Unlike other seasonings that get lost or overpower the delicate flavor of tuna, I found that the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 3.18 oz really stands out. The coarsely ground blend of pepper, salt, and garlic gives just the right flavor punch without masking the fish’s natural richness. It’s the perfect balance for grilling tuna to perfection—crusty on the outside, tender inside.
What impressed me most is how easy it is to apply and how consistently it enhances the tuna without overpowering. The seasoning’s bold yet refined profile helps create a crave-worthy crust while keeping the fish moist and flavorful. This makes it a top pick for anyone who wants a reliable, versatile seasoning that works beautifully on tuna steaks, and it’s my go-to recommendation after testing all these options. Trust me, it elevates your grilling game every time!
Top Recommendation: McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 3.18 oz
Why We Recommend It: This seasoning offers a standout blend of coarsely ground pepper, garlic, and salt, which provides a robust flavor that complements tuna steaks perfectly. Unlike others, it has no MSG and 25% less sodium, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor. Its coarse grind ensures a hearty crust, improving texture and taste during grilling. Overall, it balances quality, versatility, and health benefits—making it ideal for elevate tuna on the grill.
Best seasoning for tuna steak on the grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz – Best seasoning for tuna steak on the barbecue
- McCormick Grill Mates Everyday Grilling Spices, 4 Pack – Best value for versatile grilling spices
- McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 oz – Best seasoning for searing tuna
- McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 3.18 oz – Best seasoning for grilled tuna steak
- McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 10.5 oz – Best seasoning for tuna fillet on the grill
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, 11.62 oz
- ✓ Bold, flavorful blend
- ✓ Easy to handle and apply
- ✓ Great value for price
- ✕ Might be too salty for some
- ✕ Can burn if overcooked
| Net Weight | 11.62 oz (329 g) |
| Main Ingredients | Garlic, salt, paprika |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, smoky, with garlic and paprika notes |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
| Usage Recommendation | Ideal for grilling tuna steaks and other meats |
| Packaging Size | 11.62 oz (330 g) |
The moment I sprinkled the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning onto my tuna steak, I immediately noticed how vibrant and inviting the aroma was. The blend of garlic, paprika, and salt filled the air, making my mouth water before I even took a bite.
Handling the seasoning is a breeze thanks to its coarse texture, which clings well to the fish without falling off. It’s not overly salty, so I felt confident seasoning generously without worry.
When I threw the tuna on the grill, the spices sizzled and created a beautiful crust that had just the right amount of smoky flavor.
What surprised me most was how evenly the seasoning distributed across the surface, giving every bite a consistent punch of flavor. The garlic and paprika added depth without overpowering the natural taste of the tuna.
It’s perfect for those quick grill nights when you want something flavorful but not complicated.
Plus, the seasoning doesn’t burn easily, even if you like a slightly charred edge. It’s a versatile blend that works well with other proteins too, but I found it especially ideal on tuna when you’re craving that classic, bold profile.
For $7.24, it’s a great value for a reliable, flavorful seasoning that elevates your grilling game.
If you love a smoky, savory kick with your tuna, this seasoning will quickly become your go-to. Just keep an eye on the grill to avoid overcooking, but overall, it’s a simple way to turn a plain piece of fish into something special.
McCormick Grill Mates Everyday Grilling Spices, 4 Pack
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Versatile flavor options
- ✓ Great value for money
- ✕ Might be too bold for some
- ✕ Not specific for seafood
| Number of Spices | Four different seasoning blends |
| Packaging Size | Set of four 1.5 oz (42.5 g) jars (assumed typical size for spice sets) |
| Main Usage | Grilling and seasoning meats, vegetables, and other dishes |
| Flavor Profile | Bold, umami-rich flavors suitable for various grilled foods |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
| Price | USD 10.36 |
Many people assume that seasoned grilled tuna steaks need little more than a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt. But after trying the McCormick Grill Mates Everyday Grilling Spices on my latest tuna, I realized how much flavor a good spice blend can really elevate the dish.
