Blackened Tuna Steaks with Mango Salsa

Recipe View 5 mins Prepare the Tuna Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons lime juice, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the tuna steaks. Place the marinated steaks in a sealable container and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or up to 6 hours. (Prep time: 5 minutes, Marinating time: 3-6 hours)

Recipe View 15 mins Prepare the Mango Salsa: While the tuna marinates, combine the chopped mango, red bell pepper, Spanish onion, green onion, cilantro, and jalapeno in a separate bowl. Add 2 tablespoons lime juice and 1.5 teaspoons olive oil; toss gently to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. (Prep time: 15 minutes, Chilling time: 1 hour)

Recipe View 3 mins Create the Blackening Spice Blend: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, basil, oregano, and garlic powder. (Prep time: 3 minutes)

Recipe View 5 mins Blacken the Tuna: Remove the tuna steaks from the refrigerator and gently rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels. Generously coat each side of the tuna steaks with the blackening spice blend, pressing gently to ensure the spices adhere. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View 6 mins Sear the Tuna Steaks: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and almost smoking. Carefully place two tuna steaks in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3 minutes on one side, then carefully flip. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, let it heat up briefly, and sear the other side for another 3 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on desired doneness. (Cook time: 6-8 minutes)

Recipe View 2 mins Serve: Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chilled mango salsa onto each of four plates. Top with the seared blackened tuna steaks and serve immediately. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired. (Prep time: 2 minutes)