Air-Fried Ahi Tuna: Quick, Easy, Delicious Perfection

Ahi tuna, also known as yellowfin tuna, is a popular fish to cook in an air fryer. It is a lean, white fish with a mild flavour and is often used for sushi. Ahi tuna steaks can be cooked in an air fryer in under 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal for any night of the week. The high heat of the air fryer seals in moisture and flavour, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.

How to cook ahi tuna in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Ahi tuna steaks
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Soy sauce (optional)
• Honey (optional)
• Ginger (optional)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Method:

First, remove your tuna steaks from the fridge. If your tuna is frozen, it is best to thaw it overnight in the fridge or immerse it in a bowl of cold water while still in its vacuum-sealed package. You can cook tuna from frozen, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

Next, pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel. Rub or brush both sides of the tuna with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. If you want to add extra flavour, you can also brush the tuna with a marinade made from soy sauce, honey, and ginger, or olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs such as cilantro and chives.

Preheat your air fryer to between 360-400°F for 3-5 minutes. Place the tuna steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with space around each steak so that hot air can circulate freely.

Cook the tuna for 2 minutes, then flip and cook for a further 1-2 minutes for rare tuna. Increase the cooking time to 3-4 minutes for medium-rare. If you prefer your tuna well-done, cook for 12-14 minutes, checking the steak's doneness with a food thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.

Once the tuna is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Preheating the air fryer will help to achieve an even sear on the tuna.
• For a rare middle, cook the tuna while it is still cold or partially frozen.
• Choose a good-quality piece of fresh tuna for the best results.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket – cook the tuna in batches if necessary.
• Flip the steaks halfway through cooking for an even cook.
• Let the tuna rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a succulent and flavorful steak.
• Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent leftover food particles from burning and sticking.

Serving Suggestions:

Ahi tuna steaks are great served with sushi rice, nori, sesame oil, black pepper, and sliced green onion as an appetizer. They also work well in a poke bowl with sesame mayo or sriracha mayo and toppings such as fresh tropical fruit, cucumber, sprouts, toasted sesame seeds, and cold pre-steamed broccoli florets.

For a light and refreshing meal, serve the tuna steaks on a bed of mixed greens or with a fresh salad and a citrus vinaigrette. For a heartier dish, pair the tuna with roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, and a side of quinoa or roasted potatoes.

Storage:

Allow the tuna steaks to cool to room temperature, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality and freshness. It is not recommended to freeze cooked tuna steaks as this can affect their texture and flavour.

How to cook frozen ahi tuna in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Ahi tuna steaks
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Lemon juice (optional)
• Soy sauce (optional)
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Ginger (optional)
• Rice vinegar (optional)
• Honey (optional)
• Sesame oil (optional)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
• Place your frozen tuna steaks in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-4 minutes. This will help to thaw the tuna without cooking it.
• (Optional) While the tuna is thawing, prepare a marinade by mixing together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings.
• Remove the tuna steaks from the air fryer and brush both sides with the marinade. Allow the tuna to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
• Return the tuna steaks to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare tuna. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired level of doneness.
• Remove the tuna steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

• It is recommended to use wild-caught ahi tuna for the best flavor and nutrient profile.
• If you prefer your tuna steaks well-done, increase the cooking time slightly.
• For rare tuna, reduce the cooking time.
• Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking and to achieve a perfect sear on the tuna steaks.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Place the tuna steaks in a single layer with space around each steak to ensure even cooking.
• Let the tuna steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more succulent and flavorful meat.
• Tuna steaks are best enjoyed fresh, so it is not recommended to freeze leftovers as it may affect the texture and flavor of the fish.

Marinade options for ahi tuna

Ahi tuna is a versatile fish that can be paired with a variety of marinade ingredients to enhance its flavour. Here are some marinade options to consider when preparing ahi tuna in an air fryer:

Asian-Style Marinade

This marinade features a blend of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. The soy sauce and sesame oil add a savoury depth of flavour, while the honey and rice vinegar contribute a touch of sweetness and acidity. Freshly grated ginger and garlic enhance the overall flavour and provide a subtle kick. This marinade is an excellent choice for those who enjoy Asian-inspired flavours.

Zesty Herb Marinade

For a lighter and brighter option, a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, basil, oregano, and garlic powder can be prepared. The olive oil and lemon juice provide a base for the marinade, while the soy sauce adds a savoury note. The basil and oregano lend an herbal freshness, and the garlic powder contributes a subtle pungency. This marinade is perfect for those who want to highlight the natural flavour of the ahi tuna.

