Elegant and refreshing, these Tuna Tartare Bites with Fennel and Citrus deliver refined flavor in a delightful presentation. Crisp wonton or phyllo cups cradle fresh sushi-grade tuna tossed with zesty citrus juices, shaved fennel, and fragrant dill—making them a perfect starter for dinner parties, cocktail hours, or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bite-sized appetizers are sophisticated yet simple to prepare. They feature a vibrant balance of acidity from lemon and orange, subtle sweetness from fennel, and the rich umami of fresh tuna. Not only are they visually striking, but they also offer a clean, refreshing taste that will impress any guest. Perfect for entertaining, they require no cooking and can be assembled quickly before serving.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz sushi-grade tuna, finely diced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon finely minced shallot
1 tablespoon shaved fennel bulb
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
12 mini crispy wonton cups or phyllo shells

directions

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Add the diced tuna, shallot, shaved fennel, and chopped dill to the bowl. Gently fold to combine all ingredients evenly.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover and chill the tartare for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
When ready to serve, carefully spoon the tuna tartare into the mini wonton cups or phyllo shells.
Garnish each bite with a small sprig of fresh dill. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 tartare bites, ideal for serving 4 to 6 people as an appetizer.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: About 25–30 minutes

Variations

Avocado Addition: Fold in finely diced avocado for creaminess.
Spicy Kick: Add a small amount of finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of sriracha to the tartare mixture.
Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil instead of olive oil and garnish with black sesame seeds and scallions.
Tropical Style: Substitute orange juice with lime juice and add diced mango for a fruity twist.
Cucumber Base: Serve tartare on cucumber slices instead of crispy cups for a lighter option.

storage/reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, the tartare mixture can be made up to 4 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Do not assemble the bites until just before serving to prevent the cups from becoming soggy. Leftover tartare should be consumed the same day and not reheated, as raw tuna is not suitable for storage or reheating beyond a few hours.

FAQs

Can I use canned tuna instead of sushi-grade tuna?

No, canned tuna is not suitable for tartare due to its texture and flavor. Only fresh, sushi-grade tuna should be used for this recipe.

Where can I buy sushi-grade tuna?

Sushi-grade tuna is available at specialty seafood markets or high-quality grocery stores with a seafood counter. Always ask the seller to confirm its safety for raw consumption.

Can I prepare the tartare mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to 4 hours in advance. Keep it chilled and covered until ready to serve.

How do I make crispy wonton cups at home?

Lightly press wonton wrappers into mini muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crisp. Let cool before filling.

What if I don’t have fennel?

You may substitute with thinly sliced celery or omit it altogether, although fennel adds a unique sweetness and crunch.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free phyllo cups or serve the tartare on cucumber rounds or gluten-free crackers.

What is the best way to dice tuna for tartare?

Use a very sharp knife to dice the tuna into small, even cubes, working with chilled fish for cleaner cuts.

Can I use lime instead of lemon and orange?

Yes, lime juice and zest can substitute for a more tropical or tangy flavor profile.

Is it safe to serve raw tuna?

Yes, as long as the tuna is labeled sushi-grade and has been stored and handled properly. Always keep it cold and use it within the same day.

Can I serve this on a platter for a party?

Absolutely. Arrange the filled tartare bites on a chilled serving tray and garnish with additional fresh herbs or citrus zest for presentation.

Conclusion

Tuna Tartare Bites with Fennel and Citrus are a refined and flavorful appetizer that combines the freshness of premium tuna with the brightness of citrus and herbaceous dill. Easy to prepare and stunning in appearance, these elegant bites are sure to impress guests at any gathering. For those who appreciate fine, clean flavors in a beautiful presentation, this recipe is an outstanding choice.