Salmon Ceviche Glass Noodle Salad

Beat the Heat with this Refreshing Salmon and Glass Noodle Salad

When the summer sun is blazing, the last thing anyone wants is to be stuck in a hot kitchen. This vibrant and flavorful salmon and glass noodle salad is the perfect solution, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that requires absolutely no oven time. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, this dish is sure to become a summer staple. The key to its unique appeal lies in the "cooked" salmon, achieved through a simple and effective technique that preserves the fish's delicate texture and flavor.

The Magic of Lime-Cured Salmon

Instead of traditional cooking methods, this recipe utilizes the power of lime juice to "cure" the salmon. The acidity of the lime juice denatures the proteins in the fish, effectively cooking it without the need for heat. This process results in a remarkably tender and flavorful salmon that practically melts in your mouth. The result is a light and refreshing alternative to cooked salmon, perfect for warm weather.

Ingredients for Two Servings

For the Salmon Ceviche:

• 300g sushi-grade salmon, ensuring the highest quality and safety for raw consumption.
• 1 small red onion, adding a sharp and pungent flavor.
• ½ bunch of radishes, providing a peppery crunch.
• Juice of 1 organic lime, essential for curing the salmon.
• Salt, to taste.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, for a nutty aroma and flavor.
• 1 red chili (optional), finely chopped, for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

For the Glass Noodle Salad:

• 1 ripe mango, offering sweetness and tropical flavor.
• 1 cucumber, providing a cool and refreshing element.
• 70g glass noodles, also known as cellophane noodles, providing a light and delicate base.
• 2 spring onions, thinly sliced, adding a mild onion flavor.
• ½ bunch of fresh coriander, chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 1 teaspoon each of white and black roasted sesame seeds, for added flavor and texture.

For the Dressing:

• Juice and zest of 1 organic lime, enhancing the citrusy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce, providing a savory umami element.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, adding depth and richness.
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder, for a warm and aromatic touch.

Preparing the Deliciousness: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Ceviche: Begin by cutting the sushi-grade salmon into small, bite-sized cubes, approximately 1 cm in size. Finely dice the red onion and the red chili (if using). Thinly slice the radishes. In a bowl, combine the diced salmon, red onion, chili (if using), and radish slices. Pour the lime juice over the mixture, season with salt to taste, and gently toss to combine. Allow the salmon to marinate in the lime juice while you prepare the salad. This marination process will "cook" the salmon and infuse it with the citrusy flavor.

2. Cook the Glass Noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the glass noodles and cook according to the package directions, typically for just a few minutes, until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: Wash the cucumber and use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin strips. Peel the mango, remove the pit, and slice the flesh into thin strips. Chop the fresh coriander and thinly slice the spring onions.

4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked glass noodles, cucumber strips, mango slices, chopped coriander, and sliced spring onions.

5. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger powder until well combined.

6. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated.

7. Plate and Garnish: Divide the dressed salad between two plates. Top each serving with the marinated salmon-onion-radish mixture. Sprinkle the white and black roasted sesame seeds over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Tips for Success

• Salmon Quality: Using sushi-grade salmon is crucial for this recipe due to the raw preparation method. Ensure that the salmon is fresh and has been handled properly.
• Lime Freshness: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lime juice, as it can have a less vibrant taste.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the chili altogether.
• Marinating Time: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure that it is properly "cooked" by the lime juice.
• Serving Suggestions: This salad is delicious on its own or can be served as a light lunch or dinner. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, to customize the salad to your liking.

Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful salmon and glass noodle salad – a perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal!