Refreshing Ahi Tuna Salad

Canned tuna is the quintessential stereotypical food of bodybuilders and fitness people. How many cans of tuna do you suppose you’ve consumed in your life? Canned tuna is great; it’s quick, easy, and high in protein. But fresh tuna is a special treat.   

This simple, healthy, elegant Ahi Tuna Bowl combines tuna, avocado, cucumber, and scallion in a fresh sesame-ginger vinaigrette. Avocados are high in monounsaturated fat, the healthy, cholesterol-lowering kind. Cucumbers are cool, refreshing, cleansing, and high in vitamins. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory that stimulates circulation, nourishes the skin, and cleanses the kidneys. Each of these ingredients adds bold flavor and abundant nutrition to this simple salad. 

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds big eye tuna
• 1 tsp canola oil
• 2 Tbs white sesame seeds
• 2 Tbs black sesame seeds
• 2 large Haas avocados
• 1 seedless cucumber, peeled
• 1 bunch scallions, chopped on the bias
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped or whole

Ingredients for Dressing

• 1 ½ Tbs sesame oil
• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 1 Tbs soy sauce
• 2 Tbs fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• ½ tsp sriracha

Directions

1. Sprinkle tuna with salt, pepper, and sesame seeds. 
2. Place canola oil in a large skillet over high heat. 
3. Add tuna when the oil begins to smoke and cook for about 30 to 45 seconds on each side. 
4. Cool slightly, then chill until cold. 
5. Meanwhile whisk all of the dressing ingredients together and set aside.
6. Cut tuna, avocado, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. 
7. Toss them together with the scallions, dressing, cilantro, and additional sesame seeds. 
8. Serve cold.