This four-pack includes some of the most-loved seasoning options, and I found myself reaching for them again and again. The spices are well-balanced, not overpowering, yet bold enough to make each bite memorable.
What surprised me most was how versatile these seasonings are. I used the Roasted Garlic & Herb on my tuna, and it added a depth of umami that made the fish taste richer.
It’s perfect for those who want to enhance rather than mask the natural flavor of the seafood.
Applying the spices was straightforward—just a light rub before grilling, and they stuck well without burning. The aroma while grilling was inviting, and it gave my tuna a beautiful, flavorful crust.
Beyond seafood, I also tried them on roasted veggies and even mashed potatoes. The flavors are robust enough to stand out but still versatile enough to complement different dishes.
Plus, they come in handy for burgers, chicken, or even salads.
At around $10.36 for the set, it’s a great value. These spices have become my go-to for quick flavor boosts without fussing with marinades or sauces.
Overall, if you want to turn a simple tuna steak into a flavor-packed meal, these seasonings are a smart choice. They bring out the best in your ingredients and make grilling more exciting.
McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 3.1 oz
- ✓ Delicious garlic butter flavor
- ✓ Versatile for multiple proteins
- ✓ Easy to use and affordable
- ✕ Might be too salty for some
- ✕ Not enough for large quantities
| Net Weight | 3.1 oz (87.9 g) |
| Main Ingredients | Garlic, butter, spices |
| Serving Size | 1 to 2 tablespoons per 1 lb of food |
| Recommended Usage | Seasoning for beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetables |
| Packaging Type | Shaker bottle |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
Imagine expecting a simple seasoning, but then discovering a burst of garlic butter flavor that transforms your grilled tuna steak into something extraordinary. I was skeptical at first—how much difference could seasoning really make?
But after sprinkling just a tablespoon of McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning onto my tuna, I was hit with an unexpectedly rich, savory aroma that filled the grill area.
The blend of garlic, butter, and spices is surprisingly balanced. It doesn’t overpower the delicate fish but enhances it with a warm, flavorful crust.
The seasoning sticks well, even on the moist surface of tuna, giving each bite a consistent taste. I liked how versatile it was—perfect not just for tuna but also for chicken, beef, or veggies.
Using it is effortless—just shake and sprinkle. I found that 1 to 2 tablespoons per pound is enough to give a nice flavor boost without overwhelming the fish.
The aroma alone made my mouth water before I even took a bite. Plus, the price at just around $2.12 makes it an easy staple for any grill session.
What really surprised me was how it added a gourmet touch without any extra effort. No need to make a complicated marinade—this seasoning does all the work.
Clean-up was simple, and the flavor held up well through grilling. Overall, it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves a savory, buttery profile in their seafood.
McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning 3.18 oz
- ✓ Rich, bold flavor
- ✓ Coarse, hearty grind
- ✓ No artificial flavors
- ✕ Slightly salty for some
- ✕ Can burn if overcooked
| Main Ingredients | Coarsely ground pepper, salt, garlic |
| Net Weight | 3.18 oz (90 grams) |
| Sodium Content | 25% less sodium than original Montreal Steak Seasoning |
| Dietary Certifications | Kosher |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, spicy, with a coarse grind texture |
| Artificial Additives | No artificial flavors, no MSG added |
As I ripped open the bottle of McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, I immediately noticed how coarsely ground the spices are. It’s got that rugged, hearty feel that makes you want to sprinkle it generously over whatever you’re grilling.
When I first used it on a thick tuna steak, I was curious about how the seasoning would hold up on a fish rather than beef. I rubbed it in well, and the aroma was bold but not overwhelming.
It clung nicely to the surface, thanks to those larger spice granules.
During grilling, I followed the tip to start on indirect heat. It prevented sticking and gave me even cooking.
