Ina Garten’s Tuna & Avocado Rolls: A Refreshing Summer Recipe

Sushi lovers can’t resist a mouthwatering Ina Garten seared tuna & avocado rolls that promise a gourmet twist on classic Japanese cuisine.

Fresh ingredients dance together in this elegant appetizer.

The delicate balance of seared tuna and creamy avocado creates a luxurious bite-sized experience.

Bold flavors and restaurant-quality presentation make this recipe shine at any gathering.

You’ll appreciate the simple yet sophisticated technique of searing the tuna to perfection.

Each roll delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will impress even the most discerning palate.

Get ready to elevate your home cooking with this stunning seafood creation.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 4

What You’ll Need for Ina Garten’s Seared Tuna & Avocado Rolls

• Tuna: Fresh, sushi-grade tuna brings rich ocean flavor and provides lean protein; choose deep red, firm cuts without browning or fishy smell.
• Scallions: Adds sharp, fresh crunch and bright green color to balance the tuna's richness; select vibrant green stalks with crisp white bases.

• Olive Oil: Creates silky texture and helps sear tuna while adding subtle fruity undertones; use extra virgin for best quality.
• Lime Zest, Lime Juice: Brightens the entire dish with zesty citrus notes and helps tenderize the fish; choose firm, fragrant limes.
• Soy Sauce: Provides deep umami and saltiness; select low-sodium variety for better control of dish's seasoning.
• Jalapeño: Introduces spicy kick and vibrant heat; remove seeds for milder warmth.
• Tabasco: Adds complex heat and tangy depth; adjust quantity based on personal spice preference.

• Avocado: Creamy element that softens dish's intensity; pick ripe but firm avocados without dark spots.
• Shallots: Brings mild, sophisticated onion flavor; choose firm, smooth-skinned shallots.
• Red Wine Vinegar: Helps pickle shallots and adds tangy brightness; select clear, high-quality vinegar.
• Butter: Provides golden, rich toasting for buns; use unsalted for precise seasoning control.
• Soft Buns: Serves as warm, tender vessel for tuna mixture; choose fresh, soft rolls.

Tools for Preparing Ina Garten’s Tuna-Avocado Rolls

• Cast-iron skillet (10 to 11-inch): Perfect for getting that gorgeous sear on the tuna.
• Large bowl: Needed for mixing tuna with seasonings and ingredients.
• Cutting board: Essential for dicing tuna and avocado safely.
• Sharp knife: Crucial for precise cutting of tuna, avocado, scallions, and jalapeño.
• Small bowl: Used for pickling shallots in red wine vinegar.
• Large sauté pan (12-inch): Ideal for toasting buns with butter.
• Zester or grater: Helps to remove lime zest easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts.

Rolling Instructions for Ina Garten’s Seared Tuna Delight

Tuna Adventure

• Sizzling Skillet Moment

Get your cast-iron skillet blazing hot. Coat the tuna with a drizzle of olive oil and a generous shower of salt and pepper. Quickly sear each side for just one minute, keeping the center beautifully rare. Slice into chunky bite-sized pieces.

• Flavor Fusion

Whip up a zesty marinade combining olive oil, bright lime zest, tangy lime juice, rich soy sauce, and a splash of spicy Tabasco. Toss in your seared tuna, fresh scallions, and fiery jalapeño. Gently fold in creamy avocado chunks and let the flavors mingle for 20 magical minutes.

• Shallot Sparkle

Quick-pickle shallots in red wine vinegar to add a punchy, tangy kick to your rolls.

• Bun Transformation

Melt butter in a big sauté pan and crisp up those buns until they’re golden and irresistible. Pile the marinated tuna mixture into the warm, toasty rolls.

• Final Touch

Drizzle with creamy chipotle mayo and sprinkle the zippy pickled shallots on top. Serve immediately while everything is warm and bursting with flavor.

