Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna is a showstopper appetizer that brings together the delicate flavors of sushi-grade tuna with a perfectly crusted sesame edge. Seared to perfection, the tender pink center contrasts beautifully with the crunchy exterior, making it a sensory delight at any dinner party or special meal.

This dish is celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. Served with a drizzle of soy-ginger sauce or a wasabi cream, it balances freshness, heat, and umami in every bite. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to impress guests, this ahi tuna recipe is a must-try.
What Kind of Tuna Should I Use?
For the best result, use sushi-grade ahi tuna. This high-quality fish is safe to eat rare, ensuring that the inside stays buttery and tender while the outside gets a quick, flavorful sear. Ask your fishmonger for center-cut tuna steaks, as they sear evenly and present beautifully on the plate.
Ingredients for the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna
- Ahi tuna steaks: The star of the dish, providing a meaty yet delicate bite.
- Sesame seeds (white and black): Create the signature crunchy crust and nutty aroma.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness.
- Ginger (fresh, grated): Brings a bright, zesty kick.
- Garlic (minced): Layers in savory complexity.
- Wasabi paste or cream: Offers a spicy edge that complements the mild tuna.
- Rice vinegar: Lends gentle acidity to balance flavors.
- Honey or mirin: Adds a touch of sweetness for balance.
- Green onions and cilantro (optional garnish): Provide freshness and color.

How To Make the Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna
Pat the ahi tuna steaks dry with paper towels. This helps the sesame seeds adhere and ensures a crisp sear.
Step 2: Coat with Sesame Crust
Spread a mix of white and black sesame seeds on a plate. Press each tuna steak gently into the seeds, coating all sides evenly.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey or mirin. Set aside for drizzling later.
Step 4: Sear the Tuna
Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Sear the tuna steaks for about 30 seconds to 1 minute per side — just until the sesame seeds are golden but the center remains rare.
Step 5: Slice and Plate
Using a sharp knife, slice the tuna against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with the prepared sauce. Garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired.
How to Serve and Store Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna
Serve the ahi tuna immediately after slicing to enjoy its fresh, buttery texture at its best. Arrange it over a drizzle of sauce, or serve with extra on the side for dipping. Pair it with a light salad, steamed rice, or alongside other sushi-inspired appetizers for an elegant spread.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that seared tuna is best enjoyed fresh, as refrigeration can slightly alter its texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tuna is sushi-grade?
Look for labeling at the fish market or ask your fishmonger directly. Sushi-grade means it has been frozen to temperatures that kill parasites, making it safe to eat rare.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare the sauce and sesame crust in advance, but sear the tuna just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
What oil should I use for searing?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or avocado oil, works best.
Can I use frozen tuna?
Yes, as long as it is sushi-grade and properly thawed in the refrigerator.
What can I serve on the side?
Consider an Asian cucumber salad, jasmine rice, or edamame for a fresh and balanced plate.
Is there a non-spicy alternative to wasabi?
Yes! Try a drizzle of citrus ponzu sauce or a sweet soy reduction for a mild option.
Want More Seafood Ideas?
If you love this Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a spicy, comforting dish.
• Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce for a luxurious seafood feast.
• Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp if you crave smoky, juicy skewers.
• Creamy Shrimp Chowder for cozy soup lovers.
• Famous Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi when you’re craving a restaurant classic at home.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra on the wasabi or stick to soy sauce? Did you serve it as an appetizer or make it part of a sushi platter?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter!


Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Appetizers
Description
This Ruth’s Chris Ahi Tuna recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. With a sesame-crusted exterior and a rare, buttery center, it’s a sophisticated appetizer perfect for dinner parties or special nights.
Ingredients
2 sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)
1/4 cup white sesame seeds
1/4 cup black sesame seeds
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp honey or mirin
1 tbsp neutral oil (canola or avocado)
Optional: wasabi paste or cream, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Pat tuna steaks dry with paper towels.
- Mix sesame seeds on a plate and press tuna into the seeds to coat all sides.
- Whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and honey/mirin for the sauce.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear tuna 30 seconds to 1 minute per side until sesame seeds are golden; center stays rare.
- Slice tuna into 1/2-inch thick pieces against the grain.
- Drizzle with sauce and garnish with green onions or cilantro
