Spicy Tuna Tataki with Avocado Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Sear-tender tuna steak served with a vibrant avocado salsa, featuring a kick of jalapeño and fresh lime. This japanese-inspired seafood (high-protein, gluten-free) ready in about 20 minutes blends Tuna steak, medium Avocado, Red onion into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 5 min Serves 2 Japanese cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 1 lb sushi-grade tuna steak with 1/4 tsp black pepper and 1/2 tbsp soy sauce. Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
  2. Step 2: Sear tuna for 1 minute per side for medium-rare; remove from pan and let rest for 5 minutes.
  3. Step 3: While tuna rests, combine 1 medium diced avocado, 2 tbsp finely diced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, juice of 1 lime, 1/2 seeded and minced jalapeño, and 1 tsp sesame oil in a bowl.
  4. Step 4: Slice rested tuna thinly against the grain. Serve immediately with avocado salsa spooned over the top.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Spicy Tuna Tataki with Avocado Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (15 min prep + 5 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Spicy Tuna Tataki with Avocado Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Spicy Tuna Tataki with Avocado Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Spicy Tuna Tataki with Avocado Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Spicy Tuna Tataki with Avocado Salsa high-protein?

Yes — this recipe is tagged high-protein, gluten-free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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