Salmon Crudo Recipe

This Salmon Crudo with Shallots is made with salmon, shallots, serrano peppers, lime juice, sesame oil, soy sauce, and ponzu sauce.

This salmon crudo with shallots is such a light and delicious appetizer that is perfect for date night or having friends over. It will always be a crowd pleaser and you will feel so happy with yourself when everyone is fighting over it! You will need sushi grade salmon for this, so go to a credible fish market or grocery store to get some. This is always something I order at most restaurants as an appetizer, which normally can be so expensive. Making this at home saves you money and, honestly, it tastes better!

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Tuna Tostada and my Salmon Sashimi.

Jump to:

• What is Salmon Crudo?
• Is salmon crudo raw?
• Where to buy salmon to eat raw?
• What is the best salmon for crudo?
• Salmon Crudo Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Salmon Crudo
• What to serve after Salmon Crudo
• What to drink with Salmon Crudo
• Substitutions
• Salmon Crudo Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Salmon Crudo
• Salmon Crudo Top tips
• Salmon Crudo Recipe with Shallots
• Food safety

What is Salmon Crudo?

Salmon crudo is a raw salmon dish that is thinly sliced and served raw, similar to sushi or sashimi. The salmon is typically served with a variety of sauces and accompaniments such as citrus juices, herbs, olive oil, salt, pepper, and vegetables. The dish is often served as an appetizer or a light main course in high-end restaurants, and it is popular among those who enjoy raw seafood. The dish is a great way to showcase the natural flavors and texture of fresh salmon and can be a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.

Is salmon crudo raw?

Yes, salmon crudo is a dish that typically involves serving raw salmon, thinly sliced or diced, often accompanied by various seasonings, sauces, and garnishes. "Crudo" is an Italian word that translates to "raw," and it is commonly used in the context of raw fish preparations. While the term is often associated with Italian cuisine, dishes like salmon crudo draw inspiration from various culinary traditions, including Japanese sashimi. It's important to note that consuming raw or undercooked fish poses certain food safety risks, so it's crucial to use fresh, high-quality fish and follow proper food safety guidelines when preparing and serving dishes like salmon crudo.

Where to buy salmon to eat raw?

When buying salmon to eat raw, it's crucial to choose high-quality, sushi-grade fish to ensure it meets safety standards for raw consumption. Here are some options for finding salmon suitable for raw consumption:

• Fish Markets or Seafood Markets: Visit a reputable fish market or seafood market in your area. These establishments often have knowledgeable staff who can guide you to sushi-grade fish. Look for markets that follow proper handling and storage practices.
• Japanese or Asian Grocery Stores: Some Japanese or Asian grocery stores carry sushi-grade fish. These stores may have a dedicated section for sashimi or sushi-grade seafood. Ask the staff for assistance or look for labels indicating suitability for raw consumption.
• Specialty or Gourmet Grocery Stores: Higher-end or specialty grocery stores may carry sushi-grade salmon. Again, ask the staff for guidance or look for labels indicating that the fish is safe for raw consumption.

What is the best salmon for crudo?

When preparing salmon crudo, it's essential to choose a high-quality salmon suitable for raw consumption. The best salmon for crudo is typically labeled as "sushi-grade" or "sashimi-grade," indicating that it has been frozen to specific standards to ensure it is safe for raw consumption. Here are some popular types of salmon that are commonly used for crudo:

• Wild-Caught Salmon: Salmon caught in the wild is often considered a top choice for crudo. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a clean, fresh flavor and a firmer texture. Common varieties include wild-caught sockeye, coho, or king salmon.
• Salmon from Sustainable Sources: Look for salmon that comes from sustainable and responsibly managed fisheries. This ensures that the fish is not only of high quality but also contributes to the overall health of the ecosystem.
• Scottish or Norwegian Salmon: Scottish and Norwegian salmon are known for their quality and are often used in raw preparations like crudo. These salmon varieties are farm-raised and carefully monitored to meet high standards.

Salmon Crudo Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Salmon
• Shallot
• Serrano
• Lime
• Sesame oil
• Soy sauce
• Ponzu sauce

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Salmon Crudo

Hint: Buy sushi grade salmon to eat raw from a good grocery store.

What to serve after Salmon Crudo

• Citrus Salad: A light citrus salad with segments of oranges, grapefruits, or blood oranges can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon. Add some fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for added flavor.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices can add a smooth and buttery texture to the meal, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and providing a mild flavor that complements the salmon.
• Pickled Vegetables: Pickled cucumbers, radishes, or other vegetables can bring a tangy and slightly acidic element to the plate, cutting through the richness of the salmon.
• Edamame or Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed or blanched edamame or asparagus can add a crisp and vibrant touch to the meal. They provide a mild flavor that won't overpower the delicate taste of the salmon.

