These mouthwatering air fryer tuna steaks deliver restaurant-quality results in just 10 minutes from start to finish. With only 121 calories per serving and packed with lean protein, they’re the perfect choice for a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner.
The air fryer seals in all the natural juices while creating a perfectly seared exterior that rivals any high-end steakhouse. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just starting to explore tuna beyond the can, this foolproof method will become your new favorite way to prepare this versatile fish.
Ingredients for Perfectly Seared Tuna
- Soy Sauce/Tamari: ¼ cup, forms the savory base of marinade
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon, adds nutty Asian flavor
- Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon, fresh citrus kick
- Honey: 1 tablespoon, balances saltiness with subtle sweetness
- Garlic: 1 clove minced, infuses aromatic depth
- Kosher Salt: ½ teaspoon, enhances overall flavors
- Garnishes: Green onions and sesame seeds for elegant finish
Step-by-Step Air Fryer Instructions
- Marinade Creation: Mix soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, and salt in a large bowl until well combined
- Marination: Coat tuna steaks thoroughly and refrigerate for 20-60 minutes for best flavor absorption
- Air Fryer Prep: Place marinated steaks in a single layer in air fryer basket
- Cooking Process: Air fry at 380°F for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking
- Temperature Check: Cook until internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare perfection
- Resting Period: Let steaks rest 2 minutes before serving
- Final Touch: Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for restaurant-style presentation
Cooking Techniques
Air frying tuna steaks is a fantastic way to get that perfect sear while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The key is watching the cooking time closely – just 4-5 minutes total gives you that restaurant-style medium-rare finish. If you’re new to cooking tuna, use a meat thermometer to check for 125°F at the center. Remember that tuna cooks really fast, and it’s better to undercook slightly than overcook, since you can always add more time if needed.
Temperature Guide
For the perfect tuna steak doneness:
- Rare: 110-115°F (pink/red center)
- Medium-rare: 120-125°F (pink center)
- Medium: 130-135°F (light pink center)
- Well-done: 140°F+ (cooked through)
Serving Suggestions
These tasty tuna steaks pair beautifully with Asian-inspired sides. Try them with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Asian slaw with sesame dressing
- Cucumber salad
- Edamame
Add extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for that perfect finishing touch!
Storage Tips
Cooked tuna steaks are best eaten right away while they’re fresh and hot. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Try serving leftover tuna cold in a salad – reheating can make it dry. For food safety, never refreeze previously frozen tuna that’s been thawed.
Air Fryer Tuna Steaks
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon green onions sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Place the soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, and salt in a large bowl. Mix to combine.
- Add the tuna steaks to the bowl and toss until covered in the marinade.
- Let marinate in the refrigerator for 20 minutes, or up to an hour.
- Place the marinated tuna steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 380°F/190°C for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tuna steaks reach an internal temperature of 125°F/52°C for medium rare tuna steaks. You can cook the tuna steaks for few minutes longer if you prefer your tuna to be medium or medium well done.
- Let sit and rest for 2 minutes before serving. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
