Maui Tuna Crunch Salad from Seasons 52 features seared ahi tuna atop a vibrant mix of crisp greens, crunchy almonds, fresh mango, and crunchy wonton strips, all tossed in a zesty sesame-ginger dressing, offering a refreshing combination of textures and bold tropical flavors.
Equipments
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Salad spinner
- Tongs
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Plate (for serving)
- Small whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 6 oz ahi tuna steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Mixed baby greens (about 5 cups)
- 1/2 cup fresh mango, diced
- 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- Salt
- Black pepper
- For Sesame-Ginger Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Ahi tuna steak should be fresh and sushi-grade for the best flavor and texture in your Maui Tuna Crunch Salad. Use ripe mangoes that are sweet but firm to provide a perfect balance to the crunchy almonds and wonton strips. Toast sliced almonds lightly to enhance their aroma and crunch, while ensuring wonton strips remain crispy by adding them just before serving. The sesame-ginger dressing combines soy sauce, rice vinegar, and fresh ginger for a zesty boldness, so measure these ingredients precisely to maintain balance. Your Maui Tuna Crunch Salad from Seasons 52 will deliver vibrant tropical flavors and varied textures when made with these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- **Instructions:**
- Pat dry ahi tuna steak and season with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in non-stick skillet or grill pan over high heat.
- Sear ahi tuna for 1–2 minutes per side until desired doneness; let rest, then slice thinly.
- Prepare sesame-ginger dressing: whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, ginger, garlic, vegetable oil, and toasted sesame seeds in a small bowl.
- Rinse and dry mixed greens using salad spinner.
- In large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, shredded carrots, diced mango, sliced scallions, toasted almonds, and wonton strips.
- Add sesame-ginger dressing to salad and toss gently with tongs to coat evenly.
- Plate dressed salad mixture.
- Arrange sliced seared tuna and avocado slices on top of salad.
- Sprinkle black sesame seeds over dish.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Maui Tuna Crunch Salad from Seasons 52 copycat menu offers a refreshing blend of seared ahi tuna, crisp greens, and tropical flavors enhanced by crunchy almonds and wonton strips. You can substitute ahi tuna with yellowfin or albacore tuna if unavailable, making sure to sear the fish quickly to maintain a tender center. If fresh mango is out of season, ripe papaya or pineapple can provide a similar sweet and juicy element. Toasted almonds may be replaced with cashews or macadamia nuts to maintain the crunchy texture while adding a distinct but complementary flavor. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the dressing, ensuring your salad remains flavorful and safe for sensitive diets.
Tips
Make sure to pat dry the ahi tuna steak thoroughly before seasoning to ensure a perfect sear without steaming. Use a hot non-stick skillet or grill pan to achieve a quick, even sear, cooking the tuna 1-2 minutes per side depending on your preferred doneness. Rinse and spin the mixed greens dry carefully to prevent a soggy salad, preserving the crisp texture you want. Your sesame-ginger dressing should be whisked thoroughly to combine all ingredients for a balanced flavor that coats the salad evenly.
Nutritions
The Maui Tuna Crunch Salad provides a nutrient-rich meal featuring ahi tuna, an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. The mixed baby greens and fresh mango contribute antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber to support your immune system and digestion. Crunchy toasted almonds add healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, while the avocado supplies additional heart-healthy fats and potassium. The sesame-ginger dressing enhances the salad with anti-inflammatory compounds from ginger and garlic, offering a flavorful boost without excessive calories.
Storage
Store leftover Maui Tuna Crunch Salad without dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day to maintain freshness. Keep seared tuna separate from the salad greens to prevent sogginess, and add the sesame-ginger dressing just before serving to preserve crispness. Your avocado slices may brown quickly, so consider storing them separately with a squeeze of lime juice to slow oxidation.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the ahi tuna with grilled salmon or seared tofu for a different protein while maintaining the dish's fresh appeal. Swap fresh mango for pineapple or papaya to add a unique tropical twist to the salad's flavor profile. Try baking wonton strips with a light sprinkle of chili powder to create a spicier crunch, enhancing the texture contrast. For the dressing, replacing honey with agave nectar can offer a subtle variation in sweetness, catering to different dietary preferences.
Allergies
The Maui Tuna Crunch Salad contains common allergens such as fish (ahi tuna) and tree nuts (toasted sliced almonds), which may trigger reactions for individuals sensitive to these ingredients. The sesame-ginger dressing introduces sesame seeds and soy sauce, both known allergens that can cause adverse effects. If you have allergies to seafood, nuts, soy, or sesame, it's important to communicate these to avoid potential allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Maui Tuna Crunch Salad from Seasons 52 is loved for its fresh, sashimi-grade tuna paired with crisp greens and a zesty, citrusy dressing that perfectly balances flavors. The salad incorporates unique textures from crunchy wonton strips and creamy avocado, enhancing each bite's appeal. Your palate will appreciate the vibrant colors and the healthy, nutrient-rich ingredients making it a refreshing and satisfying choice. Attempting a copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this gourmet experience at home, maintaining quality and freshness without a restaurant visit.