13 Grilled Tuna Recipes You Can Pair With Salads, Rice Bowls, Or Fresh Veggies

Grilled tuna is a versatile and delicious choice that brings a fresh, smoky flavor to any meal. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, these 13 grilled tuna recipes offer a range of options to elevate your plate. Perfectly seared on the outside while tender and juicy inside, grilled tuna pairs beautifully with crisp salads, hearty rice bowls, or vibrant fresh vegetables—making it a go-to for healthy and flavorful meals.

From simple marinades that highlight the natural taste of the fish to bold, zesty sauces and spice rubs, this collection showcases how easily you can customize grilled tuna to suit any palate. Each recipe is crafted to enhance the tuna’s meaty texture while complementing your choice of sides, turning everyday ingredients into something special. Whether you prefer Asian-inspired flavors, Mediterranean herbs, or a touch of citrus brightness, there’s a recipe here to inspire your next meal.

As you explore these ideas, you’ll also pick up tips on grilling techniques to ensure your tuna comes out perfect every time, as well as suggestions for pairing it with the freshest, most satisfying accompaniments. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, these grilled tuna recipes promise a balance of nutrition and flavor that never disappoints.

Get ready to fire up the grill and discover how these 13 grilled tuna recipes can transform simple ingredients into meals you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

Lemon Herb Grilled Tuna over Arugula Salad

This Lemon Herb Grilled Tuna over Arugula Salad is a fresh and light dish that bursts with flavor. The grilled tuna, marinated with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, pairs beautifully with the peppery arugula, creating a delightful balance of tastes. It’s a straightforward recipe that anyone can whip up in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

The combination of grilled tuna and crisp greens is not only satisfying but also healthy. You’ll appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients while enjoying the vibrant flavors that come together effortlessly. Serve this dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra zing!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups arugula
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Additional lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Tuna: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the tuna steaks and let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes.
2. Grill the Tuna: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated tuna for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, tossing gently to combine.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place a bed of arugula salad on each plate, top with grilled tuna, and garnish with additional lemon wedges and herbs if desired.

Cajun Blackened Tuna with Mango Salsa

Cajun blackened tuna with mango salsa is a vibrant dish that brings together bold spices and refreshing flavors. The tuna is coated in a zesty Cajun seasoning that creates a beautiful sear, locking in moisture and infusing it with rich taste. Paired with sweet and tangy mango salsa, this recipe is a delightful balance that’s simple to make yet impressive enough for gatherings.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is as satisfying as it is visually appealing. The combination of the spicy tuna and fruity salsa is a flavor explosion that leaves you wanting more!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small jalapeño, minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the tuna steaks generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tuna steaks and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred doneness.
3. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the mango salsa.
4. Once the tuna is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a minute. Serve the tuna topped with mango salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Spicy Tuna Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

These spicy tuna tacos are a delightful twist on traditional fish tacos. The combination of grilled tuna, zesty spices, and crunchy cabbage slaw creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They’re simple to make, making them an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal with friends.

The tacos are packed with smoky heat from the tuna, complemented by the refreshing crunch of the slaw and a squeeze of lime. They’re a tasty option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh tuna, cut into fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the tuna fillets.
3. Grill the tuna for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest.
4. In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, cilantro, and lime juice. Toss well to combine.
5. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. Slice the grilled tuna into bite-sized pieces and assemble the tacos by placing the tuna on the tortillas, topped with the cabbage slaw and jalapeños if desired.
7. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Mediterranean Grilled Tuna with Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean Grilled Tuna with Quinoa Salad is a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The tuna is grilled to perfection, creating a smoky, savory taste that pairs beautifully with a refreshing quinoa salad. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

The salad is filled with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. This meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Tuna: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the tuna steaks in the marinade and let sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.
3. Grill the Tuna: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated tuna steaks for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
4. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Slice the grilled tuna and place it on a plate alongside the quinoa salad. Enjoy your healthy and flavorful meal!

Tuna Steak Poke Bowl with Edamame

This Tuna Steak Poke Bowl is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients that’s both tasty and easy to make. The tender grilled tuna pairs beautifully with the crunchy edamame and vibrant veggies, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.

Perfect for a quick meal, this bowl brings a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy days or a relaxed weekend lunch.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh tuna steaks
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup edamame, shelled
• 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the tuna steaks with soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the tuna steaks for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer them cooked through.
3. While the tuna is grilling, prepare your bowls. Start with a base of cooked rice, then arrange the edamame, cucumbers, carrots, and red bell pepper on top.
4. Once the tuna is done, slice it into bite-sized pieces and place it on top of the veggies.
5. If using, add slices of avocado and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Herbed Tuna Kebabs with Grilled Vegetables

Herbed Tuna Kebabs are a delightful way to enjoy fresh seafood while soaking up the smoky flavors from the grill. These skewers combine tender chunks of tuna with colorful vegetables, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing. This recipe is straightforward, perfect for a weekend barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

The blend of herbs and spices gives the tuna a burst of flavor, while grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Serve these kebabs over a bed of fresh greens, rice, or alongside roasted veggies for a healthy meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh tuna, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Tuna: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the tuna cubes and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the tuna is marinating, prepare your vegetables by cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated tuna and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between tuna and veggies.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the tuna is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Soy-Ginger Glazed Tuna Steaks with Stir-Fried Veggies

These soy-ginger glazed tuna steaks are a delicious and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor. The glaze combines savory soy sauce and zesty ginger, creating a delightful balance that complements the rich taste of the tuna. Paired with colorful stir-fried veggies, this meal is both satisfying and healthy.

