Name: Savory Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing in 10 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Sushi-Grade Salmon (Use high-quality salmon); 1 medium Shallot (Can be swapped with red onion); 1 whole Lime (Fresh lime juice preferred); 1 pinch Flaky Salt (Kosher salt works well); 1 pinch Freshly Grated Black Pepper (Freshly ground for best flavor); 2 tbsp Chopped Cilantro Leaves (Can be omitted); 1 clove Garlic Clove (Minced); 1 tbsp Grated Ginger (Fresh); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil); 1 tbsp Toasted Sesame Oil (For authentic taste); 1 tbsp Low Sodium Soy Sauce (Tamari is a gluten-free option); 1 tbsp Mirin (Mix rice vinegar with sugar if unavailable); 1 tsp Sriracha (Adjust for heat preference)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the faint aroma of garlic and ginger filled the air, instantly whisking me away to Japan’s bustling street markets. That’s when the idea struck—why not create my own stunning Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing? This dish is a celebration of fresh, sushi-grade salmon, elegantly paired with a zesty dressing that harmonizes bright citrus flavors with the warmth of sesame and ginger. Best of all, it comes together in just 10 minutes, making it a quick recipe that’s perfect for impressing both family and friends. With no cooking involved, you’ll find joy in every slice, whether served as an appetizer or a light meal. Ready to discover how easy it is to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive in!

Why is Salmon Crudo a Must-Try?

Quick Preparation: This Salmon Crudo is on your table in just 10 minutes—perfect for those busy evenings!

Fresh Ingredients: With sushi-grade salmon and vibrant toppings, each bite bursts with freshness that outshines any fast food.

No Cooking Required: Enjoy the simplicity of putting together a gourmet dish without turning on the stove.

Flavor Explosion: The zesty soy sesame dressing, combined with garlic and ginger, creates an irresistible flavor combination you won’t forget.

Versatile Serving: Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete experience!

Healthy and Delicious: Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings healthy fats and protein to your meal. You might fall in love with making other delightful seafood recipes like Honey Garlic Salmon Bites after trying this!

Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing Ingredients

• Gather everything you need for a fresh and vibrant dish!

For the Crudo

Sushi-Grade Salmon – Choose high-quality salmon for the best flavor and safety.
Shallot – Adds a lovely mild sweetness; can be swapped with red onion if desired.
Lime – Essential for brightness; always opt for fresh lime juice.
Flaky Salt – Enhances the dish’s flavors; kosher salt also works well.
Freshly Grated Black Pepper – Freshly ground pepper gives the best spice and aroma.
Chopped Cilantro Leaves – Offers a fresh herbaceous touch, but can be omitted for a simpler flavor.

For the Soy Sesame Dressing

Garlic Clove – Minced for a punch of flavor; don’t skip this!
Grated Ginger – Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth to the dressing.
Olive Oil – Helps emulsify the dressing; avocado oil can be a great alternative.
Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s crucial for authentic taste.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Keeps the sodium level in check; tamari is a gluten-free option.
Mirin – Infuses sweetness; if unavailable, mix rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar.
Sriracha – For a spicy kick; adjust the amount according to your heat preference.

Elevate your moments with this Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing recipe, where freshness and flavor meet in a delightful harmony!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon each of toasted sesame oil and low sodium soy sauce. Add 1 tablespoon of mirin and a drizzle of sriracha for heat. Whisk together until well blended and emulsified, about 1–2 minutes. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the salmon.

Step 2: Plate the Salmon
Select sushi-grade salmon and slice it thinly into even pieces, ideally about ¼ inch thick for the best texture. On a large serving plate, arrange the salmon slices in an attractive overlapping pattern, ensuring all the beautiful pink flesh is visible. The salmon should glisten when arranged correctly, showing off its freshness and quality—a crucial element in this Salmon Crudo.

Step 3: Top with Shallots
Take a shallot and slice it very thinly, aiming for paper-thin layers that release mild sweetness. Scatter the shallot slices evenly over the salmon, allowing them to intermingle with the fish’s richness. The translucent shallots will add a lovely visual appeal and flavor contrast, making the dish not only delicious but also stunning to behold.

Step 4: Dress the Dish
Using a small spoon or a drizzle bottle, carefully pour the prepared soy sesame dressing over the arranged salmon. Aim to cover each piece lightly, allowing the dressing to pool slightly around the salmon on the plate. This dressing will enhance the vibrant colors and add an enticing sheen, promising a burst of flavor in every bite of your Salmon Crudo.

Step 5: Finish & Serve
Cut a fresh lime in half and squeeze its juice generously over the entire dish, adding brightness to the rich flavors. Finish off with a light sprinkling of flaky salt and freshly grated black pepper for a delightful crunch. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves, which will provide a fresh herbaceous note, leading to a vibrant and refreshing presentation, perfect for serving immediately to impress your guests.

What to Serve with Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that accentuate this fresh and zesty dish.