Ginger-Citrus Marinade

Combining lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, green onion, and soy sauce, this marinade offers a vibrant and zesty profile. The lime juice and sesame oil create a bright and aromatic base, while the garlic and green onion add depth of flavour. The soy sauce provides a savoury umami boost. This marinade is an excellent choice for those who enjoy bold, tangy flavours.

Spicy Marinade

For those who enjoy a kick of heat, a marinade of soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, honey, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper can be prepared. The soy sauce, olive oil, and lime juice create a savoury and tangy base, while the honey balances the flavours with a touch of sweetness. The cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick, and the salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavour. This marinade is perfect for those who want to add some heat to their ahi tuna.

Simple Soy Sauce Marinade

For a more straightforward option, a marinade of soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, basil, oregano, and garlic powder can be prepared. The soy sauce and olive oil provide a savoury and tangy base, while the lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note. The basil and oregano lend herbal freshness, and the garlic powder contributes a subtle pungency. This marinade is an excellent choice for those who want to enhance the natural flavour of the ahi tuna without overwhelming it.

How to serve ahi tuna

Ahi tuna is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and desired level of doneness. Here are some suggestions on how to serve ahi tuna:

Cooking Methods

Before we get into serving suggestions, it's worth noting that ahi tuna is often cooked rare to medium-rare, with a seared exterior and a creamy, raw, or pink interior. You can cook ahi tuna in an air fryer, on a grill, or in a pan. If you're using an air fryer, preheat it to between 380 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and cook the tuna for 3 to 10 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

Now, here are some ideas on how to serve ahi tuna:

• Salads: Ahi tuna pairs well with fresh, crisp salads. Try a watermelon feta salad with mint and balsamic vinegar, or a cucumber salad with feta cheese and herbs. You can also make a cherry tomato salad with fish sauce, shallots or red onion, and fresh herbs.
• Rice Dishes: Ahi tuna goes well with rice, especially jasmine rice. You can serve it with plain rice or try a rice-based dish like Japanese mushroom rice or wild rice fried rice.
• Vegetables: Green vegetables are an excellent accompaniment to ahi tuna. Try roasted or stir-fried green beans, baby bok choy, or asparagus. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers.
• Potatoes: Potato salads or roasted potatoes are a great side dish for ahi tuna. Try roasted sweet potatoes with tahini, or a baked potato with sour cream.
• Dipping Sauces: Ahi tuna can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as soy sauce, sriracha mayonnaise, or a lemon sauce.
• Fruit Salsas: Spicy mango or pineapple salsa can add a sweet and tangy contrast to the richness of the ahi tuna.
• Other Starches: If you're looking for a heartier dish, serve ahi tuna with quinoa, farro, or noodles like chow fun.
• Seafood Sides: Consider pairing ahi tuna with other seafood dishes like shrimp chow fun or crab cakes.
• Eggs: For a unique combination, try serving ahi tuna with scrambled or soft-boiled eggs.
• Cheese: Cheddar and cream cheese scones or a grilled cheese sandwich can complement the flavour of ahi tuna.
• Nuts: Pine nuts or walnuts can add a crunchy texture to your dish. Try serving ahi tuna with a green bean and walnut dish.
• Drinks: Ahi tuna is often served with wine, such as Pinot Grigio.

How to store leftover ahi tuna

Ahi tuna is a versatile fish that can be used in a variety of dishes, but it is perishable and requires proper storage. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover ahi tuna:

Storing Leftover Ahi Tuna in the Refrigerator:

• Transfer the leftover ahi tuna to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil as soon as possible. This will help maintain its quality and prevent contamination from odours or bacteria.
• Store the ahi tuna in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below.
• Consume the leftover ahi tuna within 1 to 3 days for optimal taste and quality.
• If you plan to reheat the ahi tuna, use a skillet coated with nonstick spray and heat it to a temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.

Storing Leftover Ahi Tuna in the Freezer:

• If you need to store the ahi tuna for longer than 2 days, consider freezing it. Wrap the fish tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container.
• Ahi tuna can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When you are ready to use the frozen ahi tuna, thaw it safely by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. Do not refreeze ahi tuna once it has been thawed, as this can affect its quality and safety.

Signs That Ahi Tuna Has Gone Bad:

Ahi tuna that has gone bad will develop a strong fishy odour, a slimy texture, or discolouration. If you notice any of these signs, discard the fish immediately.

Frequently asked questions