Ingredients

12 plum tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped garlic
2 tablespoons chopped shallots
1 teaspoon chopped thyme
1/4 cup chopped basil
1/2 lb merguez sausage , casing removed
1/4 cup sherry wine vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped shallot
1 tablespoon capers
1 tablespoon tomato sauce
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons chopped chives
3 tablespoons canola oil
4 portions tuna
kosher salt , to taste
black pepper , to taste
1 cup za'atar spice mix
Za'atar-Crusted Tuna With Cured Tomatoes and Merguez Vinaigrette is a Mediterranean-inspired dish, with a mix of flavors and textures that culminate in a culinary masterpiece. The tuna is coated with a Middle Eastern spice mix called za'atar, which is made of toasted sesame seeds, dried oregano, sumac, and salt. The cured tomatoes provide a sweet and savory counterpoint to the spice, while the sausage vinaigrette adds a piquant and meaty flavor. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your guests.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 200 degrees F.
2.Slice the tomatoes in half lengthwise and place them cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3.In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, kosher salt, chopped garlic, chopped shallots, chopped thyme, and chopped basil. Drizzle the mixture over the tomatoes and toss to coat.
4.Place the tomatoes in the oven and bake for 2 to 3 hours, until they are dry and slightly puckered.
5.For the vinaigrette: In a small pan, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Pour off any excess fat and let the sausage cool slightly.
6.In a small bowl, whisk together the sherry wine vinegar, olive oil, chopped shallot, capers, tomato sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper.
7.Add the cooled sausage to the bowl and stir to combine.
8.For the tuna: Heat a large sauté pan over high heat.
9.Season the tuna with kosher salt and black pepper.
10.Pour the canola oil into the hot pan and add the tuna. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side for medium rare.
11.Remove the tuna from the pan and coat each piece with the za'atar spice mix.
12.Serve the tuna with the cured tomatoes and sausage vinaigrette.

PROS

This dish is packed with flavor and zest, with different elements that combine to create the perfect meal.

The tuna is a nutrient-dense protein, while the tomatoes and spices are full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

The vinaigrette adds a tangy and spicy note, elevating the dish to another level.

CONS

The preparation for this dish can take a while, since the tomatoes need to be cured and the vinaigrette cooked.
It is not a quick or easy meal to make, but it is worth all the effort.

Also, the recipe requires the use of merguez sausage, which may not be easily available in all regions.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is full of nutritional value and health benefits, making it a great choice for a balanced and wholesome meal. Tuna is a rich source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals, while tomatoes are loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin C. The za’atar spice mix is made up of different herbs and spices that have been linked to various health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation.

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