What is tuna tartare made of?

Tuna tartare is made from sushi-grade raw tuna , usually Ahi or yellowfin, that’s finely diced and mixed with flavorful ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, ginger , and green onions . Many versions also include avocado , chili , or fresh herbs for added texture and taste. The goal is to highlight the tuna’s natural flavor while adding layers of umami and freshness.

Is tuna tartare completely raw?

Yes, tuna tartare is completely raw . It’s not cooked by heat or acid, unlike ceviche. That’s why it’s critical to use sushi-grade Ahi tuna , which has been frozen according to FDA guidelines to eliminate parasites. The dish is served chilled and should be eaten fresh—ideally within an hour of preparation.

Can Ahi tuna be eaten raw?

Absolutely. In fact, Ahi tuna is one of the most popular types of tuna served raw in dishes like sushi, sashimi, poke, and tartare. Just make sure it's labeled sushi-grade or sashimi-grade and purchased from a trusted source. Ahi's firm texture and mild flavor make it ideal for raw preparations.

What does tuna tartare taste like?

Tuna tartare has a buttery, clean, and mildly sweet flavor , with a smooth, silky texture. The seasoning ingredients—like soy, citrus, sesame, and herbs—add brightness and depth without overpowering the fish. If avocado is included, expect a creamy finish. It’s luxurious, refreshing, and perfectly balanced.

How long does tuna tartare last in the fridge?

Tuna tartare is best consumed immediately after preparation , but if needed, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours . However, texture and taste will decline quickly, and food safety becomes a concern beyond that point. For the best experience, make it fresh.

Can I prepare Ahi Tuna Tartare in advance?

You can prep some components (like chopping ingredients or mixing the sauce) in advance, but do not mix the raw tuna with the other ingredients until just before serving. This keeps the texture firm and prevents the acid from breaking down the fish. Always keep the tuna refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

Ahi Tuna Tartare – The Best Fresh & Flavorful Guide (2025)

Ahi Tuna Tartare Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn to prepare Ahi Tuna Tartare like a pro—safe sourcing, ingredient pairings, serving styles, and nutrition tips inside this 2500+ word guide.

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 appetizer servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

- 6 oz sushi-grade Ahi tuna, diced into small cubes

- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)

- 1 teaspoon sesame oil

- 1 teaspoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

- 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger

- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onion

- ½ avocado, diced

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: sesame seeds, microgreens, wasabi, sriracha

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Dice the tuna into ¼-inch cubes using a very sharp knife. Work quickly and return to fridge.

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.

1. Gently fold in the tuna cubes and stir until coated.

1. Add the green onions and avocado, stirring just to combine. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

1. Serve immediately over cucumber rounds, crispy wontons, or molded into a ring with microgreens on top.

Notes

Pro Tip: Chill your serving plates before plating for a more elevated presentation.

Author: Sarah
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 appetizer servings