Air Fryer Tuna Steak: The Perfect Quick Dinner

Tuna steaks are a great, healthy meal that can be cooked in an air fryer in under 15 minutes. The air fryer method is faster and less messy than pan-searing or oven-baking, and it also prevents overcooking. The cooking time depends on the desired level of doneness, with rare tuna taking around 5 minutes and well-done tuna taking around 10 minutes.

How to get the perfect tuna steak doneness

There are a few key steps to achieving the perfect tuna steak doneness in your air fryer. The first is to select a good-quality, thick tuna steak—this is essential if you're aiming for restaurant-style tuna. The next step is to prepare your tuna for cooking. This involves patting the steak dry with a paper towel and then coating it with your chosen seasonings, oils, or marinade.

Once your tuna is prepared, it's time to preheat your air fryer. Preheating ensures an even cook and a perfect sear on your tuna. Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to between 360°F and 400°F (or 200°C) for around 3–5 minutes.

Now it's time to cook your tuna. The cooking time will depend on your desired level of doneness and the specifications of your air fryer. As a general guide, cook your tuna for around 2 minutes per side for a medium-rare steak, adding or subtracting time as needed. For a rare steak, aim for an internal temperature of 110°F–115°F, and for a well-done steak, ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F. It's important to keep a close eye on your tuna as it cooks, as overcooked tuna can become dry and unappealing.

Finally, once your tuna is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent and flavorful steak.

Tips for Success:

• Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your favorite flavor combinations.
• If using a marinade, allow your tuna to marinate for at least 10–15 minutes, but no more than 4–6 hours, to avoid the fish becoming soggy and chewy.
• Don't overcrowd your air fryer basket. Place the steaks in a single layer with space around each piece for even cooking.
• Flip your steaks halfway through the cooking time to achieve an even cook on both sides.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your tuna and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Marinade ideas for your tuna steak

Tuna steaks are a great way to add variety to your meals, offering a meaty texture and mild flavour. Here are some marinade ideas for your tuna steak:

Asian-Style Marinade

For an Asian twist, you can marinate your tuna steak in a mix of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This combination adds a nice tanginess to the tuna and pairs well with its meaty flavour. You can also add in some brown sugar or honey to balance out the saltiness of the soy sauce.

Lemon and Parsley Marinade

Sometimes, less is more. A simple marinade of fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley can elevate your tuna steak to gourmet levels with minimal effort. The lemon juice adds a tangy flavour that cuts through the richness of the tuna.

Mediterranean Marinade

For a Mediterranean flair, season your tuna steak with a mix of dried rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of oregano. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This marinade will give your tuna a vibrant, herby flavour.

Salsa Fresca Marinade

Top your tuna steak with a homemade salsa fresca. Chop up some ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapenos, and squeeze in some lime juice. This topping adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your tuna steak.

Soy Sauce and Ginger Marinade

For a classic Asian-inspired marinade, combine soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This marinade will give your tuna steak a delicious savoury flavour with a hint of sweetness from the soy sauce.

Additional Tips

When preparing your tuna steak, remember to pat it dry before applying the marinade to ensure the flavours adhere well. Also, allow the tuna to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavours. If you have time, you can even marinate it for up to 30 minutes for a more intense flavour.

How to tell when your tuna steak is done

There are several ways to tell when your tuna steak is done. Firstly, you can use a meat or instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the tuna. The ideal internal temperature will depend on your desired level of doneness, which can range from rare to well-done. Here is a general temperature guide for cooking tuna steak:

• Rare: 110-115°F
• Medium-Rare: 125-130°F
• Medium: 135-145°F
• Well-Done: Above 145°F

It's worth noting that the FDA recommends cooking all raw fish to an internal temperature of 145°F to prevent foodborne illness. However, some people prefer their tuna steak rare or medium-rare, which is safe to consume if the fish has been previously frozen or certified as fresh and suitable for raw consumption by a reputable fishmonger.

