Grilled Ahi Tostadas with Smashed Avocado and Fermented Cabbage

If you're looking for a bold, flavorful, and nutritious seafood dish, these Grilled Ahi Tostadas are the perfect choice. Featuring perfectly seared ahi tuna, creamy avocado, tangy sauerkraut, fresh cilantro, and crunchy pepitas, this dish delivers a delicious balance of textures and flavors. The combination of savory, smoky, and probiotic-rich ingredients makes this a healthy, gut-friendly meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether for a light lunch, dinner, or a show-stopping appetizer, these tostadas will impress!

Kitchen Equipment

Before you start, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Grill or Cast Iron Grill Pan – For perfectly seared ahi tuna.

• Tongs – To handle the tuna while grilling.Chef’s knife

• Chef’s knife & cutting board – For slicing tuna and prepping toppings.

• Mixing bowls – For preparing avocado mash and toppings.

• Small skillet – To toast pepitas (optional).

• Baking sheet (if toasting tortillas in the oven).

• Spatula – For flipping tortillas if pan-frying.

Ingredients (Serves 2-4)

For the Ahi Tuna:

• 2 ahi tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• ½ tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp ground cumin

For the Tostadas:

• 4 small corn tortillas

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for crisping tortillas)

For the Avocado Mash:

• 1 large avocado

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

Toppings:

• ½ cup sauerkraut (check out my recipe for a fresh, raw version to maximize probiotic benefits)

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 2 tbsp pepitas (aka pumpkin seeds), toasted

• 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)

• Extra lime wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Tuna Marinade

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin.

• Rub the marinade evenly over both sides of the ahi tuna steaks.

• Let the tuna sit for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Crisp the Tostadas

• Grill Method: Lightly brush tortillas with olive oil and place them on a hot grill for 1-2 minutes per side, until crisp.

• Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush tortillas with olive oil and place them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

• Pan-Fry Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and fry each tortilla for 30-60 seconds per side, until crisp and golden.

3. Make the Avocado Mash

• In a bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth but slightly chunky. Set aside.

4. Grill the Ahi Tuna

• Heat a grill or grill pan over high heat.

• Place the tuna steaks on the grill and sear for 1-2 minutes per side for a rare to medium-rare center. Adjust the time if you prefer a more cooked center.

• Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

5. Toast the Pepitas (Optional)

• Heat a dry small skillet over medium heat.

• Add pepitas and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and lightly golden.

6. Assemble the Tostadas

• Spread a layer of avocado mash on each crispy tortilla.

• Add slices of grilled ahi tuna on top.

• Spoon a small amount of sauerkraut over the tuna.

• Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and toasted pepitas.

• Add optional jalapeño slices for heat.

• Serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

Why You’ll Love These Grilled Ahi Tostadas

• High-Protein & Omega-3 Rich – Ahi tuna is packed with lean protein and healthy fats.
• Gut-Healthy & Probiotic-Rich – The sauerkraut adds beneficial probiotics for digestion.
• Bold & Fresh Flavors – A balance of creamy, tangy, smoky, and crunchy textures.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – Naturally fits into a variety of dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled ahi tostadas pair well with:

• A side of fresh mango salsa or pico de gallo.

• A light cabbage slaw with lime vinaigrette.

• A refreshing agua fresca or margarita to complement the flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Ahi Tostadas are a unique twist on classic seafood tacos, bringing together vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you're craving something fresh, protein-packed, or gut-friendly, this dish is a must-try.

Did you try this recipe? Let us know in the comments!

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