Seared Pepper Ahi Tuna with Cucumber Salad

Cucumber’s sensual flavor and cool texture will excite all of the
senses. The essences of Asia give the ahi tuna exotic appeal.

Ingredients:

1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced into thin round slices
1/4 red onion, chopped
1/2 cup rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 8-ounce ahi tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon coarsely cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon oriental sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons dry sherry
1 tablespoon chopped green onions

Procedu

Mix the cucumber, onion, vinegar, and sugar in medium sized bowl.
Cover and marinate for 30 minutes in refrigerator. Top with sesame
seeds when ready to serve.

Sprinkle tuna steaks on both sides with kosher salt and coarse black
pepper, pressing gently to adhere. Heat sesame oil in a large nonstick
skillet over high heat. Add tuna steaks and sear until brown outside
and pink in center, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer tuna steaks to
plates and keep warm.

Add soy sauce and sherry to same skillet. Reduce heat and simmer until
mixture is slightly reduced, about 1 minute. Spoon sauce over tuna
steaks. Sprinkle with green onions. Serve with cucumber salad.

Recipe compliments of Diane Brown, author of "The Seduction Cookbook,
Culinary Creations for Lovers"