Ahi Tuna Tartare from Seasons 52 features fresh, diced ahi tuna tossed with avocado, sesame seeds, and a zesty soy-lime dressing, served atop crisp wonton chips for a vibrant and refreshing appetizer.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk (for dressing)
- Baking sheet (for wonton chips, if homemade)
- Parchment paper (for baking wonton chips)
- Slotted spoon (optional, for serving)
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) sushi-grade ahi tuna
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Wonton wrappers (for chips)
- Vegetable oil (for frying or brushing wonton chips)
Ensure you select sushi-grade ahi tuna for the freshest and safest tartare experience, as regular tuna may not be suitable for raw consumption. A ripe avocado is essential to provide a creamy texture that balances the zesty soy-lime dressing made from soy sauce, fresh lime juice, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Incorporate both black and white sesame seeds along with finely chopped green onions and cilantro to enhance the aroma and add crunch and color to your dish. When making wonton chips, use fresh wonton wrappers and either fry them or bake on parchment paper until crisp to serve as a crunchy base. Your Ahi Tuna Tartare from Seasons 52 copycat menu will delight with vibrant flavors and refreshing textures.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking wonton chips.
- Cut wonton wrappers into triangles.
- Place wonton triangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly brush wonton triangles with vegetable oil.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes or until golden and crisp, then let cool.
- Dice the ahi tuna into small, even cubes.
- Dice the avocado into small cubes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey.
- Add grated ginger, green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, and sriracha (if using) to the dressing.
- Season dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine diced tuna and avocado in a mixing bowl.
- Pour dressing over the tuna and avocado mixture.
- Gently toss to combine with a spoon or spatula.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer tartare onto a serving platter.
- Arrange crisp wonton chips around or under the tartare.
- Garnish with additional green onion, cilantro, or sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Ahi Tuna Tartare from Seasons 52 copycat recipes often allow flexibility with the type of tuna used; if sushi-grade ahi tuna is unavailable, you can substitute with yellowfin or even fresh, high-quality salmon for a similar texture and flavor profile. When preparing the wonton chips, you can bake them instead of frying for a healthier option, using vegetable oil brushed lightly on the chips before baking on parchment paper. If you don't have fresh lime juice, bottled lime or lemon juice can work, but the fresh juice provides the best citrus brightness to the soy-lime dressing. Your avocado should be ripe but firm to maintain texture when diced, and adding more sriracha or chili sauce will increase the heat if you prefer a spicier tartare. Be sure to use a sharp chef's knife for clean cuts on the tuna to preserve its delicate texture and appearance.
Tips
Use only sushi-grade ahi tuna to ensure freshness and safety when consuming raw fish. When dicing the avocado and tuna, aim for uniform, small cubes to achieve the desired texture and balanced flavor in each bite. Whisk the dressing ingredients thoroughly to blend the soy sauce, lime juice, and honey, creating a harmonious balance between tangy, sweet, and savory notes that enhance the tuna. If frying wonton chips, maintain the oil temperature around 350degF (175degC) to prevent greasy chips and achieve a golden crisp; if baking, watch closely to avoid burning.
Nutritions
Ahi Tuna Tartare is rich in lean protein, providing essential amino acids that support muscle repair and growth. The avocado contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, which aid in digestion and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Sesame seeds add a boost of calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants that promote bone health and reduce inflammation. Your dish also contains vitamin C from lime juice and ginger's natural anti-inflammatory properties, making this appetizer both nutritious and flavorful.
Storage
To keep your Ahi Tuna Tartare fresh, store the prepared tartare in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 24 hours for optimal flavor and safety. Avoid mixing the wonton chips with the tartare during storage to maintain their crisp texture; store them separately at room temperature in an airtight container. If you made the tartare ahead, add avocado just before serving to prevent browning and preserve the vibrant appearance.
Variation or Alternatives
Substitute sushi-grade salmon or scallops for ahi tuna to offer a different texture and flavor profile. Swap the wonton chips with crispy seaweed sheets or plantain chips for a gluten-free option. You can replace the soy-lime dressing with a citrus-miso vinaigrette to introduce a sweeter, umami-rich taste. When mixing the tartare, gently fold in finely diced mango or cucumber to add a refreshing crunch and subtle sweetness to your dish.
Allergies
Ahi Tuna Tartare contains several common allergens including soy from soy sauce and sesame seeds, which can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The presence of fish (ahi tuna) is another potent allergen that may trigger symptoms ranging from mild itching to severe anaphylaxis. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it is important to avoid this dish or discuss modifications with your server to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Ahi Tuna Tartare from Seasons 52 dazzles with its fresh, sushi-grade yellowfin tuna, delicately diced and tossed in a flavorful blend of soy, sesame oil, and fresh herbs. The dish offers a perfect balance of textures, combining creamy avocado with crisp crunchy elements for an exciting mouthfeel. It's worth trying to make the copycat at home because you can customize the flavors to your taste while enjoying a restaurant-quality appetizer without leaving your kitchen. Your palate will appreciate the vibrant, clean taste and the nutritious boost from omega-3 rich tuna.