Salmon Tartare with Avocado

Name: Salmon Tartare with Avocado
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz sushi-grade salmon, diced; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Highlighted under: Wellness Ideas

I absolutely love making Salmon Tartare with Avocado as it perfectly blends fresh, high-quality salmon with the creamy goodness of ripe avocado. The combination is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. We often serve it as a starter during gatherings, and it never fails to impress our guests. The freshness of the ingredients is key, and I always go for sushi-grade salmon to ensure the best taste and safety. It's quick to prepare and brings a touch of elegance to any meal.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:02:36.568Z

When I first experimented with Salmon Tartare, I was amazed at how well the flavors came together. Combining fresh salmon, creamy avocado, and a hint of lime zest creates a dish that dances on the palate. I discovered that opting for a finely diced preparation allows the textures to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.

One tip I learned is to marinate the salmon with a touch of sesame oil and soy sauce just before serving. It adds a depth of flavor that makes the tartare feel more gourmet. I remember serving it at a small dinner party, and it was the highlight of the evening!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously fresh flavors that are irresistible
Creamy avocado and tender salmon create a perfect texture
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for entertaining

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Salmon Tartare

To achieve the ideal texture in your Salmon Tartare, it's essential to choose sushi-grade salmon. This ensures the fish is fresh and safe for raw consumption. Additionally, when dicing the salmon, aim for uniform pieces about 1/4 inch in size. This not only influences presentation but also ensures an even marination. Use a sharp chef's knife to minimize tearing and maintain the salmon's delicate structure, which is crucial for a clean bite.

One of my favorite tips is to chill your mixing bowl and utensils in advance. This helps keep the salmon cool while you work, preserving its freshness. Marinating at a cooler temperature allows the flavors from the lime juice and soy sauce to infuse thoroughly without degrading the fish's texture. Remember, the key is to mix gently—over-mixing can break down the salmon too much and make it mushy.

Ingredient Insights

Avocado plays a pivotal role in this recipe, providing creaminess that balances the firm texture of the salmon. When selecting avocados, look for ripe ones that yield slightly to pressure but aren't overly soft. This ensures that your tartare has a rich, buttery flavor without falling apart. If you can't find ripe avocados, try storing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana; the ethylene gas produced by these fruits speeds up the ripening process.

The choice of lime juice is also critical—it brightens the dish and enhances the oceanic flavors of the salmon. Fresh lime juice is preferable over bottled versions, as it offers a vibrant acidity that complements the dish. If you're out of limes, consider using lemon or a splash of rice vinegar for a different yet equally delightful zing. Additionally, experimenting with herbs like basil or chives can add a fresh twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Salmon Tartare

8 oz sushi-grade salmon, diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips or crackers for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced salmon, lime juice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Gently fold the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to marinate for about 5 minutes.

Combine with Avocado

Add the diced avocado and chopped cilantro to the salmon mixture. Carefully combine to ensure the avocado stays intact while blending with the salmon flavors.

Serve

Serve the Salmon Tartare immediately with tortilla chips or crackers. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Pro Tips

Choose the freshest salmon you can find for the best taste. You can adjust the seasoning and lime juice to suit your preference. For an extra kick, consider adding chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Salmon Tartare, the presentation can elevate the entire experience. Using a ring mold for plating can create a stunning visual effect, showcasing the vibrant colors of the salmon and avocado. You can also add thin slices of radish or cucumber on the side for a refreshing crunch and contrast to the creamy tartare. Just make sure to drizzle a bit of sesame oil on the plate for an additional layer of flavor and elegance.

For those looking to add a bit more flair, consider offering a variety of dipping options alongside the tartare. Pickled ginger, wasabi, or even a sriracha mayo can enhance the dish and cater to different flavor preferences. Guests will enjoy customizing their bites, making the dish even more interactive and fun.

Preparing in Advance

While Salmon Tartare is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components in advance. Dice the salmon and avocado separately and keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon can be marinated slightly ahead, but I recommend waiting to mix it with the avocado until just before serving to maintain texture. This approach helps avoid browning and ensures the avocado stays creamy and intact.

If you're making this tartare for a large gathering, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Just remember to keep the same proportions. For a larger batch, prepare the tartare in a larger bowl and consider serving it buffet-style, allowing guests to build their own plates. This keeps the dish fresh and retains the individual flavors' integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for tartare?

It's best to use fresh sushi-grade salmon for tartare to ensure safety and taste. If using frozen, make sure it's safely thawed and sushi-quality.

→ What can I serve with tartare besides chips?

You can serve it with toasted bread, cucumber slices, or even over a fresh salad for a light meal.

→ How long can I store leftover tartare?

It's best to consume tartare immediately after preparation, but if stored in an airtight container, it may last up to 1 day in the refrigerator.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the tartare?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like diced cucumber, red onion, or even a bit of mango for a sweet twist.