Vegetarian Seared Tuna Salad
Experience a fresh twist on a classic dish with this Vegetarian Seared Tuna Salad, where juicy watermelon takes center stage as a clever alternative to tuna steak. Perfectly seared with a flavorful soy lime marinade and a crunchy black sesame seed crust, the watermelon transforms into a mouthwatering "steak" bursting with umami flavor. Paired with vibrant mixed greens, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and sweet cherry tomatoes, this salad is both visually stunning and delightfully refreshing. A zesty homemade olive oil lime dressing ties everything together, offering a harmonious balance of tastes and textures. Ready in just 25 minutes, this plant-based recipe is a creative and healthy option that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or impressing guests at your next gathering.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 small watermelon
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 avocado
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 0.5 cucumber
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Cut the watermelon into thick, steak-like slices about 2 inches thick, then cut them into 4-inch wide rectangles to resemble tuna steaks.
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and juice of a lime. Dip each watermelon 'steak' into the mixture, ensuring all sides are coated.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the watermelon on each side for about 1-2 minutes or until it begins to caramelize slightly.
Sprinkle the black sesame seeds on the watermelon while it is searing to encrust one side.
Remove the seared watermelon from the pan and let it cool slightly.
Meanwhile, prepare the salad by tossing the mixed greens, sliced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber in a large salad bowl.
In a small jar, combine olive oil, the remaining lime juice, salt, and pepper. Shake well to emulsify the dressing.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
Slice the cooled watermelon pieces into 1/2-inch thick slices and arrange them over the salad.
Serve immediately, enjoying the delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
913 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.2 g | 90% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.3 g | 52% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2999 mg | 130% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 71.0 g | 26% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.9 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.6 g | ||
| Protein | 16.1 g | 32% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 259 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 6.5 mg | 36% | |
| Potassium | 2318 mg | 49% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
