EASY Ahi Tuna | Asian Cobb Salad on the Griddle

Why This Ahi Tuna Salad Rocks

Big Poppa here—this is my Asian Cobb salad with quick-seared ahi tuna on a hot griddle. Citrus-garlic Desert Gold seasoning, crunchy veggies, a sesame-ginger dressing, and silky slices of tuna make a fresh, protein-packed dinner that feels restaurant-fancy, backyard-easy.

Short on time? Use your favorite store-bought sesame-ginger dressing. Want to make it from scratch? A simple mix of soy, rice wine vinegar, honey, and sesame oil does the trick.

What You’ll Need

For the Tuna

• 1 to 1 1/4 lb ahi tuna steak (sushi-grade if serving rare)
• 1–2 tbsp Big Poppa Smokers Desert Gold Seasoning
• 1–2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado or canola)
• 2 tsp black & white sesame seeds (for finishing)

For the Salad Base

• 6 cups chopped romaine (or mixed greens)
• 2 cups broccoli slaw (cabbage + carrots)
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1 cup diced ripe mango
• 1 cup sugar snap peas, quartered
• 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1 cup thinly sliced red & yellow bell peppers
• 1 cup crispy chow mein noodles (for crunch)

For the Sesame-Ginger Dressing

• Store-bought sesame-ginger dressing or whisk:
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds

Step-by-Step: Easy Ahi Tuna (Griddle)

1) Toss the Greens

Add romaine and broccoli slaw to a bowl; drizzle a little dressing and toss to lightly coat. Arrange on a platter like a cobb: edamame, mango, snap peas, cucumber, peppers, green onions, and crunchy noodles in rows.

2) Season & Sear the Tuna

Pat tuna dry. Lightly oil, then season all sides with Desert Gold. Preheat griddle to high. Add a thin film of oil; sear tuna 60–90 seconds per side for rare (add 30–60 seconds per side for medium). Gently press for even contact—don’t squeeze out juices.

3) Finish & Slice

After the first flip, sprinkle black & white sesame seeds so they toast without burning. Rest 1–2 minutes; slice thin against the grain.

4) Dress & Serve

Lay tuna slices over the salad and drizzle with more sesame-ginger dressing. Serve immediately.

Serving Ideas

• Add avocado slices or pickled ginger.
• Swap mango for pineapple when in season.
• Leftovers? Wrap in tortillas or nori sheets for next-day rolls.

Shop Rubs & Sauces

FAQ

How done should I cook ahi tuna?

It’s best seared on the outside and rare to medium-rare inside (60–90 seconds per side). Cook longer if you prefer, but it can dry out.

Can I use a skillet instead of a griddle?

Yes—use a hot cast-iron skillet with a thin film of oil. Same timing applies.

What if I don’t have mango?

Use peaches, pineapple, or oranges—sweet fruit balances the sesame-ginger and savory tuna.

Is store-bought dressing okay?

Absolutely. A quality sesame-ginger dressing is great; the homemade version here is a quick backup.

Watch the cook: EASY Ahi Tuna | Griddle Recipe (YouTube)