Ingredients
Tuna and Vinaigrette
- 1 saku tuna or ahi tuna block
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup quality olive oil (e.g., Mina)
- 1-2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup cucumbers, sliced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying garlic and finishing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In the serving plate, zest the orange and lemon directly, then juice them onto the plate. Add white balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, drained capers, and chili flakes if using. Whisk everything until smooth. Set aside or refrigerate if not serving immediately.
- Slice the Tuna: Using a very sharp knife, thinly slice the tuna block into delicate slices. For easier slicing, you can flash freeze the tuna for about 45 minutes beforehand.
- Arrange Tuna and Cucumber: Layer the sliced tuna and sliced cucumbers over the vinaigrette on the serving plate, alternating or arranging as you prefer for visual appeal.
- Make Garlic Chips: Heat olive oil in a pan and pan-fry the thinly sliced garlic cloves for about 2 minutes or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Finish the Dish: Sprinkle the crispy garlic chips over the tuna and cucumber. Drizzle additional olive oil over the top and add extra chili flakes if desired.
- Serve: Tuna Crudo can be enjoyed as is or served with crunchy ciabatta or Italian bread for a delightful textural contrast.
Notes
- Use sashimi-grade tuna for the freshest and safest raw consumption.
- Flash freezing the tuna before slicing helps achieve very thin, clean slices.
- Garlic chips add a delightful crunch but fried onions can be substituted if preferred.
- Adjust chili flakes to taste or omit for a milder version.
- Serve immediately after assembling for best texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
