Go Back

Crudo

Crudo is an Italian seafood dish where raw fish or shellfish is dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and sea salt, showcasing the delicate flavor of pristine seafood. This minimalist appetizer can be prepared in minutes and offers restaurant-quality results without cooking.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 pound sushi-grade fish yellowtail, fluke, sea bass, or scallops, skin removed
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 lemons freshly squeezed (about 1/4 cup juice)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh herbs thinly sliced scallions, microgreens, or parsley
  • Lemon zest for garnish

Equipment

  • Sharp fillet knife or sashimi knife
  • Cutting board (preferably wood or plastic)
  • Small bowl for mixing dressing
  • Whisk or fork
  • Microplane zester (optional, for citrus zest)
  • Small spoon or demitasse spoon for serving
  • Chilled serving plates

Method
 

  1. Visit a reputable fishmonger and request sushi-grade fish for raw consumption. Ensure the fish smells briny and oceanic.
  2. Place serving plates in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to chill.
  3. Pat the fish dry with paper towels, then remove any skin, pin bones, or bloodline using a sharp knife.
  4. Slice the fish thinly at a slight angle, about 1/8 inch thick, dipping the knife in warm water between cuts.
  5. Arrange the sliced fish slightly overlapping on the chilled plates, leaving some white space for presentation.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Taste on a piece of fish and adjust seasoning.
  7. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the dressing over the fish slices on each plate.
  8. Scatter fresh herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon zest over the dressed fish as garnish.
  9. Serve immediately while the fish is cold and flavors are fresh and bright.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread or crostini to soak up the dressing. Pair with crisp white wines like Vermentino or Pinot Grigio. Customize with your choice of garnishes, and always use the highest quality olive oil for best flavor.