TUNA~ GRILLED STEAKS WITH STRAWBERRY SALSA

		      Title: TUNA~ GRILLED STEAKS WITH STRAWBERRY SALSA
  Categories: Seafood -, Entrees
       Yield: 4 Servings
  
     1/4 c  Fresh basil leaves -- firmly
            Packed
     2/3 c  Mild olive oil
       2 tb Balsamic vinegar
       1 tb Soy sauce
     1/2 ts Fresh ground black pepper
     1/4 ts Sugar
     1/4 ts Salt
       4    Whole tuna steaks
            Strawberry Salsa
            *****GARNISH****
       4    Sprigs fresh basil
  
   Place the basil leaves, olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, pepper, sugar,
   salt and 2 tablespoons hot water in a blender and puree.
   
   Arrange the tuna steaks in a baking dish large enough to hold them in
   a single layer.  Pour the marinade over the fish. Cover and marinate
   for 3-4 hours in the refrigerator - turning the steaks occasionally.
   
   Prepare coals for grilling for preheat the broiler.
   
   Drain the tuna steaks and grill them over medium-hot coals or broil
   4-5 inches from he heat until charred on the outside but still pink
   in the center - about 3 minutes - turning the steaks once. Do not
   overcook. Remove from the heat and place the steaks on warmed dinner
   plates.
   
   Spoon the strawberry salsa over the tuna, garnish each with a sprig of
   basil and serve immediately.
   
   VARIATION: GRILLED TUNA WITH SAUTEED TROPICAL FRUITS: Marinate and
   grill the tuna steaks as directed above. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in
   a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add to the skillet 1/2 cup
   each: Diced fresh banana, pineapple, mango and papaya with 2
   tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon
   juice and 1 tablespoon sugar. Saute just until the mixture is heated
   through - about 30 seconds. Do not overcook.  Season to taste with
   salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spoon the sauteed fruit mixture
   over the tuna and serve immediately.