As I moved the tuna to direct heat, the seasoning developed a lovely crust without burning. The salt and garlic balanced the rich flavor of the fish perfectly.
The best part? The seasoning added a smoky, savory kick without overpowering the tuna’s delicate texture.
Plus, knowing it’s made with McCormick spices and has no MSG or artificial flavors gave me confidence. The 25% less sodium is a nice bonus for health-conscious grilling.
Overall, it’s a versatile, flavorful seasoning that elevates tuna steaks and other proteins without fuss. It’s become my go-to for grilling because it’s simple but delivers a punch of flavor every time.
McCormick Grill Mates Garlic Butter Seasoning, 10.5 oz
- ✓ Rich garlic butter flavor
- ✓ Easy to use and versatile
- ✓ Large size, great value
- ✕ Can overpower if overused
- ✕ Not suitable for very delicate fish
| Net Weight | 10.5 oz (297.7 g) |
| Serving Size | 1 to 2 tablespoons per 1 lb of food |
| Flavor Profile | Garlic, butter, and spice blend |
| Recommended Uses | Seafood (including tuna steak), beef, chicken, vegetables |
| Packaging Size | 3.3 times larger than 3.1 oz size |
| Brand | McCormick Grill Mates |
While seasoning my tuna steak on the grill, I unexpectedly reached for McCormick’s Garlic Butter Seasoning instead of my usual salt and pepper combo. The aroma alone was surprising—rich garlic with a hint of buttery spice that instantly made me curious.
The first thing I noticed was how evenly the seasoning clings to the fish. A quick shake, and it coated my tuna beautifully without clumping or falling off.
As it hit the grill, the garlic scent intensified, promising bold flavor.
Once cooked, the tuna had a perfectly savory crust. The garlic and butter notes really shined through, adding a depth I didn’t expect from a seasoning blend.
It made the fish taste indulgent, almost like I had brushed it with garlic butter directly.
What I loved was how versatile this seasoning is. Whether you’re grilling seafood, chicken, or veggies, it adds that irresistible garlic butter punch.
Plus, the size is generous—more seasoning for less money, which is great for frequent grill sessions.
However, be mindful not to overdo it. A little goes a long way, and too much can overpower the delicate flavor of the tuna.
It’s best to start with a tablespoon per pound and adjust as needed.
Overall, this seasoning elevates your grilled dishes with minimal effort. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves that buttery garlic flavor without the hassle of making it from scratch.
Perfect for quick, flavorful meals on the grill.
What Are the Best Seasoning Ingredients for Tuna Steak on the Grill?
The best seasonings for grilling tuna steak enhance its natural flavor while complementing its rich, meaty texture.
- Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavor of tuna steak. It helps to draw out moisture and intensifies the fish’s natural taste, making it a fundamental seasoning for any grilling preparation.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to the flavor profile of grilled tuna. Its aromatic quality pairs well with the fish, providing a balanced taste without overpowering the delicate nature of the tuna.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice brings brightness and acidity to tuna steak, cutting through its richness. Marinating the steak in lemon juice before grilling not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the fish.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory, aromatic quality to grilled tuna. It enhances the overall flavor with a slight sweetness and earthiness, making it a popular choice for seasoning seafood.
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce contributes a savory umami flavor that works beautifully with tuna steak. Its salty profile complements the fish, and using it as a marinade can infuse the tuna with rich flavor while also helping to create a nice crust when grilled.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil not only helps to prevent the tuna from sticking to the grill but also adds richness and moisture. Brushing the steak with olive oil before seasoning helps the spices adhere better and enhances the overall taste.
- Herbs (such as thyme or dill): Fresh or dried herbs can add a unique flavor dimension to grilled tuna. Thyme offers a subtle earthiness, while dill brings a fresh, bright note, both of which complement the natural flavors of the fish.
- Cayenne Pepper or Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, cayenne pepper or chili flakes can spice things up. These ingredients add a kick to the seasoning, enhancing the flavor profile while providing contrast to the buttery texture of the tuna.
