Tasty Tuna Air Fryer: Quick, Easy, And Healthy!

Tuna is a versatile fish that can be cooked in many ways, and air frying is one of the best methods to prepare it. Air-fried tuna is not only delicious but also healthy and easy to make. Whether you're cooking tuna steaks or making tuna patties, an air fryer can help you achieve the perfect level of doneness without the mess and hassle of traditional frying methods.

One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is the reduced need for oil. Air-frying tuna results in a dish that is lower in fat and calories compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier option. Additionally, air fryers cook food quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for busy weeknights.

When preparing tuna in an air fryer, it's important to consider the type of tuna and your desired level of doneness. For tuna steaks, look for thick, meaty slices, and adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your preference. For tuna patties, you can use canned tuna or fresh tuna, and the addition of breadcrumbs and eggs helps bind the mixture together.

In conclusion, air-fried tuna is a tasty and nutritious dish that can be easily prepared in an air fryer. With its convenience, health benefits, and ability to produce delicious results, it's no wonder that air-frying tuna has become a popular choice for home cooks.

Tuna steak in an air fryer

Cooking tuna steak in an air fryer is a quick, simple, and delicious way to enjoy this fish. The air fryer method provides a perfect, even sear, encapsulating the juices and flavours within the steak. It also boasts speed and simplicity, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality tuna steak at home with minimal fuss and cleanup.

Ingredients and Preparation

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• Tuna steak fresh or frozen
• Olive oil or sesame oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Soy sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and sesame seeds

Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to around 360-400°F (180-200°C). The higher temperatures will give your tuna steak a more pronounced sear.

While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your tuna steak. Pat the steak dry with a paper towel, then drizzle or brush it with olive oil or sesame oil. Sprinkle or rub in salt and pepper on both sides, and if you like, add other seasonings like soy sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and garlic powder.

Cooking

Place the tuna steak into the air fryer basket, ensuring it is in a single layer with space around it for even cooking.

Cooking time will depend on your desired level of doneness and the thickness of your tuna steak. As a guide, for a 1-inch thick steak:

• Rare: Cook for 3-4 minutes in total (2 minutes on one side, then 1-2 minutes on the other)
• Medium-rare: Cook for 4-5 minutes in total (2 minutes on each side)
• Medium: Cook for 5-6 minutes in total (2-3 minutes on each side)
• Well-done: Cook for 6-7 minutes in total (3 minutes on each side)

For rare to medium-rare tuna, aim for an internal temperature of 115-125°F (46-52°C). For well-done, target an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C).

Serving

Unlike red meat, tuna steak does not need to rest after cooking. Slice and serve immediately.

Tuna steak pairs well with a variety of sides, including:

• Salad (mixed greens or fresh salad) with a citrus vinaigrette
• Roasted or grilled vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers)
• Quinoa or roasted potatoes
• Rice (cauliflower, brown, or white)
• Avocado
• Green beans, broccoli, or sautéed veggies

For an extra flavour boost, you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of soy sauce, lime juice, or wasabi mayonnaise.

Tips

• If using frozen tuna steak, ensure it is completely defrosted before air frying.
• Preheating the air fryer for about 5 minutes helps achieve a more even sear on the tuna steak.
• Pat the tuna steak dry before applying any marinade or seasoning to help it adhere better and promote even browning.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Place the tuna steak in a single layer with space around it to allow hot air to circulate freely, ensuring even cooking.
• Flip the steak halfway through the cooking time to get an even cook and a perfect sear on both sides.

Final Thoughts

With its speed, convenience, and ability to produce a perfectly cooked tuna steak, the air fryer is an excellent choice for preparing this delicious dish. Enjoy your restaurant-quality tuna steak, made with ease and simplicity in the comfort of your own home!

Tuna patties in an air fryer

Tuna patties are a great, healthy option to make in an air fryer. They are simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients, and can be served in a variety of ways. Here is a detailed recipe for tuna patties in an air fryer, followed by some tips and tricks to elevate your tuna patty experience.

Ingredients

• 15 oz (425 g) canned albacore tuna, drained (or 1 lb/454 g fresh tuna, diced)
• 2-3 large eggs
• Zest of 1 medium lemon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup (55 g) breadcrumbs
• 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp minced onion
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried herbs (oregano, dill, basil, thyme, or any combination)
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• Optional: ranch, tartar sauce, mayo, or lemon slices for serving

Method

• Combine the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, celery, onion, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir the mixture to ensure everything is combined.
• Gently fold in the tuna until just combined.
• Use an ice cream scoop to keep the sizes consistent, and flatten out the tuna patties into a round shape. You should get about 10 patties that are about 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
• Brush or spray the patties with oil.
• Place the patties in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
• Air fry at 360°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray the tops again after flipping.
• Serve with your favorite sauce and lemon slices.

