Raw salmon and cucumber salad

Raw Salmon and Cucumber Salad: A Refreshing Delight

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Introduction

Are you dreaming of a salad that combines freshness with refinement? The raw salmon and cucumber salad is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare, but it is also packed with flavors, perfect for warm days or an elegant dinner. Inspired by my experiences in an Asian restaurant, this salad combines raw salmon, a versatile and highly nutritious ingredient, with crunchy cucumber, bringing a touch of exoticism to your culinary life.

Recipe History

Salads with raw fish have a long tradition in gastronomy, being an integral part of many culinary cultures around the world. From sashimi to ceviche, the technique of marinating raw fish has been perfected over centuries. Salmon, in particular, is valued not only for its delicate taste but also for its nutritional benefits. This simple and flavorful recipe invites you to rediscover fresh ingredients and enjoy a healthy meal.

Ingredients

- 100 grams of raw salmon fillet (preferably high-quality salmon, easily found in specialty stores)
- 1/2 cucumber (choose a fresh, preferably organic cucumber for better taste)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (this will add a rich flavor to the salad)
- Juice of one lime (this ingredient will complete the marinade)
- 1/4 teaspoon of dried chili flakes (for a hint of spice, optional)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Salmon:
- Ensure the salmon is very fresh. Cut it into thin strips, about 1 cm wide. Use a sharp knife to achieve clean cuts. If you are not familiar with cutting fish, start with gentle, controlled movements.

2. Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the sliced salmon with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and lime juice. Gently mix to coat the salmon strips well in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. Marinating will not only intensify the flavors but will also 'cook' the salmon, making it tastier.

3. Preparing the Cucumber:
- Use a large knife to peel the cucumber. Remove the outer skin, then cut it lengthwise and scoop out the seed-filled core with a spoon. This technique, learned from sushi artisans, ensures a less watery salad. After removing the core, slice the cucumber into thin strips (julienne) for better integration into the salad.

4. Mixing:
- After the salmon has marinated for an hour, take it out of the fridge and add the cucumber strips to the bowl. If you choose to use chili flakes, add them now. Gently mix, being careful not to break the salmon strips.

5. Serving:
- Serve the salad immediately on a chilled platter. For an elegant touch, you can add diced avocado for extra creaminess or a few thin slices of fresh ginger for a burst of flavor. Give it a final sprinkle of freshly ground pepper for extra taste.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect as an appetizer or a light snack. You can pair it with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the delicate flavors of the salmon. It is also ideal for gatherings with friends or romantic dinners. Arrange it beautifully on the table and let your loved ones enjoy this refreshing delicacy.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving, making it a healthy choice for a light meal. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. Cucumber adds vitamins and minerals, being a hydrating ingredient, perfect for warm days.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use smoked salmon instead of raw salmon?
- Yes, smoked salmon offers a different flavor and can be an excellent choice if you're not comfortable with raw fish.

2. How can I adapt the recipe to be less spicy?
- You can omit the chili flakes and use fresh ginger, which adds a pleasant flavor without being too spicy.

3. What other ingredients can I add to diversify the salad?
- You can include avocado, grated carrot, or even mango for a sweet note.

Possible Variations

- With Avocado: Add diced avocado for an extra creaminess.
- With Ginger: Use a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh ginger instead of chili for a more subtle flavor.
- With Other Vegetables: Experiment with carrots or radishes for a contrast in textures.

Conclusion

The raw salmon and cucumber salad is a simple yet sophisticated dish that can transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. With simple preparation techniques and flavor combinations, you can impress anyone. Remember, the key to a successful salad lies in fresh ingredients and attention to detail. So, venture into this recipe and enjoy every bite! All the best and happy cooking!