15-Minute Low Carb Soy-Marinated Tuna Poke Bowl

Prep: 15 min2 servingsmediumHawaiian
Low Carb Soy-Marinated Tuna Poke Bowl

Fresh sushi-grade tuna marinated in soy, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, served over cucumber and avocado with spicy mayo and optional garnishes. Bright, umami-rich, and protein-forward, this poke bowl suits quick weeknight dinners or light lunches. The raw preparation and minimal cooking make it ideal for those seeking restaurant-quality seafood at home with zero carb-heavy components.

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 10 oz sushi-grade tuna, cubed
    seared tuna, salmon, or firm white fish1:1preference

    cooking time varies

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup soy sauce, or tamari
    tamari1:1gluten-freegluten-freesoy-free

    source listed as option

    Full guide →
  • 2 tsp rice vinegar
  • ½ tsp sesame oil
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
    Greek yogurt3:4lighteradds dairy

    adds creaminess with less fat

    Full guide →
  • 1 tbs sriracha
    chili oil or hot sauce1:1alternative heat

    adjust to taste

    Full guide →
  • 1 avocado
    cucumber extranulllow-fat

    increases volume

    Full guide →
  • ½ English cucumber
  • 1 green onion
  • 4 slices fresh jalapeño(optional)
  • ¼ tsp sesame seeds(optional)
  • 1 tsp fresh cilantro leaves(optional)
  • ½ oz salmon roe(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl.

  2. 2

    Dice tuna into bite-sized cubes and stir into marinade. Let sit 10-15 minutes.

  3. 3

    Mix mayonnaise and sriracha in a small bowl.

  4. 4

    Slice cucumber, avocado, green onion, and jalapeño.

  5. 5

    Arrange cucumber and avocado on serving plate. Drain tuna and place in center.

  6. 6

    Top with green onion, jalapeño, and any optional garnishes.

  7. 7

    Drizzle with spicy mayo and serve immediately.

Tips

Tip 1

Use the freshest sushi-grade tuna available from a reputable fishmonger. If unavailable, substitute cooked tuna or firm white fish.

Tip 2

Drain tuna thoroughly after marinating to prevent a soggy bowl; pat dry with paper towels.

Tip 3

Assemble immediately before serving to keep avocado from browning and tuna at optimal temperature.

Good to Know

Storage

Tuna poke does not store well due to raw fish. Serve within 2 hours of assembly. Store marinated tuna separately in airtight container up to 24 hours.

Make Ahead

Marinate tuna up to 24 hours ahead. Prepare spicy mayo and slice vegetables up to 4 hours ahead. Assemble only when ready to serve.

Serve With

Serve immediately on chilled plates. Pairs well with sushi rice (if carbs desired) or standalone as keto/low-carb option. Serves 2 as main, 4 as appetizer.

Common Mistakes

Watch

Marinate tuna too long to avoid mushy texture; 10-15 minutes is optimal.

Watch

Skip draining tuna well to avoid a watery, diluted bowl.

Watch

Prep avocado far in advance to avoid browning; add last.

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Swaps

soy sauce
tamari1:1gluten-freegluten-freesoy-free

source listed as option

Full guide →

General Alternatives

mayonnaise
Greek yogurt3:4lighteradds dairy

adds creaminess with less fat

Full guide →
sriracha
chili oil or hot sauce1:1alternative heat

adjust to taste

Full guide →
tuna
seared tuna, salmon, or firm white fish1:1preference

cooking time varies

Full guide →
avocado
cucumber extranulllow-fat

increases volume

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use non-sushi-grade tuna?

Sushi-grade tuna is safest for raw consumption. If unavailable, briefly sear the exterior until opaque or use cooked tuna instead. Check with your fishmonger on safety.

What if I don't eat raw fish?

Sear tuna cubes 30-45 seconds per side for rare, or cook through. Substitute salmon, firm white fish like mahi-mahi, or grilled shrimp. Cooking times vary.

How long can I keep the marinated tuna?

Up to 24 hours refrigerated in an airtight container. Longer storage degrades texture. Drain before serving. Assembled poke should be eaten within 2 hours.