Fresh & Fast Ahi Tuna Tacos Recipe with Salsa Verde

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If you’re looking for a quick, high-protein dish that feels like a culinary treat, you’ve got to try these ahi tuna tacos. They're fresh, easy to whip up, and perfect for those busy days when you want something healthy without a lot of fuss.

The Perfect Fusion of Flavors

Imagine biting into a taco that perfectly balances the freshness of raw Ahi tuna, the boldness of Mexican spices, and the umami of Japanese sauces. This dish is a colorful celebration of flavor and texture. The bright red taco shells are the ideal backdrop for the tender tuna, while the zesty salsa verde provides a refreshing contrast.

The marinade, made of ponzu, soy sauce, and sesame oil, enhances the natural sweetness of the tuna. When topped with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, these tacos become not only delectable but visually striking. According to a 2022 survey, 80% of people said that visually appealing meals taste better. These tacos check both boxes.

Ingredients You'll Need

Gather these ingredients to make mouthwatering Ahi Tuna Tacos:

For the Ahi Tuna:

• 2 Steak sushi-grade Ahi tuna, diced into small cubes

• 1 tbsp ponzu sauce

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp ginger paste or finely minced ginger

• Sesame seeds for garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (about ¼ cup)

• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

• Scallions (optional, but I love onions, so why not!)

For the Salsa Verde:

• A good handful of fresh cilantro

• 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped (adjust to your heat preference)

• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled

• Half a white onion

• Hatch chile

• 2 Tomatillos (green tomatoes)

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt to taste

  
  

For the Tacos:

• Red taco shells or tostadas, I had both, but wanted to create a deep shell to hold the tuna.

  
  

Preparing the Ahi Tuna

To start, you’ll need to mix one tablespoon of ponzu sauce, two tablespoons of soy sauce, and one tablespoon of sesame seed oil. Garnish the mix with sesame seeds, and add a little chopped cilantro, plus some finely diced red onions, shallots, or chives for that oniony kick. Don’t forget a dab of ginger paste to give it a bit of zing. That’s your flavorful sauce for the raw ahi tuna.

Salsa Verde Base

Next, you’ll roast a Hatch Chile, and jalapeño, some white onions, and two tomatillos. Once they’re roasted, blend them up with a bit of cilantro, avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice to create a smooth, vibrant salsa verde. This will be the base layer in your taco.

Assembling Your Tacos

Once the tuna has marinated and the salsa verde is ready, it’s time to build your tacos!

1. Take a red taco shell and fill it generously with the salsa verde first.

   
   

2. Place your marinated ahi tuna on top, garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a bit more cilantro, and you’re done. It’s a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for when you’re busy but still want something special.

   
   

3. Repeat for as many tacos as you wish!

   
   

A close-up view of a vibrant red taco filled with Ahi tuna and garnished with cilantro.

Flavor Pairing Ideas

These Ahi Tuna Tacos shine as a centerpiece for a casual dinner or a lively family meal. Serve with extra salsa verde on the side for those who enjoy a little more zing. Complement them with a refreshing drink, like a cucumber margarita (made with fresh cucumber juice) or a crisp light sake.

For a well-rounded meal, consider placing a side of Mexican street corn next to your tacos. The combination of creamy, cheesy corn with the fresh flavors of the tacos creates a delightful dining experience that is sure to impress.

Tips for the Best Tacos

• Select Fresh Tuna: Always choose the freshest Ahi tuna you can find. Look for sushi-grade options for the best flavor and safety.

  
  

• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get inventive with toppings. Consider adding sliced radishes for crunch, pickled onions for tang, or a drizzle of spicy mayo for an extra kick.

  
  

• Prep in Advance: To save time, prepare the salsa verde and marinate the tuna a few hours ahead. Assemble the tacos just before serving for optimum freshness.

  
  

An eye-level view of a plate of Ahi tuna tacos garnished with fresh ingredients.

Savor the Fusion Experience!

These Mexican-Japanese Ahi Tuna Tacos with zesty salsa verde are a unique fusion that promises to impress everyone at your table. The fresh and bold ingredients create a captivating dish that stands out at any gathering.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare for a flavor explosion like no other. Whether hosting a dinner party or enjoying a night in, these tacos will surely be a favorite!

Why This Recipe?

I decided to make these because they’re fresh, packed with protein, and incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, they give me more time to focus on other things while still enjoying a flavorful meal. Give them a try and see how they elevate your taco night!