How to Make a Japanese Seafood Salad with Fresh Fish
Creating a delectable Japanese seafood salad at home is an experience that tantalizes your taste buds while showcasing the freshness of the fish. This dish typically features a blend of fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing that encapsulates the essence of Japanese cuisine. Follow this simple recipe to prepare a refreshing Japanese seafood salad with fresh fish.
Ingredients
- 200g fresh sashimi-grade fish (such as tuna, salmon, or yellowtail)
- 150g cooked shrimp or prawns
- 1 cup mixed salad greens (such as arugula, lettuce, and spinach)
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1 radish, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon wasabi (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Seafood
Begin by ensuring your fish is fresh and sashimi-grade. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Use a sharp knife to cut the fish into bite-sized cubes. If using shrimp or prawns, peel and devein them if not already prepared.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds, dice the avocado, and thinly slice the radish. Chop the green onions and set all vegetables aside to ensure they’re ready for assembly.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or sugar, grated ginger, and wasabi (if using). Whisk the ingredients together until the honey or sugar is dissolved and the dressing is well mixed.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, layer the mixed salad greens as the base. Add the seafood, followed by the sliced cucumber, diced avocado, sliced radish, and chopped green onions. Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and vibrant.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and a touch of crunch. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Tips for the Perfect Japanese Seafood Salad
- Always use the freshest seafood available, preferably sashimi-grade for safety and the best flavor.
- Feel free to customize the salad by adding other seafood such as octopus or scallops, or including additional vegetables like bell peppers or seaweed.
- If you want a bit of spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy mayo.
This Japanese seafood salad not only provides a burst of flavor but is also visually appealing and healthy. Enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish at your next gathering!