Serve the grilled tuna on top of the grilled corn.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Tuna with Ginger Scallion Noodles
Savor the flavors of the Pacific with this easy and impressive dish, featuring grilled tuna paired with a flavorful ginger scallion noodle stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup soba noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a wok or large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add ginger, green onions, and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add soy sauce and stir-fry noodles into the mixture.
7. Serve grilled tuna with ginger scallion noodles and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Tuna Steak with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your grilled tuna game with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the tuna steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the tuna with the balsamic glaze mixture.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 18 mouth-watering grilled tuna recipes! From classic flavors to bold twists, these dishes are sure to impress. Try Grilled Tuna Steaks with Lemon Garlic Butter for a bright and citrusy twist, or Spicy Sriracha Grilled Tuna with Avocado Salsa for a spicy kick. For a sweet and savory treat, try Honey Soy Glazed Grilled Tuna Skewers or Mediterranean Grilled Tuna with Olive Tapenade. With flavors ranging from Asian-inspired to Latin-tinged, there’s something for every palate. Dive in and discover your new favorite grilled tuna recipe!
