Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing is a refreshing and elegant appetizer that requires no cooking. The raw, sushi-grade salmon is beautifully complemented by a zesty citrus soy dressing, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is simple to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering, and it’s sure to be a hit with seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing is light, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors. The combination of juicy, tender salmon with the tangy citrus and soy dressing is irresistible. It’s a perfect dish for a summer gathering, a dinner party, or just as a special treat for yourself. With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, this is one of the easiest, yet most impressive appetizers you can make.
Ingredients
6-8 oz. raw salmon (sushi-grade is best)
1 small shallot (minced finely)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (high quality EVOO)
½ lemon (juiced, about 2 tbsp)
½ lime (juiced, about 2 tbsp)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Shallot
Begin by mincing the shallot as finely as possible. - Juice the Citrus
Juice ½ lemon and ½ lime, making sure to catch any seeds. - Slice the Salmon
If your salmon is not pre-sliced, carefully use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain (perpendicular to the white lines). The slices should be about ¼ inch thick. - Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl or measuring cup, combine the minced shallot, citrus juices, and soy sauce. Whisk them together until well combined. - Assemble the Dish
On your serving plate, drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil on the base of the plate. Then, arrange the salmon slices on top of the olive oil in a visually pleasing pattern. - Add Olive Oil and Dressing
Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the salmon. Gently pour the citrus soy dressing around the salmon, ensuring it coats the plate but doesn’t pour directly on top of the salmon slices. - Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sliced scallions, chives, or microgreens. Optionally, you can sprinkle some flaky salt on top. Serve immediately and enjoy chilled.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 3 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- Toppings: Top the crudo with sesame seeds, radish slices, or a drizzle of sesame oil for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or a few slices of fresh chili for some heat.
- Fruit Twist: Garnish with thin slices of cucumber, avocado, or even grapefruit for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: This dish is best served immediately after preparing it. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 hours. The salmon should be eaten fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing: Freezing raw fish is not recommended unless it’s sushi-grade, and even then, it may affect the texture once thawed.
Reheating: This dish is meant to be served chilled, so it doesn’t require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of salmon for this recipe?
It’s important to use sushi-grade salmon for raw preparations like this one to ensure the fish is safe to eat raw. If sushi-grade isn’t available, ensure the salmon is fresh and properly handled.
2. Can I use tamari instead of soy sauce?
Yes, tamari is a great gluten-free substitute for soy sauce in this recipe.
3. What if I don’t have a shallot?
If you don’t have a shallot, you can substitute it with a small amount of finely minced red onion for a similar flavor, though it will be slightly stronger.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Salmon Crudo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and slice the salmon in advance. Just assemble everything right before serving.
5. How should I serve Salmon Crudo?
This dish is ideal as an appetizer or side dish. Serve it on its own or with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh salad.
6. Can I add more citrus to this dish?
Absolutely! If you like a more tangy flavor, feel free to add more lemon or lime juice to the dressing.
7. Can I use a different fish?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with another sushi-grade fish like tuna, yellowtail, or even scallops for a different flavor and texture.
8. What’s the best way to slice the salmon?
Use a sharp knife and slice the salmon against the grain, which helps maintain a tender texture. Try to keep the slices around ¼ inch thick for the best balance of flavor and texture.
9. Can I serve this dish with a side?
Yes, this salmon crudo pairs wonderfully with a crisp, fresh salad, light pasta, or even over a bed of greens.
10. Can I make this dish without the soy sauce?
If you prefer, you can omit the soy sauce and replace it with coconut aminos or a little extra salt for seasoning.
Conclusion
Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing is an easy, elegant dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s packed with fresh, bright flavors. The sushi-grade salmon pairs perfectly with the tangy citrus soy dressing, making it a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Simple to make, yet visually stunning and delicious!
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Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing is a stunning and simple appetizer that requires no cooking, yet looks and tastes incredibly impressive. The delicate slices of sushi-grade salmon are bathed in a zesty, tangy citrus soy dressing, creating a refreshing and elegant dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
6-8 oz. raw salmon (sushi-grade is best, sliced thinly)
1 small shallot (minced finely)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (high-quality EVOO)
½ lemon (juiced, about 2 tbsp)
½ lime (juiced, about 2 tbsp)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
Instructions
Prepare Shallot & Citrus:
Begin by mincing the shallot as finely as possible. Juice the lemon and lime to extract about 2 tablespoons each of juice.
Slice Salmon:
If your salmon isn’t pre-sliced, use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain (perpendicular to the white lines of the fish). The slices should be around ¼ inch thick.
Make the Dressing:
In a measuring cup or mixing bowl, combine the minced shallot, citrus juices, and soy sauce. Whisk them together until well combined.
Arrange Salmon on Plate:
Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil onto the base of your serving plate. Then, lay the salmon slices in a visually pleasing arrangement on top of the oil.
Dress the Salmon:
Drizzle the second tablespoon of olive oil (or more, if desired) over the top of the fish. Pour the citrus soy dressing gently around, but not directly on top of, the salmon slices.
Garnish & Serve:
Garnish the crudo with sliced scallions, chives, or microgreens for a fresh touch. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky salt for extra flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy immediately!
Notes
Serving Suggestions: This dish is perfect on its own as a light appetizer, or can be served alongside a fresh salad or other light sides.
Variations: You can also try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes for added texture and spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
