Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini

Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh tuna steaks with sweet apricot jam, tangy dijon mustard, and flavorful vegetables makes for a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional grilled tuna dishes that have been enjoyed for centuries. Tuna has long been a popular choice for grilling due to its firm texture and mild flavor. By adding in seasonal vegetables like corn, tomatoes, and zucchini, this recipe takes grilled tuna to the next level with a burst of fresh flavors and colors.

Ingredients

1.25 lb (567 g) tuna steaks, 1 inch thick
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
0.25 cup apricot jam
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1 ear of corn, cut into 8 equal pieces
2 tomatoes, cored and each cut into 8 equal wedges
2 medium zucchini, each quartered lengthwise and cut crosswise into 0.25 inch-thick slices
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 serrano chiles, seeded and finely chopped
4 tsp olive oil

How to prepare

Preheat the grill to medium-hot or preheat the broiler.
Season the tuna with 0.25 tsp of salt and 0.13 tsp of pepper.
In a small cup, stir together the jam and mustard.
Spread half of the jam mixture on one side of the tuna steaks.
In the center of each of four 12-inch squares of foil, place the corn, tomatoes, and zucchini, dividing them equally.
Sprinkle the garlic, remaining 0.25 tsp of salt, 0.13 tsp of pepper, chiles, and oil evenly over the vegetables.
Fold the edges of the foil over to form tightly sealed packets.
Grill or broil the tuna and foil packets 4 inches from the heat for 4 minutes.
Turn the tuna over.
Spread the remaining jam mixture on top of the tuna.
Cook until the tuna is opaque in the center and begins to flake when touched with a fork, for 4 to 6 minutes.
Carefully open the vegetable packets and serve them with the tuna.

Variations

Substitute the tuna with salmon or swordfish for a different flavor profile.
Use honey or maple syrup instead of apricot jam for a sweeter glaze.
Add in other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus for a variety of textures and flavors.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat before cooking the tuna steaks.

- Season the tuna generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

- Use foil packets to cook the vegetables alongside the tuna for a convenient and mess-free meal.

- Be careful not to overcook the tuna, as it can become dry and tough. Aim for a slightly pink center for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling and broiling are the best cooking techniques for this recipe, as they help to seal in the flavors of the tuna and vegetables while adding a smoky charred flavor. Make sure to cook the tuna to your desired level of doneness for the best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have apricot jam, you can use peach or orange marmalade as a substitute.

- Dijon mustard can be replaced with whole grain mustard or honey mustard for a different flavor profile.

- Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand in place of the corn, tomatoes, and zucchini.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the apricot jam and mustard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. The vegetables can also be prepped and stored in the foil packets in the fridge until you are ready to cook them.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini on a large platter with the foil packets opened to reveal the colorful vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a splash of citrus.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the tuna and vegetables in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 24g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 12g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 32g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 40% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains fish (tuna)

- May contain traces of mustard

Summary

Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini is a well-balanced meal that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in saturated fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato and Zucchini is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, this recipe is a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy the fresh flavors of the season!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, much like today, when I stumbled upon it at a quaint little farmer's market in the countryside. The air was filled with the sweet scent of ripe tomatoes and freshly picked corn, and I couldn't resist stopping at a stand run by a kind elderly woman selling an array of colorful vegetables.

As I browsed through her selection, my eyes landed on some plump zucchinis that immediately caught my attention. The woman smiled warmly at me and began to chat about the joys of cooking with fresh, seasonal produce. She shared with me her recipe for Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato, and Zucchini, a dish that she claimed was a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings.

Intrigued by the combination of flavors and eager to try something new, I purchased the ingredients and headed home to give it a try. Little did I know that this simple recipe would become a beloved staple in my own kitchen, passed down through the generations and cherished by my family.

The first time I made the dish, I followed the woman's instructions to a tee, carefully grilling the tuna to perfection and mixing it with the sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and tender zucchini. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was not only delicious but also visually stunning with its vibrant colors.

From that moment on, Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato, and Zucchini became a regular on our dinner table. My family raved about the dish, and I was thrilled to have discovered such a delightful recipe that showcased the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Over the years, I've made some tweaks to the recipe, adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of tanginess and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Each time I make it, I'm transported back to that sunny day at the farmer's market, chatting with the kind woman who shared her recipe with me.

As I've grown older, I've come to appreciate the importance of passing down recipes like this one to future generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, and sharing these dishes with them is a way to keep those connections strong.

I often think back to that fateful day at the farmer's market and smile, grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this wonderful recipe. It's a reminder of the beauty and joy that can be found in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal with those we love.

So, as I stand in my kitchen now, preparing Grilled Tuna with Corn, Tomato, and Zucchini for my family once again, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for the woman who shared her recipe with me all those years ago. And I hope that as my grandchildren grow older, they too will come to cherish this dish as much as I do, carrying on the tradition of cooking with love and passing down recipes from generation to generation.