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Garlic Butter Ahi Tuna: 20-Min Perfect Dinner

Garlic Butter Ahi Tuna

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This Garlic Butter Ahi Tuna Recipe delivers perfectly seared, restaurant-quality tuna steaks in under 20 minutes. Juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, these tuna steaks are finished with a rich garlic herb butter that adds depth, aroma, and irresistible flavor. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or elegant dinner party!

Ingredients

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  • 2 fresh Ahi tuna steaks (68 oz each, 1 inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped chives or thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional Garnish: Lemon wedges, crushed red pepper flakes, microgreens, or sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tuna: Pat tuna steaks dry and brush lightly with olive oil. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Sear the tuna: Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once hot, add a little oil and sear tuna 1–2 minutes per side for rare or 3 minutes for medium-rare. Do not overcook.
  3. Make the garlic butter: In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and chives.
  4. Combine and serve: Place seared tuna on a plate and spoon garlic herb butter over the top. Garnish with lemon wedges and herbs. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use sushi-grade Ahi tuna for the best quality and flavor.
  • Make sure your pan is very hot before searing to get a perfect crust.
  • Do not overcook — tuna should stay pink in the middle.
  • Garlic burns quickly, so cook it over medium heat and add butter near the end.
  • Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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