She Strengthens

Savoring the Flavors of the Sea: Ahi Tuna Burgers with Sesame Vinaigrette

When the richness of ahi tuna meets the brightness of fresh ginger and the nutty flavor of toasted sesame oil, a culinary masterpiece is born. This succulent burger is elevated by a zesty sesame vinaigrette that not only flavors the patty but also brings together the accompanying spinach salad.

Customizing Your Burger

Feel free to experiment with yellowfin tuna instead of ahi, which will yield a lighter color but retain the same great taste. You can also repurpose the vinaigrette as a dressing for other green vegetables like broccoli and green beans, serving them as refreshing room-temperature salads.

Yield and Ingredients

This recipe serves 4 people and requires the following ingredients:

Sesame Vinaigrette

• 1 garlic clove
• 1 slice peeled ginger, cut 1/2 inch thick
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar or cider vinegar

Tuna Burgers

• 1 large shallot
• 1 3/4 pounds ahi tuna, very cold and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons Sesame Vinaigrette
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 4 sesame seed buns
• 4 handfuls baby spinach

Crafting the Perfect Burger

To create the vinaigrette, combine the garlic and ginger in a food processor and process until finely chopped. Add the mayonnaise, sesame oil, lime juice, soy sauce, and vinegar, and blend until smooth. Set aside until needed.

Next, prepare the burgers by processing the shallot in the same food processor until finely chopped. Add the tuna and pulse until roughly chopped. In a large bowl, combine the fish mixture with the cilantro, vinaigrette, and pepper. Gently knead the ingredients together until evenly mixed. Shape the mixture into 4 evenly sized burgers about 1 inch thick. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking and Assembling the Burgers

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Brush the burgers on both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Cook the burgers, turning once or twice, until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes. Take care not to overcook them, as they should be rare to medium-rare.

Meanwhile, toast the buns in a toaster oven or under the broiler until lightly toasted. In a medium bowl, toss the spinach with half the reserved vinaigrette. Divide the spinach among the bun bottoms, followed by a burger and a spoonful of vinaigrette on top. Cover with the tops of the buns and serve immediately.