Salmon Tartare with Panzanella
Category: Appetizer
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon | 400g |
| Rice vinegar | 3 tbsp |
| Chives | q.b. (to taste) |
| Flaky sea salt | 1 tbsp |
| Black pepper | q.b. (to taste) |
| Lemon zest | 1 |
| Stale bread | 80g |
| Cherry tomatoes (datterini) | 200g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 200g |
| Fresh basil | q.b. (to taste) |
| Balsamic vinegar | 30g |
| Fine salt | 1 tsp |
| Ground chili powder | 1 tsp |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Salmon:
Start by ensuring you’ve purchased salmon that has been properly frozen (for safety when consuming raw fish). Slice the salmon fillet into thin strips, then cut them into small cubes. Transfer the cubes to a mixing bowl, and season with finely chopped chives, lemon zest, rice vinegar, flaky sea salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine all the flavors and set aside. -
Make the Croutons:
While preparing the tartare, cut the stale bread into small cubes (about 7-8 pieces per cube). Heat a bit of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the bread cubes, chili powder, and a pinch of fine salt. Toast the bread, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Turn off the heat and allow the croutons to cool. -
Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes:
Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and cut them in half. Transfer them into a bowl and add fresh basil leaves. If needed, clean the basil leaves using a damp cloth or wash them with cold water and pat them dry. Gently toss the tomatoes and basil together. -
Assemble the Panzanella:
Add the cooled croutons to the bowl with the tomatoes and basil. Pour in the water and balsamic vinegar, and give everything a gentle toss to combine. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. -
Serve the Salmon Tartare:
Place a round mold (approximately 9 cm in diameter) on a serving plate. Fill the mold with the prepared salmon tartare, pressing it down lightly with the back of a spoon to pack it into shape. Carefully remove the mold, revealing a perfect tartare tower. -
Final Presentation:
Spoon the panzanella mixture around the tartare on the plate. Serve immediately, and enjoy this light and flavorful appetizer!
Tip for the Perfect Salmon Tartare:
Always ensure that the fish is fresh and has been properly frozen to ensure safety when consuming it raw. The tartare can be paired with a refreshing white wine or a light sparkling beverage for an extra touch of elegance.
