Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse features perfectly seared ahi tuna atop a vibrant bed of mixed greens, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and crisp cucumbers, all drizzled with a tangy citrus vinaigrette for a fresh and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl (for vinaigrette)
- Whisk
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) ahi tuna steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 5 oz (140g) mixed salad greens
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup cucumber
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- For Citrus Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
To achieve the best flavor and texture for your Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad, use fresh, sushi-grade ahi tuna and ripe avocado. Make sure to lightly sear the tuna in a hot non-stick skillet or grill pan using a combination of olive oil and sesame oil for a perfect crust without overcooking. For the citrus vinaigrette, freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices provide bright acidity that balances the richness of the tuna and avocado. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, so avoid skipping this step to maintain authentic flavor and texture. Your copycat menu version of the Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse will shine when every ingredient is fresh and properly prepared.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Pat the ahi tuna steak dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Brush tuna with olive oil and sesame oil on all sides.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over high heat.
- Sear ahi tuna for 1-2 minutes per side (for rare); remove from heat and let rest.
- In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, rice vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard for the vinaigrette.
- Whisk in extra-virgin olive oil until emulsified.
- Season vinaigrette with salt and black pepper.
- Slice avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- In a salad bowl, toss mixed greens with sliced vegetables.
- Drizzle salad with citrus vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Slice seared ahi tuna into 1/4-inch strips.
- Arrange salad on serving plates.
- Top each salad with sliced ahi tuna and avocado.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad from BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse copycat menu can be easily adapted if you don't have ahi tuna on hand; try substituting with yellowfin or albacore tuna steaks for a similar texture and flavor. If fresh mixed greens are unavailable, spinach or arugula make excellent alternatives that provide a nutrient-rich base. Your vinaigrette can be modified using lime juice instead of orange or lemon for a different citrus twist. When grilling isn't possible, searing the tuna in a non-stick skillet is a reliable method to maintain the perfect crust. For those avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a natural sweetener in the dressing.
Tips
When searing the ahi tuna steak, ensure the skillet is extremely hot to achieve a perfect sear without overcooking the inside, aiming for 1-2 minutes per side for rare doneness. Patting the tuna dry before seasoning helps the oil and spices adhere better, enhancing flavor and texture. Your citrus vinaigrette requires whisking the olive oil gradually into the acidic ingredients to create a smooth, emulsified dressing that coats the salad evenly. Slice the tuna thinly against the grain for tender, easy-to-eat pieces that complement the fresh mixed greens and creamy avocado.
Nutritions
The Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad from BJ's offers a nutrient-rich combination of lean protein from ahi tuna, heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from avocado and olive oil, and a high fiber content from mixed greens and fresh vegetables. The citrus vinaigrette, made with fresh orange and lemon juice, delivers vitamin C and antioxidants while using minimal added sugars. Toasted sesame seeds add a boost of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. This balanced meal supports your energy needs and overall wellness with each flavorful bite.
Storage
Store leftover seared ahi tuna separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent the spread of odors. Keep the mixed greens, avocado, and vegetables in a separate container to avoid sogginess, and refrigerate your homemade citrus vinaigrette in a sealed jar. When ready to enjoy your Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad, combine all components just before serving to preserve the dish's texture and vibrant flavors.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the ahi tuna with seared salmon or grilled shrimp for a different protein option while maintaining the fresh, seafood flavor. Incorporate radishes or julienned carrots to add extra crunch and color to your mixed greens. Try adding a teaspoon of grated ginger or a splash of soy sauce to the citrus vinaigrette for an Asian-inspired twist. For cooking, using a cast iron skillet can create a slightly crispier sear on the tuna, enhancing texture without sacrificing tenderness.
Allergies
Your Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad contains potential allergens such as sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, and Dijon mustard, which may cause reactions in individuals with sesame or mustard allergies. The ahi tuna poses a risk for those with fish allergies, and the salad's dressing includes honey, which should be avoided by people with pollen or bee product sensitivities. Always inform restaurant staff of your specific allergies to ensure safe meal preparation.
Why this recipe?
Enlightened Seared Ahi Salad at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse stands out for its perfect balance of fresh, seared ahi tuna paired with crisp organic greens and a vibrant ginger-soy vinaigrette. The high-quality, protein-rich ahi combined with nutrient-dense vegetables makes it a satisfying yet healthy choice for diners seeking a light but flavorful meal. Your copycat version can capture the restaurant's appeal by focusing on fresh ingredients and the signature tangy dressing that enhances the dish's savory and refreshing flavors. Replicating this salad offers a delicious way to enjoy a restaurant favorite at home without compromising on taste or nutrition.