Grilled Tuna with Herbed Aioli

Grilled Tuna with Herbed Aioli Recipe from Burundi

Region / culture: Burundi | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 6 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Tuna with Herbed Aioli is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a special dinner. The combination of fresh herbs, tangy red wine vinegar, and creamy aioli creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the tuna steaks with incredible flavor. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its gourmet taste and elegant presentation.

History

Grilled tuna has been a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. Tuna is a versatile fish that can be grilled, seared, or baked, and it pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices. The addition of aioli, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish that enhances the natural flavors of the tuna. This recipe puts a modern twist on a classic dish, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of olive oil
2 tbsp of red wine vinegar
2 tbsp of chopped fresh basil
2 tsp of chopped fresh thyme
2 tsp of dried tarragon
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
0.33 cup of mayonnaise
4 x 7 oz (198 g) tuna steaks (each about 1 inch thick)

How to prepare

In a shallow dish, whisk together the first 6 ingredients to make the marinade.
Place mayonnaise in a separate small bowl.
Whisk in 1.5 tbsp of the marinade to make aioli.
Set the aioli aside.
Sprinkle salt and pepper on the fish.
Place the fish in the marinade in the dish, turning to coat evenly.
Marinate the fish at room temperature for 1 hour, turning occasionally.
Oil the grill rack.
Prepare the barbecue at medium-high heat.
Grill the fish to the desired doneness, about 3 minutes per side for medium.
Top the fish with aioli and serve.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by using different herbs in the marinade, such as parsley, cilantro, or dill. You can also add lemon zest or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the tuna for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use a hot grill to sear the tuna quickly and lock in the juices.

- Be careful not to overcook the tuna, as it can become dry and tough.

- Serve the tuna with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Tuna with Herbed Aioli with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a crusty baguette.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the tuna steaks over medium-high heat ensures that they cook quickly and evenly, while still retaining their juicy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the tuna steaks with swordfish, salmon, or mahi-mahi for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the tuna steaks in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Grilled Tuna with Herbed Aioli on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the tuna in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

400 per serving

Carbohydrates

2g per serving

Fats

25g per serving

Proteins

40g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and fish.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, and is low in carbohydrates. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option.

Summary

Grilled Tuna with Herbed Aioli is a gourmet dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a casual dinner. The combination of fresh herbs, tangy red wine vinegar, and creamy aioli creates a delicious marinade that infuses the tuna steaks with incredible flavor. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends with its gourmet taste and elegant presentation.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a sunny day in the early summer, and I had decided to take a stroll through the local farmer's market. As I walked through the aisles, admiring the fresh fruits and vegetables, I came across a small stand selling freshly caught fish. The vibrant colors of the fish caught my eye, and I couldn't resist stopping to take a closer look.

The fishmonger behind the stand was a kindly old man with a weathered face and a twinkle in his eye. As we chatted, he told me about the different types of fish he had available that day, and when he mentioned the tuna, I knew I had to try it. He recommended grilling it with a simple herbed aioli, and he even shared his recipe with me.

I thanked the fishmonger and purchased a beautiful piece of fresh tuna, along with the herbs and garlic I would need for the aioli. When I got home, I couldn't wait to try out the recipe. I carefully seasoned the tuna with salt and pepper, then grilled it to perfection. While the tuna cooked, I whipped up the aioli, blending together garlic, lemon juice, and a mixture of fresh herbs from my garden.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I was blown away by the flavors of the grilled tuna with herbed aioli. The tuna was perfectly cooked, with a smoky char on the outside and a tender, pink center. The aioli was creamy and tangy, with just the right amount of herbaceous freshness. It was a simple dish, but it was bursting with flavor and reminded me of the joys of cooking with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Since that day, grilled tuna with herbed aioli has become one of my favorite recipes to make. I have shared it with friends and family, and it always receives rave reviews. I love how the dish brings together the simplicity of grilling with the complexity of the aioli, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Over the years, I have continued to experiment with the recipe, adding new herbs and spices to the aioli or trying different marinades for the tuna. Each time I make it, I am reminded of that sunny day at the farmer's market and the kind fishmonger who shared his recipe with me. It is a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and warmth to my heart.

As I grow older, I am grateful for the memories and traditions that cooking has brought into my life. I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen, creating delicious meals to share with the ones I love. And every time I make grilled tuna with herbed aioli, I am reminded of the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and a good recipe passed down through the generations.