If you are craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to a true gem: Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing. This dish marries the tender silkiness of sushi-grade raw salmon with a zesty citrus soy dressing that brightens every bite. It’s light yet indulgent, perfect as a stunning appetizer or a refreshing main course that feels both elegant and effortless. Whether you’re treating yourself on a sunny afternoon or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe brings sophistication to your table with a surprising simplicity that’s hard to resist.

Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to making this dish a standout. Each component is carefully chosen to complement the silky salmon, enhancing its natural flavors without overpowering them. These ingredients provide the perfect balance of acidity, umami, and richness that make this dish truly shine.

Raw salmon (6-8 oz.): Look for sushi-grade salmon to ensure freshness and safe enjoyment of the raw fish.

Shallot (1 small, minced finely): Adds a subtle onion aroma and a mild bite that won’t overpower the dressing.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Use high-quality EVOO for a fruity, peppery richness that elevates the dressing and the fish.

Lemon juice (½ lemon, about 2 tbsp): Brings bright acidity that livens up the dish and balances the soy sauce’s saltiness.
Lime juice (½ lime, about 2 tbsp): Adds a slightly different citrus note that harmonizes perfectly with lemon and soy.

Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Provides an essential umami kick; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.

How to Make Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing

Step 1: Mince the Shallot Finely

Start by mincing the shallot as finely as possible. This ensures that it will blend seamlessly into your citrus soy dressing, delivering just the right hint of onion without overwhelming your palate.

Step 2: Juice the Citrus

Next, juice half a lemon and half a lime to yield around two tablespoons of each. The combination of these two citrus juices is what gives this dish its fresh and lively character, perfectly cutting through the richness of the salmon.

Step 3: Slice the Salmon Thinly

If your salmon isn’t pre-sliced, use a sharp knife to carefully slice it against the grain—perpendicular to those white lines you see in the flesh. Aim for thin slices about a quarter-inch thick to showcase the texture and allow the dressing to coat each piece beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Citrus Soy Dressing

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the minced shallot, lemon and lime juices, and soy sauce. This dressing is the soul of the dish, balancing brightness with a touch of savory depth.

Step 5: Assemble the Plate

Drizzle one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil onto the base of your serving plate—this will act as a luscious foundation for the salmon slices. Then artfully arrange the fish on top, creating an inviting presentation that’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

Step 6: Dress the Salmon

Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the salmon to add richness, then gently pour the citrus soy dressing around, but not directly on, the salmon slices. This method ensures that each bite has a perfect amount of flavor without sogginess.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finish your masterpiece by adding delicate garnishes like sliced scallions, chives, or microgreens. A sprinkle of flaky salt enhances the fresh flavors and adds a satisfying crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy it chilled for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can transform your Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing into an unforgettable experience. Think fresh herbs like chives or cilantro for color and freshness. Microgreens add a delicate earthiness and a pop of vibrant green, while a pinch of crunchy flaky salt elevates each bite with a delightful textural contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with light sides that won’t overshadow the delicate flavors. Try a crisp green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette or a bowl of edamame sprinkled with sea salt. For a bit of substance, a small serving of jasmine rice or a warm, crusty baguette makes an excellent partner to soak up every last drop of that irresistible dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel adventurous and change up your presentation by arranging salmon slices in a spiral or fan shape for a touch of elegance. Serve on a chilled marble platter to keep it cool longer, or use individual tasting spoons or small glasses for an impressive appetizer at your next dinner party. Adding edible flowers can also heighten the visual wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 24 hours. The raw fish is at its peak when fresh, so try to savor it quickly for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dish because raw salmon’s delicate texture and fresh quality are best appreciated fresh. Freezing can make the fish watery and diminish the bright flavors of the citrus dressing.

Reheating

Since this is a raw preparation, reheating is not suitable. To enjoy the dish’s signature freshness, it should be served chilled right after assembly.

FAQs

What type of salmon is best for Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing?

Sushi-grade wild or farmed salmon is ideal because it’s safe to eat raw and has firm, clean flesh that holds up beautifully in this preparation.

Can I substitute soy sauce with something else?

Yes! Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative with a similar flavor profile, or you can use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter and soy-free version.

How thin should I slice the salmon?

Slice the salmon about ¼ inch thick. Thin slices allow the dressing to coat each piece perfectly, highlighting the texture without overwhelming it.

Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the citrus soy dressing a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just whisk it again before serving to recombine the flavors.

What can I use to garnish if I don’t have microgreens?

Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley, cilantro, or even thinly sliced scallions work wonderfully, offering freshness and a pleasing color contrast.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that feels effortlessly elegant, and Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing fits that bill perfectly. It’s a celebration of fresh, quality ingredients coming together to create a burst of flavor and texture that’s hard to forget. I promise once you try it, this will become one of your go-to recipes for bright, light, and luxurious dining at home. So grab that fresh salmon and let the magic begin!

Salmon Crudo with Citrus Soy Dressing Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 12 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 10 minutes

Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

A fresh and elegant Salmon Crudo with a vibrant citrus soy dressing that highlights the delicate flavors of sushi-grade raw salmon. This light appetizer features a perfect balance of tangy lemon, lime, savory soy sauce, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil, making it an ideal dish for warm weather or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Crudo

6–8 oz. Raw salmon, sushi-grade, sliced
1 very small shallot, minced finely
2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high quality)

½ Lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
½ Lime, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
1 tbsp Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten free)

Sliced scallions, chives, or micro-greens (for garnish)
Flaky salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Prepare shallot: Mince one very small shallot as finely as possible to ensure it blends smoothly into the dressing without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.

Juice citrus: Juice half a lemon and half a lime to gather about 2 tablespoons each of fresh citrus juice, which adds bright acidity to the dressing.
Slice salmon: If your salmon isn’t pre-sliced, use a very sharp knife to cut raw, sushi-grade salmon against the grain (perpendicular to the white lines) into thin slices approximately 1/4 inch thick to maximize tenderness and presentation.
Make dressing: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the minced shallot, lemon juice, lime juice, and soy sauce to create a balanced citrus soy dressing.

Plate olive oil base: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil onto the serving plate to create a flavorful base for the salmon slices.
Arrange salmon: Carefully lay the salmon slices on top of the olive oil on the plate, arranging them aesthetically for an appealing presentation.
Top with olive oil: Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, or more if desired, evenly over the salmon pieces to enhance richness and mouthfeel.

Add dressing: Gently pour the prepared citrus soy dressing around the salmon slices without pouring directly on top, allowing the flavors to meld subtly.
Garnish: Sprinkle sliced scallions, chives, or micro-greens over the fish to add color, texture, and a fresh herbal note.
Add flaky salt (optional): For enhanced flavor and texture, optionally top the dish with a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving.

Serve chilled: Serve immediately, enjoying the crudo chilled to maintain the salmon’s delicate texture and freshness.

Notes

For the freshest taste, use sushi-grade salmon from a trusted source.
If avoiding soy, substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or omit for a lighter dressing.

Keep the salmon cold until ready to serve to prevent any loss of texture or flavor.
Use a very sharp knife to achieve clean slices and avoid tearing the salmon flesh.
Adjust the amount of olive oil and citrus juice according to taste preference for balance between richness and acidity.

Can be garnished with thinly sliced radishes or edible flowers for a more decorative presentation.
Consume raw fish dishes promptly for safety and optimal flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook

Cuisine: Japanese-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 oz (approximate portion of salmon)
Calories: 260

Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Fat: 18 g

Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
Trans Fat: 0 g

Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0.3 g
Protein: 22 g

Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Salmon Crudo, raw salmon, citrus soy dressing, sushi-grade salmon, no-cook appetizer, easy seafood dish, fresh salmon recipe