Tuna teriyaki kabobs are the ultimate combination of vibrant flavors and health benefits. These skewers deliver lean protein, colorful vegetables, and a perfectly balanced teriyaki marinade that makes every bite irresistible. They’re crisp, tender, and brimming with nutrients—all wrapped up in a dish that’s naturally gluten-free and packed with omega-3s.

We created this recipe to showcase how healthy eating can be satisfying and exciting. You’ll love how quick and easy this dish is to prepare, whether it’s for a nutritious weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing option at your next barbecue. By blending simple, whole-food ingredients with bold flavors, we’re proving that wholesome cooking doesn’t require compromise. Let’s dive in!
Why These Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs Are Good for You
- High in Protein: With 45 grams of protein per serving, these kabobs help support muscle building and keep you feeling full longer.
- Rich in Omega-3s: Tuna is an excellent source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and boost brain health.
- Loaded with Vitamins: The colorful vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immune function and healthy skin.
- Low in Calories: At only 389 calories per serving, this meal is perfect for weight management while staying satisfying.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: The simple, wholesome ingredients make these kabobs suitable for gluten-sensitive diners too.
Wholesome Ingredients for These Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs
Each ingredient in these kabobs was selected with nutrition and flavor in mind. Here’s a closer look at what makes this recipe so good for you:
- Tuna Steaks: This lean source of protein is not only low in saturated fat but also rich in omega-3s. Swap with salmon or tofu for variety.
- Red and Yellow Bell Peppers: These sweet and crunchy veggies are high in antioxidants like vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
- Fresh Baby Spinach: Packed with iron, folate, and fiber, spinach complements the kabobs as a fresh, nutrient-dense salad base.
- Homemade Teriyaki Marinade: Combining sesame oil, lime juice, soy sauce, and fresh ginger, this marinade enhances the dish with umami flavor while keeping it low in sugar compared to store-bought versions.
Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs Recipe Details
- Servings: 8 kabobs
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients for Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs
- 1-1/2 pounds tuna steaks, cut into 1-1/2-inch chunks
- 2 medium sweet red peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large sweet onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh gingerroot
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 package (5 ounces) fresh baby spinach
- 1 medium sweet yellow pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
How to Make Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs
- Thread the tuna chunks onto four metal or soaked wooden skewers. On four additional skewers, alternate threading the red peppers, yellow pepper, and onion pieces. Place the skewers in a shallow 13×9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, gingerroot, and garlic to create the marinade. Reserve half to use as salad dressing later, and pour the remaining half over the skewers. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat a greased grill to medium heat. Grill the vegetable kabobs first, turning them occasionally until they are crisp-tender (about 10-12 minutes). Add the tuna kabobs to the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the tuna is just slightly pink in the center for medium-rare. Move the tuna off direct heat to avoid overcooking while vegetables finish.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the spinach, cherry tomatoes, and reserved dressing. Serve the salad on plates, topped with one tuna kabob and one vegetable kabob for each portion.
How to Customize This Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs Recipe for Your Diet
- Low Carb: Skip the cherry tomatoes and use zucchini or mushrooms instead to reduce the carb count.
- Keto-Friendly: Add avocado slices to the salad for extra healthy fats and skip the soy sauce for coconut aminos.
- Vegan Option: Replace tuna with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein alternative.
- Nut-Free: Use avocado oil in place of sesame oil if nut allergies are a concern.
Our Team’s Tips for the Best Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Cut tuna and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- When grilling tuna, avoid overcooking—it’s best served medium-rare for tender, juicy results.
- Make the marinade a day ahead for even deeper flavor.
- Leftovers? Store kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold over the salad.
Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs FAQs
Can I bake tuna teriyaki kabobs instead of grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the skewers on a parchment-lined sheet for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
How do I choose the freshest tuna for kabobs?
Look for tuna steaks that are firm, bright red, and have no fishy odor. Ask your fishmonger for sushi-grade tuna for best results.
What should I do if I don’t have a grill?
A stovetop grill pan works beautifully! Heat over medium-high and follow the same cooking times as the outdoor grill.
Can these kabobs be frozen?
We don’t recommend freezing the assembled kabobs. However, you can freeze the tuna chunks and make the dish fresh when needed.
Are these tuna teriyaki kabobs meal-prep friendly?
Absolutely! Prep the vegetables, marinade, and cut the tuna in advance. When it’s time to cook, thread the skewers and get them on the grill in minutes.
Filled with bold flavors and a wealth of health benefits, these tuna teriyaki kabobs are the perfect addition to your weekly menu. What healthy recipe are you most excited to try this week? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this with anyone who loves nutritious, delicious meals!

Tuna Teriyaki Kabobs
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 pounds tuna steaks cut into 1-1/2-inch chunks
- 2 medium sweet red peppers cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large sweet onion cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh gingerroot
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 package (5 ounces) fresh baby spinach
- 1 medium sweet yellow pepper cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
- Thread the tuna chunks onto four metal or soaked wooden skewers. On four additional skewers, alternate threading the red peppers, yellow pepper, and onion pieces. Place the skewers in a shallow 13×9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, gingerroot, and garlic to create the marinade. Reserve half to use as salad dressing later, and pour the remaining half over the skewers. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat a greased grill to medium heat. Grill the vegetable kabobs first, turning them occasionally until they are crisp-tender (about 10-12 minutes). Add the tuna kabobs to the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the tuna is just slightly pink in the center for medium-rare. Move the tuna off direct heat to avoid overcooking while vegetables finish.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the spinach, cherry tomatoes, and reserved dressing. Serve the salad on plates, topped with one tuna kabob and one vegetable kabob for each portion.