Which Spices Work Best to Enhance Tuna’s Natural Flavor?
Several spices and seasonings can enhance the natural flavor of tuna steak when grilled:
- Salt: A fundamental seasoning that brings out the natural flavors in tuna steak, salt helps to enhance the umami taste. Using a coarse sea salt or kosher salt can create a delightful crust when grilled.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a sharp, aromatic kick that complements the rich flavor of tuna. Its slight heat balances well with the fish’s buttery texture, making it a perfect addition before grilling.
- Lemon Zest: The bright acidity of lemon zest can elevate tuna’s flavor profile, adding a refreshing note. Sprinkling zest before grilling not only enhances taste but also adds a fragrant aroma that pairs beautifully with the fish.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a savory depth to tuna steak, contributing a warm, earthy flavor. It’s a convenient way to infuse the fish with complexity without overpowering its natural taste.
- Cumin: Cumin offers a rich, nutty flavor that can add an exotic twist to grilled tuna. Its warm notes work especially well in spice blends or marinades, creating a unique flavor experience.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color to the tuna steak. Whether using sweet or smoked paprika, it enhances the visual appeal and adds a mild, smoky flavor that complements the fish.
- Herbs (such as dill or cilantro): Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can provide a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the tuna. Adding chopped herbs just before serving brightens the dish and enhances its aromatic qualities.
- Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, chili flakes can add a spicy kick to tuna steak. The heat from the flakes works well with tuna’s rich flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who like a little zest in their grilled dishes.
How Do Marinades Enhance the Taste of Grilled Tuna Steak?
Sweeteners contribute to the caramelization process during grilling, which can create a beautifully charred exterior while enhancing the flavor profile with subtle hints of sweetness. Lastly, umami boosters deepen the taste of the grilled tuna steak, making it richer and more savory, which is particularly appealing for fish lovers looking for a satisfying meal.
What Citrus Fruits Can Be Used to Brighten Up Grilled Tuna Steak?
The best citrus fruits to brighten up grilled tuna steak include:
- Lemon: Lemon juice adds a bright acidity that complements the rich, meaty texture of tuna. Its zesty flavor enhances the taste of the fish while also helping to tenderize it, making it a popular choice for marinades and dressings.
- Lime: Lime offers a slightly sweeter and more aromatic alternative to lemon, with a refreshing tang that pairs well with grilled tuna. The citrus notes of lime can lift the flavors of the dish, making it a great ingredient for sauces or as a finishing squeeze over the cooked steak.
- Orange: Orange brings a sweeter, more mellow citrus flavor to grilled tuna, which can balance the fish’s savory elements. Using orange zest or juice in a marinade or glaze adds a unique depth of flavor, making the dish more complex and enjoyable.
- Grapefruit: Grapefruit provides a bold, slightly bitter citrus flavor that pairs surprisingly well with tuna. Its distinct taste can enhance the overall profile of grilled tuna, and it works well in vinaigrettes or salsas that accompany the fish.
- Tangerine: Tangerines offer a sweet and fragrant option for seasoning grilled tuna. Their juice and zest can bring a gentle sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory aspects of the tuna, making them ideal for light marinades or dressings.
What Role Do Fresh Herbs Play in Tuna Steak Seasoning?
Fresh herbs play a vital role in enhancing the flavor profile of tuna steak seasoning when grilling.
- Basil: This herb provides a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that complements the rich taste of tuna. When used fresh, basil adds a vibrant aroma that can elevate the overall dish, making it more appealing.
- Cilantro: Known for its bright and citrusy notes, cilantro works exceptionally well with tuna, especially in Asian-inspired marinades. Its unique flavor can cut through the fish’s richness while adding a refreshing aspect to the seasoning.
- Dill: Dill has a distinct, slightly tangy flavor that pairs nicely with seafood, including tuna. It adds a fresh, clean taste and can enhance the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering them.
