When it comes to special occasions, few ingredients are as impressive as fresh tuna. A dish that’s both elegant and flavorful, tuna tartare is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests. And with its versatility and range of flavor profiles, you can create a truly unique experience for your next dinner party or celebration. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 exquisite tuna tartare recipes, each one showcasing a different twist on this classic dish.
From the spicy kick of sriracha to the sweet and tangy notes of mango, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving a intimate gathering or a grand feast, we’ve got you covered with ideas for toppings, garnishes, and presentation that will take your tuna tartare game to the next level.
Classic Tuna Tartare with Avocado and Sesame
Experience the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this refreshing take on traditional tuna tartare.
Ingredients:
• 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped scallions or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, diced avocado, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Gently fold until well combined.
2. Stir in the lemon juice until the mixture reaches your desired level of tartness.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir to re-distribute the ingredients.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is served cold.
Spicy Sriracha Tuna Tartare with Crispy Wontons
Elevate your appetizer game with this bold and refreshing take on traditional tuna tartare. A spicy kick from sriracha and a satisfying crunch from crispy wontons make this dish perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup crispy wonton strips (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Stir in chopped green onions.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, arrange crispy wonton strips on a platter or individual plates.
5. Spoon the tuna tartare over the wontons and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dish is best served chilled, making it perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Asian-Inspired Tuna Tartare with Soy and Ginger
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this refreshing tuna tartare recipe, infused with soy sauce and ginger. Perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Mix gently until the fish is coated evenly.
2. Stir in sesame oil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Mediterranean Tuna Tartare with Olives and Feta
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing tuna tartare, elevated by the salty tang of feta and the brininess of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, olives, feta, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is best served immediately after preparation.
Wasabi Lime Tuna Tartare with Cucumber Cups
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and zesty take on traditional tuna tartare. The perfect blend of spicy wasabi, tangy lime, and cool cucumber will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sushi-grade tuna
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp wasabi paste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced English cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cucumber slices for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine tuna, lime juice, wasabi paste, and cilantro. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, spoon the tuna mixture onto chilled cucumber slices (about 1/4 cup per slice).
4. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook affair.
Truffle Oil Tuna Tartare with Quail Egg Topping
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent tuna tartare recipe, infused with the rich flavors of truffle oil and topped with a creamy quail egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup grated daikon radish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 quail eggs, hard-boiled and halved
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, truffle oil, soy sauce, scallions, and daikon radish. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, place a small spoonful of the tuna mixture onto a plate or glass.
4. Top with a quail egg half and garnish with sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Mango Tuna Tartare with Coconut and Cilantro
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing take on traditional tuna tartare, featuring the sweetness of mango and creaminess of coconut. This unique fusion is perfect for a summer soiree or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sashimi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mango, coconut, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook, straight-to-the-table delight.
Korean Gochujang Tuna Tartare with Pear
Discover the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with this unique tuna tartare recipe, elevated by the sweet and spicy kick of gochujang.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sashimi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced pear (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, gochujang, soy sauce, and cilantro. Mix well.
2. Fold in diced pear until evenly distributed.
3. Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture and season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with additional cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This is a raw dish that’s best served chilled.
Enjoy your bold and refreshing Korean Gochujang Tuna Tartare with Pear!
Citrus-Marinated Tuna Tartare with Grapefruit
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing and flavorful tuna tartare, perfectly balanced by the tanginess of grapefruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp citrus-infused olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine tuna cubes, grapefruit juice, citrus-infused olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Mix gently to coat the tuna evenly.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is raw and ready in under an hour.
Tuna Tartare Stuffed Endive Boats
A refreshing and elegant appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 endive leaves
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, and chopped dill. Mix well.
2. Cut off the top third of each endive leaf to create a “boat.” Scoop out some of the white core to make room for the filling.
3. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the tuna mixture into each endive boat.
4. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Ponzu-Glazed Tuna Tartare with Daikon Radish
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, combining the richness of tuna tartare with the brightness of ponzu glaze and the crunch of daikon radish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sashimi-grade tuna
– 1/4 cup ponzu glaze (or store-bought)
– 2 medium daikon radishes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tuna into small cubes and place in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together ponzu glaze, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Pour the ponzu mixture over the tuna and gently fold until the fish is well coated.
4. Slice the daikon radishes into thin strips and arrange on a plate or serving dish.
5. Spoon the tuna tartare over the radish slices.
6. Serve immediately and garnish with thinly sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation time)
Tuna Tartare with Crispy Rice Cakes
Experience the flavors of Japan with this refreshing tuna tartare served on crispy rice cakes, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated daikon (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Crispy rice cakes ( store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and daikon (if using). Mix gently until the tuna is coated with the marinade.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, season the tuna with salt to taste.
4. To assemble, place a small spoonful of the tuna tartare on top of a crispy rice cake.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Herbed Tuna Tartare with Lemon Zest and Capers
A refreshing twist on traditional tartare, this recipe combines the rich flavors of tuna with bright notes from lemon zest and capers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– Lemon zest (from 1/4 lemon)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, parsley, dill, lemon juice, and mustard.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in capers and lemon zest.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Tuna Tartare with Pickled Ginger and Shiso
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing Japanese-inspired tuna tartare, featuring tangy pickled ginger and fragrant shiso. This dish is perfect for a light yet impressive start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (about 6 oz), drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped shiso leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Mix well.
2. Stir in the pickled ginger and shiso leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional shiso leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is served raw.
Smoky Chipotle Tuna Tartare with Corn Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant tuna tartare dish, infused with the smokiness of chipotle peppers and served with a sweet corn salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Tuna Tartare:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Corn Salsa:
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the corn salsa by combining all ingredients in a small bowl. Stir to combine.
4. To serve, place tuna tartare on toasted bread or crackers, topped with a spoonful of corn salsa.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Tuna Tartare with Yuzu Kosho and Microgreens
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing tuna tartare, elevated by the bright citrusy flavor of yuzu kosho and peppery microgreens.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tablespoons yuzu kosho
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Microgreens for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, yuzu kosho, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with microgreens.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time)
Tuna Tartare with Watermelon and Mint
Elevate your summer gatherings with this light and zesty tuna tartare recipe, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of watermelon and the freshness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sushi-grade tuna, sashimi-cut into small pieces
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna pieces, soy sauce, and lime juice. Gently mix until the tuna is coated.
2. Add diced watermelon and chopped mint leaves to the bowl. Mix gently to combine.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None (raw tuna)
Tuna Tartare with Black Sesame and Chives
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing tuna tartare, infused with nutty black sesame and oniony chives. This light and zesty dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup finely chopped chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, lemon juice, and sesame oil. Mix gently with a fork until just combined.
2. Stir in black sesame seeds and chives.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only, as this dish requires no cooking)
Tuna Tartare with Jalapeño and Pineapple
A refreshing twist on the classic tuna tartare, this recipe adds a spicy kick from jalapeño peppers and a touch of sweetness from pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of fresh lime juice
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup of pineapple chunks
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Fold in the pineapple chunks.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a raw preparation dish.
Tuna Tartare with Edamame and Toasted Nori
A refreshing and vibrant appetizer that combines the richness of tuna with the nutty flavor of edamame and the crunch of toasted nori seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked edamame, shelled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 sheets of nori seaweed
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, edamame, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lemon juice. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Preheat toaster oven or conventional oven to 350°F (180°C).
4. Place nori sheets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
5. To assemble, place a spoonful of tuna mixture onto a plate or serving board. Top with toasted nori seaweed and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Summary
Elevate your culinary skills with these 20 exquisite tuna tartare recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic combinations like avocado and sesame to bold flavors like sriracha and gochujang, there’s something for every taste and preference. Try pairing tuna with quail eggs and truffle oil, or opt for refreshing flavor combinations like mango and coconut or watermelon and mint. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated appetizer or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to impress.