Tips and Tricks

• If the mixture seems too dry, add another egg.
• If the patties are too soft to handle, chill them for about an hour, or until firm.
• For gluten-free tuna patties, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds.
• For keto or low-carb tuna patties, substitute the breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese, almond flour, or crushed pork rinds.
• To prevent sticking, line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly spray with olive oil or cooking spray.
• For an extra crispy crust, spritz the patties with olive oil after flipping.
• You can freeze uncooked tuna patties. Place them on a cookie sheet until frozen, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your air-fried tuna patties!

Tuna cakes in an air fryer

Tuna cakes, or tuna patties, are a great, healthy meal to cook in an air fryer. They are easy to make, require minimal oil, and are versatile. You can use canned or fresh tuna, and you can season them in a variety of ways to suit your taste.

Ingredients

You will need:

• Canned tuna (or fresh tuna, diced)
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Lemon zest (optional)
• Spices and herbs of your choice (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, paprika, oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Parchment paper (optional)

Method

• Drain the can of tuna and add it to a bowl. Break apart any large chunks with a fork.
• Add the egg(s) and breadcrumbs to the bowl, along with your chosen spices and herbs. Mix until everything is combined.
• Form the mixture into balls, then flatten them into patties. You can use an ice cream scoop to keep the sizes consistent.
• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper, or brush/spray it with oil to prevent sticking.
• Place the tuna patties in the basket and brush the tops with olive oil.
• Air fry at 360°F for 6 minutes, then flip the patties and brush the other side with oil. Air fry for another 4-6 minutes until golden brown.
• Remove from the air fryer and serve.

Tips

• You can serve the tuna cakes with a sauce, such as chipotle mayo, honey mustard BBQ sauce, or sriracha mayo.
• They go well with a salad, or with air fryer green beans and bacon, or Mediterranean vegetables.
• If you want to add some spice, try adding red pepper flakes or Tajin.
• For Moroccan-style tuna cakes, season with harissa and lemon zest.
• If you prefer Italian flavours, use Italian seasoning, dried basil, or dried oregano.
• To make the patties firmer, place them in the refrigerator for a few minutes before cooking.
• If you are using fresh tuna, the amount of egg you need will depend on the dryness of the tuna and the absorption of the breadcrumbs. Start with 2 eggs, and add a third if the mixture seems too dry.
• To store leftovers, cool and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer, oven, or microwave.

Tuna melts in an air fryer

Tuna melts are a popular comfort food, and an air fryer is a great way to cook them. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to making tuna melts in an air fryer.

Ingredients:

• Canned tuna (preferably in water)
• Mayonnaise
• Bread (sourdough, rye, white, or whole wheat)
• Butter
• Cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, American, or provolone)
• Optional: red onion, celery, dijon mustard, relish, black pepper, lemon juice

Method:

• Drain the canned tuna and break it up with a fork.
• Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, sweet relish, mustard, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
• Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
• Place two slices of cheese on each slice of bread.
• Add about 1/2 cup of the tuna salad on top of the bread.
• Cover with the other slice of bread, buttered side up.
• Place the tuna melt sandwich in the air fryer basket.
• Cook at 380-400°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Serve hot with chips, pickles, or a cup of soup.

Tips:

• Use good-quality, fresh bread for the best results.
• If you don't like mayonnaise, you can use plain yogurt or mashed avocado instead.
• You can add extra ingredients to the tuna mixture, such as finely diced celery or scallions, to enhance the flavour and texture.
• If you want a crispier sandwich, preheat your air fryer before adding the sandwich.
• Layer the cheese slices next to the bread to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
• If making multiple sandwiches, ensure they are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.

Tuna steaks without marinating

I recommend using wild-caught ahi tuna (yellowfin tuna) for this recipe. Wild-caught fish tends to be more flavoursome and nutritious.

How to cook frozen tuna steaks in an air fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
• Cook the frozen tuna steaks for 3 minutes.
• Make the marinade with soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
• Remove the tuna from the air fryer and place it in the marinade for at least 10 minutes.
• Place the marinated tuna steaks back into the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
• Let the tuna steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to cook tuna steaks without marinating

• Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
• Brush the sauce on both sides of the tuna steaks.
• Place the steaks in the air fryer and cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness.
• Once cooked, carefully remove the tuna steaks from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Tips for success

• Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes before cooking.
• Pat the tuna steaks dry before brushing on the sauce.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Place the steaks in a single layer with space around each piece.
• Flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
• Let the steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent leftover food particles from burning and sticking.

Frequently asked questions