Mango Citrus Tuna Steak Recipe

If you love seafood that bursts with bold, sunny flavors, this Mango Citrus Tuna Steak is going to be your new obsession. Imagine thick, meaty tuna steaks seared to perfection, then crowned with a fresh and zesty salsa of mango, orange, pepper, and cilantro—each bite is a vibrant celebration of color, texture, and taste.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This tropical-inspired dish requires only a handful of ingredients—each one contributing its own magic to highlight the tuna. From the creamy, sun-ripened mango to the fragrant cilantro, every component in Mango Citrus Tuna Steak builds on the last to create something unforgettable.

• Fresh Tuna Steaks: The star of the show! Opt for sushi-grade or the freshest steaks you can find for melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Fresh Mango (diced): Sweet, juicy mango adds vibrant color and a wonderful tropical sweetness to the salsa.
• Fresh Orange (diced): Choose an orange or tangelo for juicy, citrusy pop—pairs beautifully with the tuna and mango.
• Red or Green Bell Pepper (diced): Adds fresh crunch and a splash of color—choose your favorite or use both.
• Lime: Fresh lime juice brightens and ties all the salsa flavors together, while giving that irresistible citrus tang.
• Garlic: Just a hint of garlic deepens the flavor, adding a mellow, savory undertone.
• Salt & Sugar: Both just a dash—these balance the tart and sweet elements in your salsa.
• Soy Sauce: A simple dash ups the umami, enhancing the savory side of the tuna and fruit salsa.
• Cilantro: A generous handful, both in the salsa and as a fresh garnish, for herbaceous, vibrant lift.
• Olive Oil: Use for lightly coating the tuna—ensures an ideal sear and keeps everything moist and luscious.

Variations

One of my favorite parts about Mango Citrus Tuna Steak is how easy it is to make it your own! Feel free to play around with the fruit, herbs, or how you cook the tuna, so the recipe fits your tastes and any dietary needs.

• Switch Up the Fruit: Swap out the mango for fresh pineapple, or toss in a handful of diced avocado for a creamier salsa.
• Add Heat: For a spicy kick, mince a little jalapeño or serrano pepper into the salsa—just enough to make it sizzle!
• Go Herbaceous: Try mint or Thai basil instead of cilantro for a totally different aromatic flavor profile.
• Grill or Sear: No grill? No problem—pan-searing the tuna gets you that perfectly browned crust with ease.

How to Make Mango Citrus Tuna Steak

Step 1: Make the Mango Citrus Salsa

In a mixing bowl, toss together the finely diced mango, orange, and bell pepper. This is where all the punchy colors and lively flavors of your Mango Citrus Tuna Steak begin to mingle. If you want an extra pop of color, mix red and green pepper together!

Step 2: Add Citrus and Seasonings

Squeeze the juice of a quarter lime right over your fruit and peppers, then sprinkle in a dash each of salt and sugar, a teaspoon of garlic, and a dash of soy sauce. Add a big, fresh handful of chopped cilantro. Mix well, cover, and let those ingredients chill in the fridge while you move on to the tuna. (This gives the flavors time to meld—so worth it!)

Step 3: Prep and Sear the Tuna Steaks

Pat the tuna steaks dry, then lightly brush both sides with olive oil to help get that irresistible golden crust. Heat your grill or a sturdy skillet over medium-high. Once hot, gently lay in the tuna and sear for 3-4 minutes—don’t fuss or move them around too much, so they form a beautiful crust.

Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking

Flip the tuna steaks and cook for another 3 minutes on the second side. For a classic medium-rare to medium finish, the centers stay just blushing pink. If you love your tuna less done, shave a minute off—the result is a perfectly tender Mango Citrus Tuna Steak that’s never dry.

Step 5: Plate and Top with Salsa

Layer a fresh pile of cilantro leaves on your plates, then nestle the seared tuna steaks on top. Generously spoon over the chilled mango citrus salsa—don’t be shy, every bit of that bright, juicy flavor is what makes this dish pop! Serve immediately, and let the colors and aromas take center stage.

How to Serve Mango Citrus Tuna Steak

Garnishes

Grace your Mango Citrus Tuna Steak with extra cilantro sprigs, gleaming lime wedges, or a quick scatter of finely sliced green onion. These simple toppers add green freshness, extra zing, and a burst of color with almost no effort.

Side Dishes

This dish is made for bright, summery sides! I love pairing it with coconut rice, a crisp cucumber salad, or even some grilled asparagus. The sweet and citrusy flavors also make it perfect for a simple leafy salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of wow factor, try slicing the tuna, fanning it atop a bed of salsa, and drizzling any extra dressing over the plate. Or, serve on large platters family-style for guests to help themselves, making it the tropical centerpiece of your meal. Mango Citrus Tuna Steak is as fun to serve as it is to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the tuna and the mango citrus salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salsa will keep beautifully for up to 2 days, but the tuna is best enjoyed within 24 hours for max freshness.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze already-cooked tuna steaks, as the texture can become tough. However, you can freeze raw tuna steaks (wrapped well) for up to two months, then thaw in the fridge before cooking your next Mango Citrus Tuna Steak feast.

Reheating

To maintain tenderness, reheat leftover tuna very gently—think a few seconds in the microwave or a quick sear in a hot pan. Avoid overcooking, as tuna dries out quickly. The salsa is best served chilled straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Mango Citrus Tuna Steak a spot on your table soon—it’s that rare recipe that feels both special and totally doable. Full of bright, bold flavors and way easier than it looks, it’s a dish you’ll want to make on repeat. Enjoy every delicious, colorful bite!

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