Sexy Seared Ahi Tuna Salad with Goat Cheese and Mandarin Oranges

Cooking outdoors this time of year is exceptional.  While it’s still hot in September, Indian summer may just make it a bit hotter. Here is a light and cool recipe for you and your honey!

I have a sweet griddle for my Expedition XXX Three-Burner Stove. Griddle cooking is so much fun, but if you don’t have one, a nice seasoned cast iron pan will work well too.

 

Dinner salads are always a great idea!

INGREDIENTS: 

2 large fresh ahi tuna steak filets

1 teaspoon garlic infused olive oil

1 large head butter lettuce

¼ cup chopped fresh basil

1 small package of goat cheese

1 can of Mandarin Oranges

4 tablespoons seasoned rice wine vinegar

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon roasted sesame oil

2 teaspoon sugar

1 tablespoon black or white sesame seeds

1 Meyer Lemon

salt and freshly ground black pepper

COOKING MUSIC SELECTION:  Yousef - Beg (Hot Since 82Future Remix)

PREPARATION:

Clean and thoroughly dry the lettuce and toss with chopped basil. Open the can of mandarin oranges, drain excess juice and set aside. Season tuna with garlic oil and salt and pepper. Sprinkle a coating of sesame seeds on the large surfaces of the tuna and press them into the fish. 

Preheat the grill griddle or pan to high heat. Pour oil onto the griddle and let it heat up, then place tuna onto the hot griddle and sear on each side for about 60 seconds. Remove them and let rest while you make the rest of the salad.

Whisk in the sesame oil, sugar, seasoned rice wine vinegar, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Add the oranges and toss the dressing with the lettuce. Start with half the dressing and add more to taste.

Place lettuce servings on plates. Slice tuna and serve over the salad. Garnish with goat cheese crumbles, and sprinkle with remaining sesame seeds and squeeze the Meyer lemon over fish. 

Serve wearing black leather and make them beg for it in yummy creative ways. That always makes a dinner salad a bit more memorable. Give Wednesday, "Hump Day" a whole new meaning. : )