Crispy Rice Crackers: Light, crunchy crackers complement the tender salmon, adding a satisfying texture that enhances each bite. They’re perfect for scooping and make a fun appetizer!
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A simple salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, lime dressing, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds offers a crisp contrast to the richness of the salmon, keeping your palate refreshed.
Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread adds a luxurious dimension, harmonizing beautifully with the flavors of the salmon crudo and offering a hearty base.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc can elevate the meal, with their crisp acidity enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.
Miso Soup: A warm, savory miso soup served alongside can create a comforting balance with the coolness of the salmon. Its umami depth complements the dish’s flavors delightfully.
Spicy Edamame: Tossed in sea salt and a hint of chili oil, these vibrant pods provide a fun finger food that mirrors the dish’s exotic flair while adding a protein-rich option.
Zesty Noodle Salad: A light noodle salad dressed in lime and sesame adds a little chewiness and further enhances the flavor journey, inviting you to explore contrasting textures as you savor each bite.
Sashimi-Style Ahi Tuna: For an adventurous twist, serving fresh slices of ahi tuna with a sprinkle of sesame and a drizzle of ponzu can further highlight the freshness and elegance of your meal.

Expert Tips for Salmon Crudo

Freshness Matters: Use high-quality sushi-grade salmon to ensure safety and optimal flavor. Always buy from a reputable source.

Slice Thinly: Cut the salmon into even, thin slices (about ¼ inch) for the best texture and presentation in your Salmon Crudo.

Chill Ingredients: Keep all components cold, including the serving plate. This enhances the dish’s refreshing taste and maintains fish quality.

Even Dressing: When dressing the salmon, drizzle evenly to avoid overwhelming any one piece; this ensures a perfect flavor balance in every bite.

Garnish Wisely: Use freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to omit or replace it with dill or chives.

Serve Promptly: Salmon Crudo is best eaten immediately after preparation to enjoy the freshness and prevent any degradation in quality.

Storage Tips for Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing

Fridge: Store any leftover Salmon Crudo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Consume promptly to enjoy optimal freshness.

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing Salmon Crudo, as the texture of the fish may degrade. However, if necessary, you can freeze sushi-grade salmon for up to 2 months before preparation.

Reheating: This dish is meant to be served cold. If you have leftovers, simply enjoy them straight from the fridge without reheating, keeping those fresh flavors intact.

Serving Tips: Serve the remaining Salmon Crudo chilled, pairing with fresh lime wedges or additional dressing for a delightful repeat of this beautiful dish.

Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe, adding your personal touch to make it your own!

Tuna Twist: Substitute sushi-grade salmon with sushi-grade ahi tuna for a delightful twist. This will give your dish a different flavor profile, keeping things exciting!
Herb Swap: Try using dill or chives instead of cilantro for a fresher taste. The different herbs can dramatically change the flavor experience, offering a new complexity to each bite.
Creamy Addition: Slice some avocado and layer it with the salmon for a creamy texture that complements the rich flavors. This adds a lusciousness that’s hard to resist.
Crunch Factor: Include thin slices of cucumber for added crunch and freshness. This can elevate the dish’s texture while enhancing its visual appeal with beautiful green accents.
Zesty Lemongrass: Incorporate finely minced lemongrass in the dressing for an aromatic flavor boost. It introduces a citrusy zing that beautifully complements the soy and sesame.
Fruity Flair: Add segments of fresh citrus like orange or grapefruit. Their juiciness balances the savory elements perfectly, creating a burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
Heat It Up: Mix in more sriracha for an extra spicy kick. If you love heat, this is a great way to take your Salmon Crudo to the next level.

For more delicious ideas, why not explore other recipes like Honey Garlic Salmon Bites that can introduce new flavors while keeping your love for seafood alive? Each twist can make your home cooking feel like a fantastic culinary journey!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing in advance is a fantastic way to save time, especially on busy evenings! You can make the soy sesame dressing up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and freshness. Additionally, you can slice the sushi-grade salmon and store it separately for up to 24 hours ahead as long as it’s kept properly chilled (at 40°F or below). When ready to serve, simply arrange the salmon on a plate, drizzle with the dressing, and finish with lime juice, salt, and pepper for a quick, impressive dish that remains just as delicious!

Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sushi-grade salmon?
Absolutely! When selecting sushi-grade salmon, look for fish that is bright in color and free from any dark spots or blemishes. The flesh should feel firm to the touch and have a fresh, ocean-like smell. Make sure to purchase from a reputable fishmonger, as quality is paramount for safety and flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Salmon Crudo?
For any leftover Salmon Crudo, it’s best to transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Make sure to consume it within 24 hours for the freshest taste. The flavors may intensify, but the freshness of the salmon is most enjoyable when eaten promptly!

Can I freeze sushi-grade salmon before making this dish?
Certainly! If you have sushi-grade salmon that you won’t use within a day, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Ensure the salmon is well wrapped in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before preparing your Salmon Crudo.

What do I do if my salmon isn’t slicing easily?
No worries! If you’re struggling to slice the salmon, try placing it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes until it’s firmer but not frozen solid. A sharp knife is crucial; a dull knife will tear at the fish rather than slice cleanly. Always aim for thin, even slices—this will ensure a tender mouthfeel and enhance your presentation.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Very! You can easily adapt this Salmon Crudo with Soy Sesame Dressing recipe for a gluten-free diet by substituting regular low sodium soy sauce with tamari. Additionally, be mindful of other ingredients like mirin; using rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar as a replacement works beautifully to keep flavors intact while ensuring they’re gluten-free.