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Italian Tuna Tartare Recipe

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3.9 from 6 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Italian Tuna Tartare recipe featuring sushi-grade yellowfin tuna, zesty lemon, and a touch of fermented chili for a flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Tuna Tartare

  • 200 g yellowfin tuna (sushi-grade)
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil

Dressing

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fermented chilli (Italian-style)
  • 1 teaspoon capers
  • ½ teaspoon flaky salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chives (finely chopped)

To Serve

  • Extra glug of olive oil
  • Toasted sourdough or baguette slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare Tuna: Dice the yellowfin tuna into 1cm pieces and place in a glass bowl. Add 2 teaspoons of olive oil and mix well to coat each piece evenly. Set aside to marinate briefly.
  2. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fermented chilli, capers, flaky salt, black pepper, and half of the finely chopped chives. Stir until the dressing is well blended.
  3. Combine Tuna and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the tuna and gently mix to ensure the tuna is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
  4. Assemble and Garnish: Spoon the tuna tartare into a shallow serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining chives on top and drizzle with an extra glug of olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with a tiny pinch of salt if needed.
  5. Serve: Serve the tuna tartare immediately alongside toasted sourdough or baguette slices for a delightful appetizer experience.

Notes

  • Use only sushi-grade tuna for safety and best flavor.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest taste and texture.
  • Toasted bread should be lightly crisp but not burnt for best pairing.
  • Fermented chilli can be substituted with mild chili flakes if unavailable, but it alters the traditional taste.
  • Keep the tuna chilled until just before serving.