Description
The Sweet Chermoula Tuna Tartare with Cucumber Noodles is a fresh and vibrant fusion dish featuring sushi-grade tuna marinated in an aromatic chermoula paste paired with crisp, low-carb cucumber noodles. This healthy and elegant appetizer offers a perfect balance of bold Mediterranean flavors and refreshing textures, making it ideal for light meals or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 oz sushi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
- 2 medium cucumbers, spiralized into noodles
Chermoula Marinade
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped or 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (for heat)
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Lemon zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumber Noodles: Use a spiralizer or vegetable peeler to create thin cucumber noodles. Place them in a colander, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel to keep the noodles crisp.
- Chop the Tuna: Cut your sushi-grade tuna into small, uniform cubes. This helps the flavors of the chermoula marinade coat every piece evenly and creates a pleasant texture when eating.
- Make the Chermoula Marinade: In a bowl, combine finely chopped cilantro, parsley, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are blended into a vibrant, aromatic paste.
- Marinate the Tuna: Gently toss the tuna cubes with the chermoula marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld without cooking the fish.
- Assemble and Serve: Place the cucumber noodles on a chilled plate or bowl, then spoon the marinated tuna tartare on top. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, lemon zest, or toasted nuts if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest experience.
Notes
- Use fresh sushi-grade tuna to ensure optimal taste and safety.
- Do not over-marinate the tuna; 15 minutes is sufficient to preserve texture and color.
- Dry cucumber noodles thoroughly to prevent a soggy dish.
- Serve the tartare chilled to enhance its refreshing qualities.
- Taste and adjust the chermoula marinade seasoning to balance acidity, salt, and spice before marinating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg