What’s for dinner? We’ve partnered with the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries and fourth-generation fishmonger Laura Foley Ramsden to bring you delicious inspiration for preparing local seafood. Our cool, clear Massachusetts waters are alive with bluefin tuna—great news for local sportsmen, chefs, and adventurous home cooks alike!
Catching a bluefin is the ultimate test of skill and endurance. These powerful fish deserve respect, both on the line and on the plate. With its deep red color, rich flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, bluefin tuna shines best with a minimalist approach: a hint of citrus, a dash of salt, and just enough heat to awaken your palate.
This Bluefin Tuna Tartare recipe captures the essence of fresh, local seafood—no complicated techniques, just clean, bold flavors that let the fish speak for itself.
Ingredients
Serves 2–4 as an appetizer
- ½ lb fresh, sushi-grade local bluefin tuna, cubed
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1½ teaspoons soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon wasabi powder
- 6 dashes hot sauce (Tabasco or your favorite)
- A few drops of sesame oil (to taste)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the tuna.
Using a very sharp knife, cube the bluefin tuna into small, even pieces (about ¼-inch cubes). Place in a mixing bowl with diced avocado and chopped scallions. - Make the marinade.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, salt, soy sauce, wasabi powder, hot sauce, and sesame oil until well combined. - Combine.
Pour the marinade over the tuna mixture and gently toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add more lime or hot sauce if desired. - Serve.
Spoon the tartare into chilled bowls or mold into rounds using a ring mold. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately with crisp wonton chips, seaweed snacks, or cucumber slices.
Fresh, Local, and Wild-Caught
This recipe is all about celebrating the catch. If you’re lucky enough to land—or source—fresh Massachusetts bluefin, treat it with care and keep it simple. A well-prepared tartare is the perfect way to honor the fish and impress your guests.
Got a bluefin recipe of your own? Share it with us in the comments!
