California (Super Bowl) Love
I can’t decide if I am excited about the Super Bowl this weekend or not. The weather is going to be really nice. So, the idea of being outside is very appealing. Plus, I don’t really have a dog in the hunt. There are reasons to cheer for both teams since the 49ers didn’t make it. But, do I care enough to waste an 80-degree day?

The jury is still out. But, I am sure I will end up watching the game mostly for the halftime show, a few adult beverages, and the food…and because I have teenage boys.

Given the temps and the location of the game, I’m thinking margaritas and tacos for the game day nosh. But, you would never go wrong with wings and burgers. I even have the perfect burger. It’s a very “California” tuna burger that is just as satisfying as a beef burger.

The original Tuna Burgers recipe comes with an olive tapenade that is good. But, I like it better served with good quality tartar sauce or a lemon-herb aioli. Add your favorite chips or a salad on the side and you have a very LA feast. They would also be great as sliders.

Tuna Burgers Recipe
Adapted from Bobby Flay and the Food Network
Yields 4 servings

Ingredients
1-1/2 pounds fresh ahi tuna steaks
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon harissa
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Brioche hamburger buns, toasted
Good quality tartar sauce or Lemon Herb Aioli

Directions
Prep the tuna
Finely chop the tuna by hand (not in a food processor).

Make the patties
Combine the tuna, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, harissa, olive oil, honey, and green onion in a bowl. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.

Shape the chopped tuna firmly into 4 round, uniform patties about 1 inch to 1-1/2 inches thick. Place the patties in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. It is necessary to chill them so they keep their shape while cooking.

Cook the burgers
Grill burgers for 3 minutes on each side for medium doneness. You can also cook them in a pan on the stovetop.

To serve
Place the tuna patties on toasted buns and serve with your preferred sauce and accompaniments.