What to drink with Salmon Crudo

• Dry White Wine: A crisp and dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Albariño, can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon. Look for a wine with citrusy or mineral notes to complement the flavors of the dish.
• Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The effervescence of Champagne or sparkling wine can cleanse the palate between bites and add a touch of elegance to the meal. Opt for a brut or extra brut style for a drier taste.
• Sake: A high-quality sake, served chilled, can be an excellent pairing with Salmon Crudo. Look for a clean and slightly dry sake to enhance the delicate flavors of the fish.

Substitutions

• Salmon: If you don't have fresh salmon, you can try using other types of fish, such as tuna, sea bass, or trout. Make sure to choose a high-quality, sushi-grade fish that is safe to eat raw.
• Citrus juice: Lemon or lime juice are the most common citrus juices used in salmon crudo, but you can also try using grapefruit, orange, or even yuzu juice for a more unique flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, parsley, or chives are often used in salmon crudo, but you can experiment with other herbs as well. Mint, tarragon, and basil are all good options.
• Vegetables: Thinly sliced vegetables such as jalapeño, cucumber, radish, fennel, or avocado can be used as a topping or accompaniment to the salmon. If you don't have fresh vegetables, pickled vegetables or even pickled ginger can add a tangy crunch.
• Sesame oil: You can buy sesame oil in the ethnic food section of your grocery store.
• Soy Sauce: I used light soy sauce instead of dark soy sauce.
• Ponzu Sauce: Ponzu sauce is basically a citrusy soy sauce, and it’s so refreshing to add in most dishes. If you can’t find ponzu sauce, just mix 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.

Salmon Crudo Recipe Variations

There are many variations you can make to salmon crudo to create different flavors and textures. Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy salmon crudo: Add a little heat to your salmon crudo by adding sliced chili peppers, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the dish.
• Asian-inspired salmon crudo: Use soy sauce, wasabi, pickled ginger, and sesame oil to create an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
• Mediterranean-style salmon crudo: Top your salmon with chopped tomatoes, red onions, and olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Citrus salmon crudo: Use a combination of citrus fruits, such as lemon, lime, and grapefruit, to give your salmon a bright and tangy flavor.
• Smoked salmon crudo: Substitute fresh salmon with thinly sliced smoked salmon and add some cream cheese and capers for a classic flavor combination.
• Fruity salmon crudo: Top your salmon with slices of fresh fruit, such as mango, papaya, or pineapple, for a sweet and refreshing twist.

Remember to use high-quality ingredients and keep the flavors balanced to create a delicious and unique salmon crudo dish.

Check out this Salmon Carpaccio.

Equipment

• Sharp knife: A sharp, non-serrated knife is crucial for thinly slicing the salmon.
• Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board will make it easier to cut the salmon into thin slices.
• Citrus juicer: If you're using citrus juice in your salmon crudo, a citrus juicer can make the process easier and more efficient.
• Mixing bowl: You'll need a mixing bowl to toss the salmon with the sauces and accompaniments.
• Serving plate: A large, flat serving plate can be used to present the salmon crudo.

How to store Salmon Crudo

Salmon crudo is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers or need to store it for a short time, here are some tips:

• Cover the salmon crudo with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Be sure to press the plastic wrap or lid directly onto the salmon to prevent it from coming into contact with air, which can cause it to oxidize and develop an unpleasant flavor.
• Store the salmon crudo in the refrigerator. Keep it on the bottom shelf, where the temperature is the coldest.
• Consume the leftover salmon crudo within one day. Do not keep it in the refrigerator for more than 24 hours, as the quality will deteriorate quickly.

Salmon Crudo Top tips

• Use high-quality, fresh salmon: Since salmon crudo is a raw dish, it's essential to use fresh, high-quality fish that's been properly handled and stored. Look for salmon that has a bright, vibrant color and a firm texture.
• Slice the salmon thinly and uniformly: Use a sharp knife and a steady hand to slice the salmon as thinly and uniformly as possible. This will ensure that each bite has a consistent texture and flavor.
• Keep it simple: Salmon crudo is all about showcasing the natural flavors of the fish. Keep the sauces and accompaniments simple and complementary, rather than overpowering.
• Chill the salmon before serving: Chilling the salmon for at least 30 minutes before serving will help to firm up the flesh and enhance its texture. You can place the salmon in the freezer for a few minutes if you're short on time.
• Experiment with different flavor combinations: While keeping it simple is key, don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Try different herbs, citrus juices, or spices to add a unique twist to the dish.
• Serve with a complementary wine: Salmon crudo pairs well with light-bodied white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in the wine will help to cut through the richness of the fish and complement its delicate flavor.
• Don't be afraid to get creative: While traditional salmon crudo is made with just a few simple ingredients, don't be afraid to get creative and try new things. Experiment with different sauces, toppings, or accompaniments to create a unique and delicious dish.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.