What is a good seasoning for ahi tuna?

When it comes to seasoning for this ahi tuna tostada recipe , keep it simple but intentional. I use a mix of flaky sea salt, cracked black pepper, a pinch of smoked paprika, and sometimes a hint of ground cumin or chili powder. This combo builds flavor without masking the natural taste of the tuna. If you want a little more depth, try brushing on a light soy-lime glaze right before searing.

What does ahi tuna pair well with?

This ahi tuna tostada recipe pairs beautifully with fresh, zesty sides. Think citrus-based drinks, tangy slaws, or even a lightly seasoned Spanish rice. The contrast between crisp textures and creamy elements—like mashed avocado or chipotle crema—makes the dish sing. I also love pairing it with a chilled skinny paloma or a light cucumber salad.

Should I marinate ahi tuna before searing?

Yes, but don’t overdo it. For this ahi tuna tostada recipe , I recommend a short 10–15 minute marinade using lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, and olive oil. Anything longer can start to "cook" the tuna, especially with acidic ingredients. You want to preserve the rare center for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How is ahi tuna best cooked?

For tostadas, ahi tuna is best cooked with a quick, high-heat sear —no more than 45 seconds per side. The goal is a lightly cooked exterior with a cool, rare center. That contrast of seared edge and tender middle is what takes this ahi tuna tostada recipe from good to unforgettable.

Ahi Tuna Tostada Recipe: 5 Bold Flavors in Every Crunch

Description

Crispy corn tortillas layered with creamy avocado, crunchy slaw, and perfectly seared ahi tuna, drizzled with smoky chipotle crema.

Ingredients

Scale

2 sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks
6 small corn tortillas
1 ripe avocado
1 cup shredded cabbage
Juice of 1 lime
1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 tsp chipotle powder
1 tbsp olive oil
Sea salt and cracked black pepper
Optional: cilantro, jalapeños, pickled onions

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat oil in a skillet and fry tortillas until golden and crisp. Drain and salt.
Mix sour cream, lime juice, and chipotle powder for crema. Set aside.
Mash avocado with lime juice and salt. Shred cabbage and prep toppings.
Season tuna with oil, salt, pepper, and optional chili powder.
Sear tuna over high heat for 30–45 seconds per side. Rest, then slice thin.
Assemble tostadas: avocado, slaw, sliced tuna, and drizzle crema. Top as desired.

Notes

Use sushi-grade tuna for best results. Don’t over-marinate—10 minutes max.
Sear on very high heat for a clean rare center. Let tuna rest before slicing.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Seared
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tostada
Calories: 290 kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 35mg