Tuna Steaks with Garlic-Herb Cream Sauce Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 (5 ounce) tuna steaks
• 1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
• cup fat-free half-and-half
• cup garlic and herb spreadable cheese (such as Alouette)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 cups fresh spinach

Directions

Step 1: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt.

Step 2: Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet. Cook the steaks for 3 to 4 minutes on each side.

Step 3: Transfer the cooked tuna steaks to a serving plate and keep them warm.

Step 4: In the same skillet, add the half-and-half and garlic-herb cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce.

Step 5: Stir in the lemon juice. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the sauce and set it aside.

Step 6: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, tossing it with the sauce until the spinach is wilted, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 7: Divide the cooked spinach between two plates and top with the tuna steaks.

Step 8: Drizzle the reserved sauce over the tuna steaks before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	304
Total Fat	13g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	98mg
Sodium	399mg
Total Carbohydrate	7g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	39g
Vitamin C	11mg
Calcium	117mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	942mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Author: The Daily Gourmet

Description: Tuna steaks are dressed up with a dreamy garlic-herb cream sauce and served over spinach in this quick and easy meal for two.

History and Origin of the Dish

The combination of tuna and creamy sauces has roots in various culinary traditions, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine where fresh seafood is often paired with rich, creamy accompaniments. Tuna steaks, in particular, have become a popular dish due to their meaty texture and mild flavor, which makes them a versatile base for a variety of sauces. This dish with a garlic-herb cream sauce is a modern American twist, inspired by classic Mediterranean seafood recipes. The addition of garlic and herbs reflects the widespread use of aromatic seasonings in coastal Mediterranean cooking.

Regional Variations

Tuna is a highly prized fish in many coastal regions around the world. While the garlic-herb cream sauce is characteristic of American adaptations, in Mediterranean countries such as Italy and Spain, tuna is often paired with more acidic and fresh flavors, such as tomatoes, olives, and citrus. In contrast, this creamy sauce adds a richness that balances the mild flavor of tuna, offering a unique experience compared to lighter Mediterranean preparations. The choice to serve the tuna with spinach is also a modern American touch, as spinach is commonly used in lighter, quick-cooking dishes.

What Sets This Dish Apart

Unlike other popular fish dishes, such as salmon with hollandaise or swordfish with a tomato-based sauce, tuna steaks with garlic-herb cream sauce offer a perfect balance between richness and freshness. The tuna is cooked to a perfect sear on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside, a texture that is not easily achieved with other fish. The creamy sauce with garlic, herbs, and lemon juice enhances the flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the tuna. Additionally, the addition of spinach provides a healthy, earthy contrast that completes the dish.

Where to Serve This Dish

This dish is versatile enough to be served in a variety of settings, from a casual weeknight dinner to an elegant dinner party. It's ideal for a romantic meal, as it is quick to prepare yet feels sophisticated. Many restaurants specializing in seafood or American cuisine with a Mediterranean influence include similar dishes on their menus, particularly in coastal areas. At home, it can be paired with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or even a light salad to complement the richness of the tuna and sauce.

Fun Facts About Tuna

Tuna are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of swimming at speeds up to 75 km/h (47 mph). They are also known for their incredible migratory patterns, traveling thousands of miles across oceans. In culinary history, tuna has been an important part of diets around the world, especially in Japan, where it is a cornerstone of sushi and sashimi. The term "steak" for tuna is somewhat unusual because its not technically a steak in the traditional sense but is used due to the cuts large, meaty texture. Additionally, tuna is prized for its high protein content and omega-3 fatty acids, making it both a delicious and healthy option.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to try something new for dinner or impress guests with a gourmet meal, Tuna Steaks with Garlic-Herb Cream Sauce offers a fantastic combination of rich flavors and simple ingredients. The creamy, garlicky sauce is a perfect complement to the tender tuna, making this dish a favorite among seafood lovers and home cooks alike.

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