Classic Salmon Tartare

Salmon tartare is a delightful dish that blends the fresh flavors of the sea with a hint of zest from citrus and a tang from capers. It's a vibrant starter that's full of texture and taste, making it perfect for special occasions or intimate dinners. The tartare's flavors are enhanced by the balmy vinegar and the aroma from freshly ground pepper, while red onions add a subtle sweetness. This dish is simple to prepare and doesn't require cooking, making it a quick yet impressive appetizer. Ideal for seafood lovers, it pairs well with toasted bread or crackers. The freshness of the raw salmon is complemented by the tangy kick from lemon juice. The versatility of the dish means it can be adapted to various tastes, with potential for numerous variations. With just a few quality ingredients, this recipe focuses on bringing out the natural taste of the salmon. After a brief preparation, a beautiful plate of salmon tartare is ready to be served, promising a gourmet experience with every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

250 g salmon fillet
2 red onions
Capers
Lemon juice

Spices and Sauces

Balsamic vinegar
Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salmon: Begin by finely dicing the salmon fillet into small, even pieces. This may be the most time-consuming part, so take your time to ensure consistency.
Chop the Onions: Peel and finely chop the red onions. The pieces should be small to blend seamlessly with the salmon.
Slice the Capers: Roughly chop the capers into smaller pieces. They add a unique, tangy flavor to the dish.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced salmon, chopped red onions, and sliced capers.
Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, starting with a small amount and adding more to taste.
Season with Balsamic: Drizzle a small amount of balsamic vinegar for an acidic balance.
Season: Add salt and freshly ground pepper. Start with a little, and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon or your hands to gently mix the ingredients until well combined. The objective is to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Shape the Tartare: Use a tartare mold to shape the mixture on a serving plate. This will give the dish a professional look.
Press Firmly: Gently but firmly press the mixture into the mold to ensure it holds its shape when the mold is removed.
Remove the Mold: Carefully lift the tartare mold, leaving a neat, compact tower of salmon tartare.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional capers or a sprig of dill for color.
Serve with Toasts: Present alongside toasted bread or crackers. This adds a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the tartare.
Final Check: Taste the tartare one last time to check if it needs additional seasoning.
Adapt to Preferences: Feel free to adjust any ingredient amounts according to personal taste.
Chill If Needed: If not serving immediately, cover the plate with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator.
Presentation Tips: Consider serving on a bed of greens for added visual interest.
Pair with White Wine: A chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Serve Immediately: Best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Enjoy: Relish the combination of fresh flavors and textures.

Tips

Choosing Salmon: Always use fresh, sushi-grade salmon for the best and safest results.
Dicing Consistency: Aim for evenly sized pieces of salmon for uniform flavor and texture.
Acidity Balance: Adjust the lemon and vinegar to balance the tartare's acidity to your taste.
Serve Fresh: Salmon tartare is best made just before serving to ensure freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 187 per serving
Protein: 22 g
Fats: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g

Variations

Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill or cilantro for additional flavor.
Avocado Addition: Incorporate diced avocado for creaminess and texture.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped chili for some heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with finely diced raw beetroot or watermelon for a veggie twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside fresh salads or on top of sliced cucumbers for a refreshing touch.
Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Riesling.
Accompany with a light, crusty bread like ciabatta.

Best Places

Le Bernardin - Offers a sophisticated seafood experience. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
Nobu - Known for exquisite Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. Location: 105 Hudson St, New York, USA.
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon - Features innovative French dishes. Location: 5 Rue de Montalembert, Paris, France.
Osteria Francescana - A creative Italian dining experience. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
Sushi Saito - Celebrated for its exceptional sushi in a minimalist setting. Location: Akasaka Ark Hills, Tokyo, Japan.
Quintonil - Offers modern Mexican flavors. Location: Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.
El Celler de Can Roca - A family-run Spanish gem. Location: Carrer de Can Sunyer, 48, Girona, Spain.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal - Delivers a historical taste of Britain. Location: 66 Knightsbridge, London, UK.
Tetsuya's - Renowned for its Australian-French fusion. Location: 529 Kent Street, Sydney, Australia.
Alinea - Famous for its avant-garde approach to dining. Location: 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, USA.