Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices are a light, refreshing, and flavorful appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining fresh, raw tuna with a kick of spice and the crispness of cucumber, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. With minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, it’s a great option for impressing guests at a party or serving as a healthy, satisfying snack. The cold, refreshing cucumber perfectly complements the rich tuna tartare, while the spicy dressing adds a nice heat to balance the dish.
1. What Are Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices?
Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices are a variation of traditional tuna tartare, served in a fun, bite-sized form using cucumber as a base instead of crackers or toast. The tuna is finely diced and mixed with a spicy, tangy sauce made with ingredients like sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil. The mixture is then spooned onto cucumber slices, creating a refreshing and healthy appetizer with a punch of flavor. The cucumber provides a crisp and cooling contrast to the rich, flavorful tuna.
Why they’re great:
- Light and refreshing: The cucumber adds a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the tuna.
- Healthy: Low in calories and carbs, this dish is a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and add various toppings like avocado or sesame seeds to suit your taste.
2. How to Make Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound sushi-grade tuna (diced into small cubes)
- 1 cucumber (sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to desired spice level)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional, to balance the heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1/4 avocado (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Tuna
Dice the sushi-grade tuna into small, even cubes. Ensure the tuna is very fresh, as it will be eaten raw. Set aside in a bowl. - Make the Spicy Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey (if using). Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired. - Combine Tuna and Sauce
Pour the spicy sauce over the diced tuna and gently toss to coat evenly. Be careful not to mash the tuna—mix until the sauce is well-distributed. - Assemble the Cucumber Slices
Slice the cucumber into rounds about 1/2-inch thick. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving platter. - Top with Tuna Tartare
Spoon a small amount of the spicy tuna mixture onto each cucumber slice, making sure each bite has a generous portion of the tuna. - Garnish and Serve
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and optional toppings like avocado slices or fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. - Serve Immediately
These spicy tuna tartare cucumber slices are best served immediately while the cucumber is fresh and crisp.
Tips for the Best Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices:
- Use high-quality sushi-grade tuna: Freshness is key when making raw dishes like tartare.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or less sriracha depending on your preference for heat.
- Don’t over-mix: Gently toss the tuna with the sauce to keep the texture light and fresh.
3. Health Benefits of Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices
These spicy tuna tartare cucumber slices are not only delicious but also provide a variety of health benefits due to their fresh, nutrient-packed ingredients.
Rich in Protein
Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles and supports overall body function. It’s also low in fat, making it a healthy protein choice.
Packed with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Tuna, especially sushi-grade tuna, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote brain function.
Low in Calories
This dish is low-calorie, especially when served with cucumber instead of higher-calorie crackers or bread. It’s a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
High in Antioxidants
The cucumber provides vitamin C and antioxidants that support the immune system and skin health. The green onions also contain beneficial compounds like vitamin K.
Good Fats from Sesame Oil and Avocado
Both sesame oil and avocado are sources of healthy fats, which promote heart health and provide sustained energy.
4. Creative Variations of Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and variations:
Avocado and Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices
Top each cucumber slice with a slice of avocado before adding the spicy tuna mixture. The creamy avocado adds richness and balances the heat from the sriracha.
Mango and Tuna Tartare
For a sweet contrast to the spice, add finely diced mango to the tuna mixture. The fruit adds a tropical sweetness that complements the savory tuna and spicy sauce.
Crispy Shallots
Top your spicy tuna tartare with crispy fried shallots for added crunch and a sweet, savory flavor.
Sriracha Mayo
For an extra creamy touch, drizzle sriracha mayo (a mix of mayonnaise and sriracha) over the tuna before serving. This adds richness and more depth of flavor.
Cucumber Cups
Instead of simple cucumber slices, scoop out a bit of the center of each cucumber round to create a small cup. This creates more room for the tuna tartare and makes for a fun presentation.
5. Pairing and Serving Suggestions
These spicy tuna tartare cucumber slices are a great appetizer or snack on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of dishes to make a complete meal.
Perfect Pairings:
- Fresh salad: Pair with a simple arugula or mixed greens salad for a light, healthy meal.
- Sushi or sashimi: Serve alongside other fresh, light dishes like sushi or sashimi for a sushi-themed meal.
- Rice dishes: Pair with sushi rice or a simple rice bowl for a more filling meal.
Drinks to Pair:
- Sake: A cold glass of sake or white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) pairs well with the fresh, clean flavors of the tuna.
- Sparkling water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water with a twist of lime.
- Iced green tea: A refreshing, slightly bitter beverage that complements the flavors without overpowering the dish.
6. Tips for Storing and Making Ahead
While these spicy tuna tartare cucumber slices are best served immediately, here’s how you can store leftovers or prep in advance.
Storage:
- Tuna tartare should be eaten within a few hours of making it to ensure it stays fresh and safe to eat.
- Store leftover tuna tartare in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than 1-2 hours. If the tuna is stored too long, it may lose its freshness and texture.
- Cucumber slices should be stored separately from the tuna. Keep them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Making Ahead:
- You can prep the tuna mixture a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge, but it’s best to assemble the cucumber slices right before serving to ensure they stay crisp.
- Cucumber cups can also be prepared in advance and stored in a separate container, but don’t fill them until just before serving.
FAQs About Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices
1. Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?
Yes, as long as the tuna is sushi-grade or has been frozen to the recommended standards for raw consumption.
2. Can I make these non-spicy?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sriracha sauce or replace it with a milder sauce like soy sauce or a mild sesame dressing.
3. How do I know if my tuna is sushi-grade?
Sushi-grade tuna is typically labeled as such at reputable seafood markets. It should be fresh, firm, and bright red in color.
4. Can I use something other than cucumber?
Yes! You can serve the tuna tartare on avocado slices, radish rounds, or small cracker-like bases for a different texture.
5. How can I make this dish more filling?
Serve the tuna tartare on mini toast points or crackers for more substance. You can also pair it with a side salad or rice bowl.
6. Can I use frozen avocado?
Frozen avocado may be too mushy for this dish. It’s best to use fresh avocado slices for a creamy contrast.
7. How long can I store leftover tuna tartare?
Tuna tartare should be eaten the same day it’s made. It can be stored in the fridge for no more than 1-2 hours after preparation.
8. Can I use cooked tuna?
For this recipe, raw tuna is preferred, but you can substitute it with cooked tuna steak if necessary, though the flavor and texture will be different.
9. How do I make the cucumber slices into cups?
Simply use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out the center of each cucumber slice to create small cups.
10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Use cubed tofu or mushrooms as a vegetarian substitute for the tuna, and follow the same preparation method.
Conclusion
Spicy Tuna Tartare Cucumber Slices are a delicious, fresh, and healthy appetizer that combines the richness of tuna with the crispness of cucumber and a bit of heat from the sriracha. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick snack, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or prefer milder options, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit any palate. 🌶️🍣🥒