There’s something truly enchanting about the combination of fresh, sushi-grade salmon and the vibrant flavors of citrus. I first discovered Salmon Crudo while searching for a way to impress friends with minimal effort, and let me tell you, it quickly became a favorite! This dazzling appetizer highlights the buttery texture of raw salmon, dressed simply yet elegantly in a tangy citrus soy sauce that wakes up all the taste buds.

Imagine the thrill of a no-cook dish that not only tantalizes the palate but also makes you feel like a culinary expert. Ready in just a few minutes, this Salmon Crudo is gluten-free, low in lactose, and a delightful way to elevate your dining experience without the hassle. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is my go-to for a refreshingly light treat that’s bound to wow anyone who takes a bite. So let’s dive in and whip up this spectacular dish together!

Why is Salmon Crudo a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This dish requires no cooking, making it a hassle-free option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Freshness is key: Using sushi-grade salmon ensures every bite is rich and buttery, perfect for seafood aficionados.
Versatile beauty: Dress it up with avocado, sesame seeds, or even different types of fish like tuna for a delightful twist.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Its vibrant colors and zesty flavors always leave an impression at any gathering or dinner party.
Quick preparation: Ready in minutes, so you can focus on enjoying time with your friends and family rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
If this sounds appealing, don’t forget to serve it with a side of rice or toasted bread for a complete, satisfying experience!

Ingredients for Salmon Crudo

• Delight in creating this amazing appetizer with fresh ingredients!

For the Crudo

Raw Salmon (6-8 oz) – Provides the main protein and flavor base. Use sushi-grade salmon for best quality.
Shallot (1 very small) – Adds a mild onion flavor. Substitute with green onions for a milder taste.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Brings richness and depth to the dish. Choose high-quality EVOO for optimal taste.

For the Citrus Dressing

Lemon (½, juiced) – Adds acidity and brightness. Freshly squeeze for best flavor.
Lime (½, juiced) – Complements lemon with additional tartness. Freshly squeezed is ideal.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Introduces umami and saltiness. Use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and get ready for a delightful culinary experience with your fresh Salmon Crudo!

How to Make Salmon Crudo

Mince the shallot finely and set aside. This step adds a delicate onion flavor to your crudo, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Juice the lemon and lime into a measuring cup. Freshly squeezed juice is crucial for achieving that zesty bright flavor in your dressing.
Slice the salmon into ¼ inch thick pieces against the grain if not pre-sliced. Aim for thin, even slices for that melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Combine in a mixing bowl: shallot, lemon juice, lime juice, and soy sauce. Whisk until all ingredients are blended, creating the base for your flavorful dressing.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil onto a serving plate. This adds richness to the dish and serves as a base for your salmon.
Arrange the salmon slices attractively over the oil. Make it look beautiful and inviting, as this dish is as much about presentation as it is about taste!
Drizzle additional olive oil over the salmon and carefully pour the dressing around the pieces while avoiding direct contact with the fish. This keeps the salmon pristine and flavorful.
Garnish with sliced scallions or micro-greens, finishing with a sprinkle of flaky salt. This elevates the visual appeal and adds extra flavor nuances.
Serve chilled and immediately for the best experience. Enjoy the freshness and zing of your homemade Salmon Crudo right away!

Optional: Pair with a side of rice or toasted bread for a complete experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Salmon Crudo?

A vibrant, fresh meal deserves equally delightful companions to create a well-rounded dining experience.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch of toasted garlic bread adds a satisfying texture that beautifully contrasts with the tender salmon. Perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing!
Arugula Salad: This peppery salad adds a refreshing bite, balancing the richness of the raw fish with its lightness and fresh flavors. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice infuses a subtle sweetness, perfect for complementing the citrus notes in the crudo while providing a satisfying base.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc elevates the meal effortlessly, its acidity harmonizing with the citrus dressing and enhancing the salmon’s flavors.
Fruit Salsa: A bright fruit salsa—think mango or pineapple—introduces sweetness and integrates tropical vibes, enhancing each bite with lively flavors. A wonderful, sunny addition to the table!
Sesame-Cucumber Salad: The crunch and freshness of cucumber, paired with a tangy sesame dressing, creates a delightful side that’s simple yet delicious, perfectly pairing with the crudo’s richness.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and chewy quinoa, mixed with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime, makes for a hearty option, offering both nutrition and a subtle flavor profile to complement the dish.
Chardonnay Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing sorbet made with Chardonnay brings a fruity finish that’s light and elegant, cleansing the palate after the savory crudo.

