Salmon Tartare with Avocado

Name: Salmon Tartare with Avocado
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fresh salmon, diced; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped; 1 tbsp capers, roughly chopped; 1 tbsp lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Salmon Tartare with Avocado as it perfectly blends freshness and richness. The delicate taste of fresh salmon, paired with the creamy avocado, creates a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised by how simple it was to prepare while still impressing everyone at the table. The hint of lime juice elevates the flavors and keeps the dish light, making it perfect for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner party.

Created by

Honoria Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:13:37.690Z

When I first crafted this Salmon Tartare with Avocado, I was amazed by the exquisite combination of flavors and textures. The sweet, buttery flesh of the salmon, combined with the smooth creaminess of the avocado, creates a culinary symphony on the palate. One key tip I discovered is to choose the freshest salmon possible, as it truly makes all the difference in this dish.

Another aspect that sets this tartare apart is the bright, zesty finish from the lime juice. It enhances the flavors beautifully, giving a refreshing lift that balances the richness of the avocado. I also suggest serving it chilled, as the coolness complements the dish’s vibrant ingredients perfectly.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh salmon paired with creamy avocado for a delightful bite
Light and refreshing, perfect for warm evenings or special occasions
Easy to prepare, making it a perfect dish for entertaining

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

Salmon is not only the star of this tartare, but its freshness is vital. Choose sushi-grade salmon with a bright pink hue and a clean ocean smell. The texture should be firm yet tender; avoid any fillets that appear dry or have brown spots. The quality of the salmon directly impacts the dish, so visiting a trusted fishmonger can make a big difference in flavor.

The avocado adds creaminess and a buttery texture to the tartare. Make sure to select a ripe avocado that yields slightly to pressure. If your avocado isn't ripe, wrap it in foil and place it in a warm spot for a day or two, or speed up the process by placing it in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana.

Perfecting Your Technique

When combining ingredients, use a gentle folding technique to avoid mashing the avocado and salmon. The goal is to maintain distinct pieces for a pleasant texture contrast. If you overmix, it can become a mushy mess that lacks the fresh bite it should have. This step should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Using a ring mold for plating not only creates an impressive presentation but also helps maintain the shape of the tartare. If you don't have a ring mold, you can use a biscuit cutter or even the bottom of a glass. Just ensure it’s firmly pressed down to keep everything compact before lifting it off.

Ingredients

For the Tartare

8 oz fresh salmon, diced
1 ripe avocado, diced
2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp capers, roughly chopped
1 tbsp lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serve with tortilla chips or toasted bread.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the diced fresh salmon, avocado, red onion, and capers.

Season

Drizzle in the lime juice and gently fold the ingredients together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Plate the Tartare

Spoon the mixture into a serving dish or form into patties using a ring mold.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve promptly with tortilla chips or toasted bread.

Enjoy this fresh and vibrant dish at your next gathering!

Pro Tips

Use the freshest salmon available for the best flavor. If you prefer a bit more zing, you can add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Salmon Tartare with Avocado pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or crispy toasted bread, but you can elevate the dish further by serving it on cucumber slices for a gluten-free option. The cool crunch of the cucumbers complements the creamy avocado and rich salmon perfectly, making it a great choice for a summer gathering.

For an extra boost of flavor, try serving the tartare with a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of smoked sea salt before presenting it to your guests. The kick of heat or a hint of smokiness can create a delightful contrast to the tartare's fresh ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. Dice the salmon and avocado separately, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to a day. Wait to combine everything until just before serving to preserve texture and prevent browning of the avocado.

If you're planning on making a larger batch, consider doubling the other ingredients to maintain the salmon-to-other-ingredients ratio. However, it's not advisable to freeze the tartare, as the texture of the salmon and avocado will degrade upon thawing, resulting in a less appetizing dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it is well-thawed and has been previously frozen for safety.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ What is the best way to select ripe avocados?

Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.

→ Can I add other ingredients to the tartare?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced cucumber or even mango for an extra layer of flavor.