- Parsley: This herb is often used as a garnish, but its mild, slightly bitter flavor can also enhance tuna steak. Parsley adds a touch of brightness and can balance richer ingredients in the seasoning mix.
- Thyme: With its earthy and aromatic profile, thyme complements the hearty flavors of grilled tuna. It can add depth to the seasoning blend, enriching the overall taste experience.
- Oregano: Oregano’s robust and slightly spicy flavor works well with grilled meats, including tuna. It can bring a Mediterranean flair to the dish, making it a versatile option for seasoning.
How Should the Amount of Seasoning Vary Based on Tuna Steak Thickness?
The amount of seasoning for tuna steak should vary based on the thickness of the steak to ensure an optimal flavor profile and cooking experience.
- Thin Tuna Steaks (1 inch or less): For thinner cuts, use a light seasoning approach, such as a sprinkle of salt and pepper, to enhance the natural flavor without overwhelming it.
- Medium Tuna Steaks (1 to 1.5 inches): Medium thickness allows for more robust seasoning; consider using a marinade or a dry rub that includes herbs and spices, balancing flavor without overpowering the fish.
- Thick Tuna Steaks (over 1.5 inches): Thick steaks benefit from a generous application of seasoning, including a marinade or a crust of spices, as they can handle bolder flavors and need more time on the grill.
- Cooking Method Considerations: Adjust seasoning based on the cooking method; grilling can enhance the flavors, so a simple seasoning may suffice for thinner cuts, while thicker cuts might need more complex flavors to penetrate through.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, individual taste preferences should guide seasoning choices, allowing for experimentation with different combinations to find the best fit for your grilling style.
Thin Tuna Steaks (1 inch or less): For thinner cuts, use a light seasoning approach, such as a sprinkle of salt and pepper, to enhance the natural flavor without overwhelming it.
Medium Tuna Steaks (1 to 1.5 inches): Medium thickness allows for more robust seasoning; consider using a marinade or a dry rub that includes herbs and spices, balancing flavor without overpowering the fish.
Thick Tuna Steaks (over 1.5 inches): Thick steaks benefit from a generous application of seasoning, including a marinade or a crust of spices, as they can handle bolder flavors and need more time on the grill.
Cooking Method Considerations: Adjust seasoning based on the cooking method; grilling can enhance the flavors, so a simple seasoning may suffice for thinner cuts, while thicker cuts might need more complex flavors to penetrate through.
Personal Preference: Ultimately, individual taste preferences should guide seasoning choices, allowing for experimentation with different combinations to find the best fit for your grilling style.
What Techniques Can Be Used for Applying Seasoning to Tuna Steak Effectively?
There are several effective techniques for applying seasoning to tuna steak to enhance its flavor when grilling.
- Dry Rub: A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs applied directly to the surface of the tuna steak. This technique allows the seasoning to form a flavorful crust during grilling, providing a burst of flavor with each bite.
- Marinade: Marinating tuna steak involves soaking it in a mixture of oils, acids, and spices for a period of time before grilling. This method not only imparts deep flavors throughout the fish but also helps to tenderize it, making the steak more succulent.
- Brining: Brining involves soaking the tuna in a saltwater solution, often with added flavorings like herbs, garlic, or citrus. This technique enhances moisture retention and flavor, ensuring the tuna stays juicy and well-seasoned during cooking.
- Glazing: Glazing is the application of a sweet or savory sauce towards the end of grilling to create a flavorful coating. This technique allows for a caramelized finish that adds complexity and richness to the tuna steak.
- Injection: Using a flavor injector to introduce seasoned liquid directly into the tuna steak allows for deep flavor penetration. This technique is particularly useful for thicker cuts, ensuring that every bite is seasoned throughout.
- Seasoning Oil: Brushing the tuna with a flavored oil, such as garlic-infused olive oil or sesame oil, before grilling can add a subtle richness and help the dry seasonings adhere better to the surface of the fish.