Enjoy creating your perfect meal with these delightful accompaniments!

How to Store and Freeze Salmon Crudo

Room Temperature: Salmon Crudo is best served immediately after preparation to maintain its freshness and flavor; do not leave it out for more than 2 hours.

Fridge: If you have leftover crudo, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Consume it as soon as possible for the best textures and flavors.

Freezer: Avoid freezing Salmon Crudo, as freezing can compromise the delicate texture of the raw fish and its overall taste when thawed.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; serve your crudo cold straight from the fridge for the optimal experience.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Salmon Crudo in advance is an excellent way to simplify meal planning! You can slice the sushi-grade salmon, mince the shallot, and whisk together the citrus dressing up to 24 hours before serving. Keep the salmon tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness, and store the dressing separately to prevent the citrus from “cooking” the fish. When it’s time to serve, simply arrange the salmon slices on a plate, drizzle the olive oil, and pour the dressing around the pieces. Garnish as desired, and you’ll have a stunning, restaurant-quality appetizer ready with minimal effort and just as delightful as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Salmon Crudo

Quality Matters: Use only sushi-grade salmon to ensure safety and the best flavor. Purchase it from a trusted fish market or fish counter.
Keep it Chilled: Always keep the salmon chilled until you’re ready to prepare. This maintains its freshness and texture.
Adjust the Dressing: If the dressing is too sour, you can balance it out with a touch of honey or a pinch of baking soda.
Serve Immediately: For the best flavor and texture, serve the Salmon Crudo right after preparing it to avoid over-curing the fish from the citrus juice.
Garnish Creatively: Fresh herbs or edible flowers can brighten up the dish visually, making it as stunning as it is delicious.

Salmon Crudo Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this exquisite dish uniquely yours!

Different Fish: Substitute salmon with other sushi-grade fish like tuna or sea bass for varied textures and flavors. Each alternative brings its own unique profile to this vibrant dish.
Citrus Swap: Experiment with grapefruit or orange juice instead of lemon and lime for a sweeter twist in your dressing. These options can offer a whole new layer of citrusy bright flavor.
Add Creaminess: Top with avocado slices for a rich, creamy element that complements the fish beautifully. The buttery texture of avocado pairs perfectly with the raw salmon.
Heat It Up: Incorporate a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in your dressing for those who enjoy a bit of spice. The heat will elevate the zesty notes and add an exciting kick.
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish. They add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall palate delightfully.
Fresh Herbs: Use finely chopped cilantro or basil as a garnish instead of scallions. This change can add a fresh and aromatic layer to the dish, making it even more refreshing.
Vegan Option: Try marinating thinly sliced zucchini or cucumber in the citrus dressing for a plant-based twist. This creates a light, refreshing alternative that still captures the crudo essence.
Sweet Addition: Drizzle a bit of honey over the finished dish for a touch of sweetness that balances out the acidity. This offers a new depth that can enchant even the pickiest eaters.

Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing Recipe FAQs

What type of salmon should I use for crudo?
Absolutely! For the best results, use sushi-grade salmon, ensuring it’s fresh and safe for raw consumption. Look for vibrant color and avoid any pieces showing dark spots or discoloration.

How should I store leftover Salmon Crudo?
If you find yourself with leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume them within 1 day. This keeps the flavors fresh and maintains the delightful texture.

Can I freeze Salmon Crudo?
I recommend against freezing Salmon Crudo, as the delicate texture of raw fish can become compromised when thawed. Enjoy it fresh for the best culinary experience!

What if my citrus dressing is too sour?
Very good question! If you find the dressing too tart, consider balancing the flavor by whisking in a teaspoon of honey or a pinch of baking soda. This will help temper the acidity without sacrificing the overall flavor.

How long can I leave Salmon Crudo out at room temperature?
To keep it safe and enjoyable, avoid leaving Salmon Crudo out for more than 2 hours. Raw fish should always be handled with care to ensure quality and safety.

Is Salmon Crudo safe for my pet?
While some pets may enjoy small amounts of plain salmon, it’s best to consult your veterinarian before sharing raw fish. Salmon Crudo often includes dressing elements that may not be safe for pets.