This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it the perfect choice for busy evenings. Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavors!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, grated ginger, honey, and sesame oil to create the glaze.
2. Brush the glaze onto both sides of the tuna steaks. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate skillet, sear the marinated tuna steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking.
6. Serve the tuna steaks alongside the stir-fried veggies, drizzling any leftover glaze over the top. Enjoy!

Sesame Crusted Tuna with Asian Slaw

Sesame Crusted Tuna with Asian Slaw is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and a satisfying crunch. The tuna is coated in sesame seeds, giving it a nutty taste and a crispy exterior, while the slaw adds a refreshing contrast with its vibrant veggies and tangy dressing. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also showcases the natural flavors of the tuna.

Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish is quick to whip up and will impress anyone at your table. Serve it alongside a vibrant Asian slaw for a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna: Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper. Brush them with soy sauce, then coat evenly with sesame seeds on both sides.
2. Cook the Tuna: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tuna steaks and sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or cook to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest.
3. Make the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.
4. Serve: Slice the seared tuna and arrange it on plates alongside the Asian slaw. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful meal!

Teriyaki Tuna Steaks with Coconut Rice

Teriyaki Tuna Steaks with Coconut Rice is a delightful dish that combines robust flavors and a hint of sweetness. The marinated tuna steaks are grilled to perfection, providing a savory and slightly smoky taste that pairs wonderfully with the creamy coconut rice. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The coconut rice adds a unique twist, offering a subtle sweetness and rich texture that complements the hearty tuna. Together, they create a balanced meal that is both refreshing and satisfying. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Tuna: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the tuna steaks and marinate for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coconut Rice: In a pot, combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
3. Grill the Tuna: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the tuna from the marinade and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness.
4. Serve: Fluff the coconut rice with a fork and divide it between plates. Top with the grilled tuna steaks and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Lime Cilantro Grilled Tuna with Black Bean Salad

This Lime Cilantro Grilled Tuna with Black Bean Salad is a fresh and zesty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tuna is marinated with lime juice and cilantro, giving it a bright flavor that pairs well with the hearty black bean salad. Simple to make, this recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together.

The grilled tuna is succulent and full of flavor, while the black bean salad adds a satisfying crunch and nutrition. It’s a winner for those looking to enjoy a light yet delicious meal that’s easy to whip up in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Tuna: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the tuna steaks in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine black beans, cherry tomatoes, green bell pepper, and red onion. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Tuna: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the tuna from the marinade and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled tuna and serve it over a generous helping of the black bean salad. Enjoy your refreshing meal!

Mediterranean Tuna Wrap with Fresh Veggies

This Mediterranean Tuna Wrap is a delicious and easy meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Packed with fresh veggies and flavored tuna, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. The combination of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and flavorful tuna creates a satisfying bite that’s both healthy and refreshing.

Making this wrap is simple and requires minimal cooking, making it ideal for busy days. Just mix the tuna with some Mediterranean spices, layer it with your favorite veggies, and wrap it all up in a soft tortilla. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 can of tuna in olive oil, drained
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large tortilla
• 1 cup fresh spinach or lettuce
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface. Start layering with fresh spinach, followed by the tuna mixture, red bell pepper slices, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for added flavor.
4. Carefully wrap the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go. Slice in half and enjoy your Mediterranean Tuna Wrap!

Garlic Butter Grilled Tuna with Rice Pilaf

Garlic Butter Grilled Tuna is a delightful dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of grilled tuna and the aromatic touch of garlic butter. This recipe is not only easy to make but also offers a satisfying combination of tenderness and flavor that will impress anyone at your dining table. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish pairs beautifully with rice pilaf.

The rice pilaf adds a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that complements the grilled tuna perfectly. It’s a simple side that can be whipped up in no time, allowing the tuna to shine. Get ready for a meal that’s both delicious and visually appealing!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks (about 6 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Grill the Tuna: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the tuna steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through but still pink in the center. Brush with garlic butter during the last minute of grilling.
3. Cook the Rice Pilaf: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the rice and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is cooked. Stir in the peas and parsley before serving.
4. Serve: Place the grilled tuna on a plate alongside the rice pilaf. Drizzle with remaining garlic butter and garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Tuna Niçoise Salad with Hard-Boiled Eggs

Tuna Niçoise Salad is a classic French dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a delightful way. With tender tuna, vibrant greens, and creamy hard-boiled eggs, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for lunch or a light dinner.

The combination of flavors—from the rich tuna to the crisp vegetables—creates a delicious balance that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a colorful dish that looks great on the table, ideal for impressing guests or just enjoying a nice meal at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of tuna in olive oil, drained
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and blanched
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
• 1/2 cup black olives
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by blanching the green beans in boiling water for about 3 minutes until tender but crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl or platter, layer the mixed greens, followed by the tuna, cherry tomatoes, green beans, olives, and red onion.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad.
4. Add the Eggs: Arrange the quartered hard-boiled eggs on top of the salad.
5. Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad to mix the ingredients and serve immediately for a fresh experience.

Final Thoughts
Grilled tuna is more than just a healthy protein—it’s a canvas for creativity and flavor. These 13 recipes show how easily it can be adapted to pair with salads, rice bowls, or fresh veggies, making every meal exciting and satisfying. With the right recipe and pairings, your grilled tuna dishes will become a favorite for any season or occasion. Dive in and enjoy the delicious possibilities!