Salmon Tartare

Name: Salmon Tartare
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 300 g sushi-grade salmon fillet (skinless, diced); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp capers (rinsed and chopped); 1 tbsp shallot (finely chopped); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp chives (finely chopped); 1/2 tsp salt (to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

30 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Salmon Tartare

Fresh and zesty salmon tartare that's perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or light meal.

Prep

20 min

Total

30 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Salmon tartare is a dish that combines the freshness of raw salmon with the zest of citrus and herbs. It's a recipe that brings out the best in simple, quality ingredients, making it a favourite among seafood lovers. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a stunning visual on any dining table. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, salmon tartare highlights the natural flavours of the fish, accented by a few complementary ingredients. With the right technique, you can create a dish that rivals even those of star chefs.

Instructions

Prepare the salmon

Prepare the salmon Dice the sushi-grade salmon fillet into small cubes. Keep it chilled until ready to mix. Ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet before dicing.

Pro tip: Use a very sharp knife to ensure clean cuts without tearing the salmon.

Mix ingredients

In a large chilled bowl, combine the diced salmon, olive oil, lemon juice, chopped capers, chopped shallot, Dijon mustard, and chopped chives.

Pro tip: Chilling the bowl helps keep the salmon cool and firm during mixing.

Season the tartare

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently toss to combine.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, balancing the acidity and saltiness.

Let flavours meld

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the tartare sit in the refrigerator for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: This resting time allows the flavours to blend together beautifully.

Prepare for serving

While the tartare rests, prepare your serving plates with crisp crackers or toasted baguette slices.

Pro tip: Arrange the bread decoratively for a professional presentation.

Serve the tartare

Divide the salmon tartare among the plates, shaping each portion into a neat mound using a ring mould or spoon.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional chives or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flair.

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Tips & Tricks

Use sushi-grade salmon for the best flavour and safety.
Chill your mixing bowl for easier handling of ingredients.
Let the tartare sit for a few minutes to meld flavours before serving.
Serve with crisp crackers or toasted baguette slices for texture contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of salmon should I use for tartare?

Use sushi-grade salmon to ensure safety and optimal taste for the tartare.

How do star chefs make salmon tartare?

Star chefs use high-quality ingredients like sushi-grade salmon and balance flavors with acidity from lemon juice and capers.

Can I prepare salmon tartare in advance?

You can prepare the ingredients a few hours in advance, but it's best to mix them just before serving to maintain freshness.

How long can I store leftover salmon tartare?

Store leftover salmon tartare in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

What can I use instead of capers in salmon tartare?

If you don't have capers, you can use finely chopped pickles or olives as a substitute to add a similar briny flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To serve the salmon tartare, pair it with crisp crackers or slices of toasted baguette for added texture and flavour. You can also garnish with additional herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness. Make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. Ensure it's well covered to prevent any drying out. Remember, freshness is key, so enjoy it as soon as possible after preparation.