Seared Tuna Steaks with Lemon, Caper & Parsley Butter

Introduction

When it comes to quick yet impressive meals, seared tuna steaks with lemon, caper, and parsley butter stand out as a top choice. I recently prepared this dish for my family, and it was met with enthusiastic applause. The tender, juicy tuna paired with the zesty butter sauce elevated our dinner experience to a restaurant-level delight. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the fresh flavors made it a hit, and it has quickly become a favorite in our household. Here’s how you can recreate this delicious dish at home!

Ingredients

• 800g-1kg fresh tuna steaks
• Olive oil (for brushing)
• Sea salt and pepper (to taste)
• 100g salted butter
• 3 tablespoons baby capers
• 2½ tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Caperberries and lemon wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna: Start by brushing the fresh tuna steaks with a generous amount of olive oil. Season them with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
2. Sear the Tuna: Heat a large griddle or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned tuna steaks. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the steaks. For a perfectly pink center, be careful not to overcook them; remember they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.
3. Make the Lemon Caper Butter: While the tuna is searing, melt the butter in a small pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the baby capers, chopped parsley, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This will infuse the butter with a delightful tangy flavor.
4. Serve: Place the seared tuna steaks on plates and generously pour the lemon caper butter over them. Garnish with caperberries and lemon wedges for an extra pop of color and flavor.
5. Enjoy: This dish is perfect when served with sides like boiled new potatoes tossed in butter and parsley, cooked asparagus, or a fresh green salad.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve

• Plating: Arrange the seared tuna steaks neatly on individual plates.
• Sauce: Drizzle the lemon caper butter generously over each steak.
• Garnishes: Add caperberries and lemon wedges around the plate for an appealing presentation.
• Side Dishes: Pair with:
• Boiled new potatoes tossed in butter and parsley
• Steamed asparagus
• A fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing

Additional Tips

1. Choosing Tuna: Opt for sushi-grade tuna for the best flavor and texture.
2. Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for doneness; aim for a light sear while keeping the center pink.
3. Butter Consistency: Make sure to melt the butter slowly to prevent it from burning.
4. Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley truly makes a difference; try to use it rather than dried.
5. Leftover Butter: If you have leftover lemon caper butter, it can be stored in the refrigerator and used as a sauce for other seafood or vegetables.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Butter: Experiment with different herbs such as dill or basil for varied flavor profiles.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for a hint of heat.
• Different Proteins: This recipe works well with other types of fish, such as salmon or swordfish.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute tuna with thick slices of grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian dish.
• Citrus Twist: Incorporate other citrus juices, like orange or lime, into the butter for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors of the dish.
• A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the richness of the tuna and butter.
• For a heartier meal, serve the tuna alongside wild rice or quinoa.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover seared tuna, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze cooked tuna due to texture changes, you can freeze raw tuna steaks if you won’t be using them right away.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen tuna steaks?

• Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and at room temperature before cooking.

1. What can I substitute for capers?

• You can use green olives or a bit of pickle relish for a different flavor.

1. Is it safe to eat seared tuna rare?

• Yes, sushi-grade tuna is safe to eat rare, but always ensure it’s sourced from a reputable supplier.

1. Can I make the caper butter in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

1. What is the best way to store leftover tuna?

• Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

1. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

• Absolutely! Fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor.

1. How do I know when the tuna is done?

• The outside should be seared while the inside remains pink. Use a meat thermometer for best results; aim for around 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare.

1. What if I don’t have a griddle pan?

• A regular frying pan will work just fine; just ensure it’s non-stick or well-oiled.

1. Can I add garlic to the butter sauce?

• Yes, minced garlic would add a lovely depth of flavor.

1. What other sides would work well with this dish?
   • Try serving it with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a Mediterranean grain salad.

Conclusion

Seared tuna steaks with lemon, caper, and parsley butter are a delightful dish that’s both elegant and simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a special meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of fresh tuna and zesty butter creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your guests raving. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to a culinary experience that brings the taste of the sea right to your table!

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