Another way to tell if your tuna steak is done is by observing its colour and texture. For a rare steak, the tuna will be seared on the outside but raw and very moist in the centre. A medium steak will be light pink in the centre and meaty, while a well-done steak will be firm and dry with little moisture.

Additionally, you can also check the doneness of your tuna steak by observing the cooking time. In an air fryer, tuna steaks are typically cooked for 2-3 minutes on each side for a total of 4-6 minutes for a medium-rare steak. Increasing the cooking time to 8-10 minutes will result in a well-done steak. However, it's important to keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on your desired level of doneness and the model of your air fryer.

How to reheat leftover tuna steak

Reheating leftover tuna steak in an air fryer is a great way to ensure your tuna doesn't dry out and remains tasty. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to a high temperature of around 400°F (200°C). This will help to create a sear on the tuna steak and ensure even cooking. Allow the air fryer to heat up for a few minutes before adding the tuna.

Prepare the Tuna Steak

Take your leftover tuna steak out of the fridge and bring it to room temperature. Pat the tuna steak dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is important as it will help the tuna cook evenly and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Place the Tuna Steak in the Air Fryer

Place the tuna steak in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is not overcrowded. Leave some space around the steak to allow hot air to circulate freely, which will result in even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook one steak at a time.

Reheat the Tuna Steak

For medium-rare tuna, cook the steak for around 2 minutes on each side. If you prefer your tuna more well-done, increase the cooking time to 3 minutes on each side. Keep in mind that air fryers can vary, so adjust the timing as needed. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak if you are unsure.

Let the Tuna Steak Rest

Once the tuna steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute within the steak, making it more succulent and flavorful.

Serve and Enjoy

Your leftover tuna steak is now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve it as-is or slice it into smaller pieces. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Drizzle with lemon juice or your favorite sauce for added flavor.

Remember, when reheating tuna steak in an air fryer, it's important not to overcook it, as this can make the tuna dry and rubbery. Keep an eye on the steak during the reheating process and adjust the timing as needed to achieve your desired level of doneness. Enjoy your delicious and perfectly reheated tuna steak!

What to serve with your tuna steak

Tuna steaks are a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to elevate your meal. Here are some ideas to complement the flavours and textures of your tuna steak:

Salads and Vegetables

A green salad is always a refreshing option to accompany your tuna steak. To make it more interesting, you could try a cherry tomato salad with a simple dressing of fish sauce, shallots or red onion, and fresh herbs. Alternatively, a baby bok choy stir-fry or roasted green beans with walnuts will add a crunchy texture and a vibrant colour to your plate. If you're feeling creative, you can also try smashed cucumbers—a unique take on the traditional cucumber salad where you smash the cucumbers with a knife before chopping them into pieces and tossing them in a vinaigrette dressing.

Rice and Grains

Rice is a great choice to accompany the tuna steak, especially if you're looking for something with an Asian twist. Try serving it with steamed jasmine rice or Japanese mushroom rice cooked in a rice cooker with butter and sesame oil. If you want to go beyond rice, wild rice fried rice is a tasty alternative, and quinoa or roasted potatoes will also make a well-rounded meal.

Beans

Tuna and beans are a classic combination, especially white beans in the Tuscan style, known as "beans 'n greens." This dish is simple yet satisfying, pairing canned cannelini beans with sauteed escarole, a leafy green vegetable from the chicory family.

Fruits and Sauces

A spicy mango or pineapple salsa can add a burst of flavour to your tuna steak. Alternatively, a drizzle of lemon juice or a lemon and parsley garnish will provide a tangy freshness. For something a little different, try a soy sauce-based sauce with toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger for an Asian-inspired twist.

Other Sides

If you're looking for something more substantial, roasted cauliflower rice or shrimp chow fun (a type of noodle dish) can be great choices. Korean BBQ mushrooms, with their sweet and salty flavours, will also pair nicely with the tuna.

Remember, when choosing sides, consider the cooking method and seasoning of your tuna steak. Aim for sides that will complement rather than overwhelm, and don't be afraid to experiment with different flavours and cuisines!

Frequently asked questions