GRILLED TUNA NICOISE

Grilled Tuna Nicoise image

Provided by Robert Irvine : Food Network

Time 1h

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 17

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2 cups Chianti
2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
6 (6 to 7-ounce) tuna steaks
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
3 tablespoons capers, drained
1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 pound orzo pasta, cooked
1 cup spinach leaves
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/4 cup cooked and thinly sliced pancetta
1/4 cup grated Parmesan

Steps:

For the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the Chianti, vinegar, and sugar for 20 to 30 minutes, or until reduced by 80-percent total volume. Hold at room temperature.
For the tuna: Heat the oil in a large saute pan over high heat. Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides and add to the hot pan in 2 batches. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Flip the steaks, reduce the heat to medium-high, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the steaks from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice the steaks on the bias, 1-inch thick. Reserve the pan for the pasta.
For the pasta: Add the tomatoes, capers, olives, garlic, basil, and parsley to the pan and cook for 2 minutes. Add the orzo and spinach and cook for an additional minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter to finish the sauce.
To serve: Spoon the orzo onto plates, top with tuna, Parmesan, and pancetta, and drizzle with the Chianti glaze.