Elevate your meal with this flavorful Sicilian Rice Salad with Seared Tuna. Combining tender basmati rice, juicy tomatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and the zest of lemons, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is both light and satisfying. Paired with perfectly seared tuna steaks, it’s a nutrient-packed meal bursting with fresh flavors that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Sicilian Rice Salad with Seared Tuna
Course: MainCuisine: Sicilian, Mediterranean4
servings15
minutes20
minutes390
kcalThe combination of fresh seafood with fennel, capers, and tomatoes is typical of Sicilian dishes.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups uncooked basmati rice
3 lemons (zested and juiced)
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half
6 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch dice
1 red onion, peeled and finely diced
1 small fennel bulb, core removed, finely diced
3 tablespoons capers, drained
2 tablespoons marjoram leaves
2 one-inch-thick tuna steaks (1 1/2 pounds)
Olive-oil cooking spray
Directions
- Cook the rice: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the basmati rice according to package instructions. Once done, drain and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced yellow bell pepper, diced red onion, finely diced fennel, and drained capers.
- Make the lemon vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 lemons, lemon zest, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour the vinaigrette over the cooled rice and toss to coat.
- Add the fresh herbs: Stir in the finely chopped parsley and marjoram leaves. Gently fold the vegetable mixture into the rice until well combined. Adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to taste.
- Sear the tuna: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and spray it with olive-oil cooking spray. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper. Sear the tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden and the inside is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Assemble the dish: Serve the Sicilian rice salad on a platter or individual plates, topped with slices of seared tuna. Garnish with extra lemon wedges for added zest.
Notes
- Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Carbs: 40g
Sodium: 380mg
Protein: 32g
Fiber: 5g
This Sicilian Rice Salad with Seared Tuna is a perfect blend of light, fresh ingredients and rich, savory tuna. The lemony rice and crisp vegetables create a vibrant base for the beautifully seared tuna, making this dish ideal for a satisfying, nutritious meal. Enjoy the taste of Sicily in every bite!
