Salmon Crudo

This simple and elegant recipe for Salmon Crudo showcases fresh salmon in the most delicious form. Salmon crudo is an Italian dish that combines very thinly sliced sushi-grade salmon, shallot and capers with a light dressing made with sesame oil, fresh lemon juice and garlic. 

​About the Recipe

Crudo is the Italian word for 'raw', and if you've never had it before, it's delicious! If you like sushi or other raw fish, you have to try this salmon recipe. The dish is light, healthy, and so delicious! The dressing is the perfect balance to the fish. You'll want to make it again and again!

This is an impressive dish that you will enjoy making for dinner parties, special occasions or for simple dinners at home. With its visually stunning appearance and delicate flavors this is the perfect appetizer that will definitely impress your friends and family.

We love making this for a light lunch on a hot summer day. Add everything to a serving plate and enjoy with a glass of white wine.

If you are looking for more salmon recipes, check out our: Salmon Quinoa Salad, Honey Citrus Salmon or Baked Pesto Salmon.

Jump to:

• ​About the Recipe
• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Directions
• Expert Tips and Tricks
• Kitchen Equipment
• Recipe Substitutions/Variations
• What To Serve With
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Recipe Storage and Reheating
• Other Recipes to Try
• Salmon Crudo

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Beautiful - The thinly sliced ribbons of salmon layered with the capers and shallot on a platter makes for an appealing presentation at any table. The elegance and sophistication of this dish make it perfect for dinner parties, anniversaries, or intimate gatherings where you want to impress your guests.

Refreshing - This refreshing and light recipe is ideal for the summer months when the weather is hot. The cool, raw salmon combined with the zesty dressing offers a refreshing respite from the heat. It is the perfect addition to your summer spread!

Healthy - Salmon is known for its many health benefits which promote heart health and overall well-being. This salmon crudo recipe, in particular, retains the nutritional integrity of the fish making it both nutritious and delicious! It's a guilt-free option if you are looking to incorporate more wholesome meals into your diet.

Ingredients

Here are the key ingredients you will need for this raw salmon dish: 

• Sushi Grade Salmon - Use thinly sliced high quality sushi-grade or sashimi-grade salmon.
• Shallot - You could also use thin red onion slices.
• Lemon - You will use both lemon zest and lemon juice.
• Capers
• Olive oil - Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Sesame oil
• Garlic
• Salt & black pepper

Directions

Let's make this quick salmon crudo together! 

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, sesame oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until fully combined.

Step 2: On a plate or serving platter, arrange the salmon pieces and shallot slices. Drizzle the dressing over the top.

Step 3: Top with lemon zest and capers and serve.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Here are some expert tips to make this raw fish dish: 

Dressing - Add all of the ingredients to a jar with a tight fitting lid and give it a good shake. This is a quick way to emulsify the dressing ingredients.

Salmon - Be sure to use the freshest and highest quality salmon you can find. Look for sushi-grade or sashimi-grade salmon which is safe for raw consumption and will have superior flavor and buttery texture. Make sure you cut very thin slices in the salmon to get the best texture in the dish.

Slicing - Use a very sharp knife and a gentle smooth motion to aim for thin and uniform slices. Cutting the salmon against the grain will help ensure a more tender texture.

Kitchen Equipment

Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this raw salmon recipe. You can find all of these products on Amazon.

Sharp knife - A sharp knife is essential in making sure you are able to get those thin, uniform slices of salmon.

Serving Tray - This set of serving trays is perfect for a variety of different dishes.

Recipe Substitutions/Variations

Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this simple recipe.

Salmon - If you would prefer the salmon to be semi-cooked, you could prepare this as a ceviche-inspired version. Simply marinate the salmon in citrus juices, like lemon juice, until it is opaque in color. Then prepare the recipe as it is written.

Shallot - Substitute the shallot with thinly cut red onion slices.

Garnish - Feel free to experiment with different garnishes like basil, dill or sesame seeds. Serve with lemon wedges for added color and flavor. 

Add some heat - If you would like this to have a bit of a kick, add some chili flakes.

Additions - You could add in soy sauce, ponzu sauce, rice vinegar, or lime juice to this recipe to kick up the flavor even more.

What To Serve With

Here are some recipes to serve alongside this easy salmon recipe:

Easy Garlic Bread - This recipe is so easy and it takes less than 20 minutes to make. Garlic, butter and bread never lets you down, right?

Burrata Salad - This simple and very delicious Burrata Salad is a combination of crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy burrata cheese. Topped with a tangy vinaigrette dressing, it is a refreshing and satisfying salad that is perfect as a meal or a side dish to your main course.

Limoncello Spritz - Limoncello Spritz is a super easy and refreshing cocktail. This Italian inspired drink is perfect for a summer cocktail!

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Storage and Reheating

Here are storage instructions for this salmon recipe:

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container and eat leftovers within 1 day.

Freezer Storage: Freezing is not recommended.

Other Recipes to Try

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