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a close-up of pounded tuna carpaccio with basil aioli, capers, and toasted crostini
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5 from 1 vote

Pounded Tuna Carpaccio

Prep Time25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Tuna Carpaccio:

  • 1 (6 to 8-ounce) fresh big eye or ahi tuna filet
  • 2 tablespoons minced red onion
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Flaky salt, to taste

For the Basil Aioli:

  • 2 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
  • Pinch of salt

For the Crostini:

  • 1 small French baguette, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • Extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

Pound the Tuna:

  • Slice the tuna lengthwise to create two thin fillets (like butterflying, but cutting all the way through).
  • Place a sheet of plastic wrap on a cutting board, lay the tuna on top, and cover with another piece of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, gently pound the tuna into a very thin, even sheet. Be careful not to over-pound—it’s delicate and should still hold its shape. Transfer the tuna to the fridge to keep chilled while you prep the rest.

Prepare the Onions:

  • In a small bowl, combine the minced red onion and lemon juice. This helps mellow the bite of the onion. Set aside to marinate.

Make the Basil Aioli:

  • In a small jar (using an immersion blender) or a mini food processor, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, basil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Set aside.

Toast the Crostini:

  • Preheat your oven to broil (or the highest heat setting).
  • Arrange the baguette slices on a sheet pan in a single layer. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Broil for 2 to 4 minutes, until golden and crisp—watch closely to avoid burning. Remove and let cool slightly.

Assemble & Serve:

  • Remove the tuna from the fridge and discard the plastic wrap. Transfer to a serving plate. Top with the marinated onions, including any remaining lemon juice.
  • Shave or sprinkle the Parmesan over the top. Drizzle generously with the basil aioli. Finish with capers and a sprinkle of flaky salt. Serve with the crostinis on the side and enjoy immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 221kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 508mg | Potassium: 106mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 98IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 84mg | Iron: 2mg