Description
Seared Tuna Steaks with Lemon, Caper, and Parsley Butter is a quick and elegant dish featuring fresh tuna steaks seared to perfection and topped with a flavorful, melted butter sauce infused with capers, parsley, and lemon. This recipe combines freshness and richness in a simple yet impressive presentation ideal for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
Scale
Tuna Steaks
- 2 fresh tuna steaks (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
Lemon, Caper, and Parsley Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the compound butter: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped capers, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside.
- Season the tuna steaks: Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Heat until the oil shimmers, indicating it is hot and ready for searing.
- Sear the tuna steaks: Carefully place the seasoned tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side for rare doneness. If you prefer your tuna more cooked, extend the cooking time accordingly, but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- Add the butter topping: Once the tuna has reached your desired doneness, reduce the heat to low. Place a generous dollop of the lemon, caper, and parsley butter on top of each steak. Allow the butter to melt slowly, coating the tuna with its bright and savory flavors.
- Plate the steaks: Gently transfer the seared tuna steaks to serving plates.
- Garnish and serve: Spoon any remaining melted butter from the skillet over the steaks. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the butter mixture just before serving.
- Ensure the skillet and oil are sufficiently hot before adding the tuna to achieve a nice sear.
- Use fresh tuna steaks of good quality for the best texture and taste.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the tuna steaks and your preferred level of doneness.
- This dish pairs well with light salads, steamed vegetables, or a bed of rice.