Tips to Elevate Tuna & Avocado Rolls from Ina Garten

• Choose sushi-grade yellowfin or ahi tuna for the best flavor and texture, ensuring freshness and safe raw consumption.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for even, high-heat searing that creates a perfect crispy exterior while keeping the center rare.
• Adjust Tabasco and jalapeño quantities to match your preferred heat intensity, from mild to fiery hot.
• Swap tuna with grilled shrimp, salmon, or chicken for a different protein option that maintains the recipe's vibrant flavor profile.
• Replace traditional burger buns with lettuce wraps or gluten-free rolls to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

How to Plate Tuna & Avocado Rolls Like Ina

• Savor the Seafood Sensation: Pair these tuna rolls with a crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the bright flavors.
• Chill and Refresh: Serve alongside a light summer salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the rich tuna.
• Create a Beachy Spread: Accompany the rolls with sweet potato chips or crispy plantain chips for a delightful textural contrast and tropical vibe.
• Garnish with Flair: Top with fresh cilantro leaves or microgreens for an extra pop of color and herbaceous freshness that elevates the dish.

Best Storage Tips for Ina’s Tuna & Avocado Combo

• Refrigerate Rapidly: Store leftover tuna mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for maximum 1-2 days. Keep the avocado fresh by pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
• Prep Ahead Smartly: Marinate tuna and chop ingredients up to 4 hours before serving. Separate wet and dry components to maintain crisp textures and prevent soggy buns.
• Freeze with Caution: Do not freeze this dish, as raw tuna and fresh avocado will lose quality and texture. Consume immediately for best taste and food safety.
• Reheat Carefully: If necessary, gently warm tuna mixture in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving to prevent toughening the delicate fish and maintain its tender texture.

Elegant Ina Garten Seared Tuna & Avocado Rolls Recipe

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4.6 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ina Garten’s seared tuna & avocado rolls showcase elegant Japanese-inspired cuisine with luxurious ingredients. Precise searing techniques and fresh components create a restaurant-quality experience you can easily master at home.

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Ingredients

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• 0.75 lb (340 g) sushi-grade tuna steak, sliced 0.75 inch (2 cm) thick
• 1 ripe Hass avocado
• 6 top-split hot dog buns, such as Pepperidge Farm
• 0.25 cup (60 ml) minced scallions (2 scallions)
• 1 shallot, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 3 tbsps (45 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tsp (10 ml) minced fresh jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
• 2 tbsps (30 ml) red wine vinegar
• 1.5 tsp (7.5 ml) soy sauce
• 2 tbsps (28 g) unsalted butter
• 6 dashes Tabasco sauce
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Good olive oil
• Chipotle Mayonnaise (recipe follows)

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Instructions

1. Skillet Preparation: Heat cast-iron skillet over high heat for 3 minutes. Coat tuna with olive oil, season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Tuna Searing: Quickly sear tuna for 60 seconds per side, maintaining raw center. Transfer to cutting board and dice into uniform cubes.
3. Marinade Creation: Whisk olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, soy sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
4. Mixture Assembly: Fold diced tuna, scallions, and jalapeño into marinade. Cube avocado and gently incorporate into the mixture.
5. Flavor Infusion: Let tuna mixture rest at room temperature for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to develop and meld.
6. Shallot Preparation: Combine thinly sliced shallots with red wine vinegar, letting them soften and absorb tangy notes.
7. Bun Toasting: Melt butter in sauté pan over medium-high heat. Toast buns until golden and crispy on both sides.
8. Final Composition: Arrange toasted buns with cut sides up. Spoon marinated tuna mixture generously into each bun.
9. Garnishing and Serving: Drizzle Chipotle Mayonnaise over filled buns. Top with pickled shallots. Serve immediately while buns remain warm and crisp.

Notes

• Quick Searing Technique: Heat cast-iron skillet extremely hot to achieve perfect 60-second sear, keeping tuna’s center rare and preserving delicate texture.
• Marinade Magic: Let tuna mixture rest at room temperature for 20 minutes to allow flavors to harmonize and develop deep, complex taste profile.
• Precise Ingredient Cutting: Dice tuna and avocado into uniform 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes for consistent texture and elegant presentation.
• Bun Browning Secret: Toast buns together in butter until golden and crispy, creating a delectable foundation that elevates the entire dish’s sensory experience.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg