Perfect Tuna Tartare Recipe (2024)

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Tuna Tartare is a delectable, yet simple dish, consisting of cubes of raw, sashimi-grade tuna that has been lightly seasoned. The tuna is placed atop creamy avocado for a flavor combo that’s out of this world.

Though many are wary of working with raw fish at home, by using high-quality tuna, this dish is safe to eat and easy to prepare. Tuna tartare is high in protein, low in calories and makes for a delicious hors d’oeuvre or snack. If you like Tartare, make sure to check out our French Steak Tartare Recipe and Salmon Tartare.

What is Tuna Tartare?

Like other tartare dishes, tuna tartare is prepared using raw meat. Sushi-grade tuna is delicately sliced into bite-size cubes and seasoned with soy sauce and herbs. Tartare is popularly eaten as an appetizer, served with crackers or toast.

What is Tuna Tartare Made of?

• Sashimi-grade Tuna: Visit a fishmonger and find the highest-quality sushi/sashimi-grade tuna. The fish should have a deep red color and a fresh smell.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: This simple ingredient is used as a garnish and adds texture to your tartare. You can use black or white sesame seeds. I used the mix of two.
• Green Onions: Also known as scallions, green onions add subtle, yet noticeable flavor to your salmon. Substitute with chives if needed.
• Lemon: Lemon juice will be used to season your avocado while the zest adds flavor to the salmon.
• Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a burst of umami flavor to this dish. Substitute with Worcestershire sauce if needed.
• Avocado: Raw fish and avocado are a winning combination. Use an avocado that’s ripe but still firm.
• Salt & Pepper
• Optional Jalapeno
• Optional Cilantro

How to Make Tuna Tartare

• Cut the tuna into 1/3-inch cubes, and add them to a medium mixing bowl.
• Then add toasted sesame seeds, green onions, lemon zest, and soy sauce. Mix well. Taste one piece of tuna and add more seasonings if needed.
• Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Then slice the avocado into small cubes and add to a mixing bowl.
• Add salt, pepper, lemon juice, optional jalapeno, and cilantro. Mix until combined.
• Place a food ring mold on a plate. Add the avocado mixture at the bottom. Then add the tuna mixture on top. Gently pressing down to make sure there are no gaps.
• Lift and remove the mold gently. Garnish with more sesame seeds and cilantro. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Make sure to buy sashimi-grade tuna for this recipe. You’ll need to cut the it into about 1/3-inch cubes.
• It’s best to prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before making your tartare. DON’T mix your tuna with the other ingredients until just before serving.
• You’ll need to use a food ring mold to make your tartare into a cake shape. Remember to press everything gently so that there are no gaps in your tartare.

Is Tuna Tartare Good for You?

Tuna tartare is a relatively healthy dish due to its high protein content. Tuna is a huge source of vitamins and healthy fats, as well as enzymes that promote healthy digestion. Combined with avocado, tuna tartare is fresh and low in calories while being paleo and keto-friendly.

How Long Does Tuna Tartare Keep?

Ideally, tuna tartare should be consumed right after consumption so you can enjoy it at its freshest. If there are leftovers, try to consume them the following day. Beyond that, the texture becomes unpleasant and you lose the fresh taste that makes tartare so delicious.

What to Serve with Tuna Tartare?

Like salmon tartare, the tuna variety is often served as an appetizer, spread on top of crackers or lightly toasted bread. Tuna tartare can also be served on top of a bed of white rice.

Variations

• Spicy Tuna Tartare: Swap soy sauce for sriracha for a spicy version of this tuna tartare
• Tuna Tartare with Capers: Capers add a briny, citrusy taste to this dish. Stir in a few of them to benefit from the flavors.
• Yellowtail Tartare: Yellowtail is another fish that’s often eaten raw and it makes an excellent ingredient in tartare.