Grilled Tuna With Basil Pesto
Recipe Overview
Level: Easy
Yield: 4 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes (20 minutes prep, 10 minutes cook)
Ingredients
For the Tuna
Tuna steaks
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for brushing
Lemon juice, for drizzling
For the Basil Pesto
Garlic
Fresh basil leaves
Pine nuts
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup olive oil (plus more if needed)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Directions
Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to 400°F and let it warm up while you prep the tuna.
Season the tuna: Wash the tuna steaks and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper, then brush lightly with olive oil to help them sear evenly.
Grill the tuna: Place the tuna on the hot grill. Sear each side for 2 minutes for a rare, tender center. For well-done tuna, add 2–3 more minutes per side. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
Make the pesto: While the tuna rests, combine garlic, basil leaves, pine nuts, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is thick and smooth (add more oil if it’s too stiff). Transfer to a bowl and stir in the Parmesan.
Serve: Slice the tuna across the grain (on a slight bias) into 1/2-inch pieces. Arrange on a plate, drizzle with lemon juice, and top with the basil pesto.
This simple recipe combines tender grilled tuna with a vibrant, creamy pesto for a quick and flavorful main dish. The short cook time ensures the tuna stays moist, while the pesto adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. Perfect for weeknights or casual dinners, it’s a dish that’s easy to customize to your taste preferences.
