Learn how to cook a perfect, crusty blackened tuna steak using your grill, skillet, or air fryer. This easy tuna dinner is healthy and full of Cajun spice.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:2 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Searing/Grilling
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 (6 ounce) tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional): Avocado-mango salsa
Instructions
Pat the tuna steaks completely dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and creates a better crust.
In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and salt together.
Brush both sides of the tuna steaks lightly with olive oil.
Generously coat all sides of the tuna steaks with the seasoning mixture, pressing gently so the spices adhere well.
Choose your cooking method:
**For Skillet:** Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron works best) over medium-high heat until very hot. Place the seasoned tuna in the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare (125°F internal temperature).
**For Grill:** Preheat your grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill the tuna for 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
**For Air Fryer:** Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the steaks in the basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, for medium-rare.
Remove the blackened tuna steak from the heat immediately. Let it rest for 2 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Serve your spicy tuna steak with fresh avocado-mango salsa for a great healthy tuna recipe.
Notes
For meal prep, you can mix the Cajun seasoning blend ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
If you prefer your tuna cooked more thoroughly, increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of 140°F for medium.
This recipe works well for making a quick blackened tuna dinner idea when you need something fast.