Salmon Tartare with Avocado

Name: Salmon Tartare with Avocado
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 200g fresh sushi-grade salmon, diced; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: World Favorites

I absolutely adore salmon tartare, especially when paired with creamy avocado. The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet light. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a delicious meal at home. I’ve experimented with different seasonings and toppings to find the perfect balance. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:38:47.244Z

When I first made salmon tartare, I was amazed by how simple yet elegant it could be. The key is to use the freshest salmon, as the quality of the fish really shines through in each bite. I like to add a squeeze of lime juice, which not only enhances the flavor but also adds a hint of brightness

After several attempts, I realized that mixing in diced avocados not only elevates the dish's creaminess, but it also adds a beautiful contrasting color. Using a sharp knife to finely chop the salmon ensures everything blends perfectly together, resulting in a delightful texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh salmon provides a clean and delicate taste
Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining

The Importance of Freshness

The success of salmon tartare hinges on using the freshest ingredients, particularly the salmon. Look for sushi-grade salmon, which is safe to consume raw and has a firmer texture. When selecting salmon, ensure it has a vibrant color and a clean ocean smell. Avoid any fish that appears dull or has a fishy odor. If possible, purchase it the same day as you plan to serve the tartare to maintain its delicate flavor.

Additionally, the ripeness of the avocado is crucial for achieving the right balance in this dish. A perfectly ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a creamy texture. If your avocado is under-ripe, consider letting it sit at room temperature for a day or two, but keep an eye on it to prevent over-ripening.

Elevating Flavors with Garnishes

While the base of the salmon and avocado combination is fantastic, adding garnishes can elevate the dish further. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy avocado and the rich salmon. Alternatively, thinly sliced radishes or cucumbers can offer a refreshing crunch and a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal of your tartare.

You might also consider serving the tartare alongside crispy wonton chips or tortilla chips. These not only add texture but also provide a lovely vessel for scooping up the salmon mixture, making it a more interactive dining experience.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious salmon tartare with avocado:

Ingredients

200g fresh sushi-grade salmon, diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your salmon tartare:

Prepare the Salmon

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced salmon, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, and red onion. Gently fold these ingredients together.

Add the Avocado

Carefully add the diced avocado to the salmon mixture, being cautious not to mash it. Fold gently until combined.

Season to Taste

Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust any other seasonings to your preference.

Plate and Serve

Spoon the salmon tartare onto a plate or into a small bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy immediately.

This dish is best served fresh, making it a great starter or light meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding diced cucumber or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before serving. Always taste your tartare before plating to ensure perfect seasoning!

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great aspects of salmon tartare is that it can be prepared in advance to save time. You can mix the salmon with the dressing ingredients a few hours ahead of serving—just be sure to add the avocado right before plating to avoid browning. Store the salmon mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for up to four hours without compromising freshness.

However, for longer storage, you can freeze the diced salmon. Ensure it's well-wrapped and use within two months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows you to enjoy fresh flavors even if you're occasionally caught short on time.

Serving Suggestions

Salmon tartare can serve as a sophisticated appetizer or a lighter main course. Pair it with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail for a perfect accompaniment. If you're hosting, consider serving the tartare on a small platter, allowing each guest to assemble their own bites by spooning it onto a chip or cucumber slice.

For a more complete meal, add sides like a simple mixed greens salad topped with a citrus vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing complements the fatty richness of the avocado and salmon, creating a balanced flavor profile that makes each bite enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, ensure that the salmon is properly thawed and sushi-grade for safety.

→ How long can I store leftover tartare?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to one day in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute the salmon with another fish?

Absolutely! Tuna or yellowtail can be great alternatives.

→ Is it necessary to add lime juice?

While it's not mandatory, lime juice brightens the flavor and helps prevent the avocado from browning.