Lomi salmon is one of Hawaii’s most traditional dishes—salted salmon “massaged” (lomilomi means to massage) with tomatoes and onions. Serving it on crispy taro chips gives this luau classic a modern pupu presentation that’s perfect for parties.

Lomi salmon came to Hawaii in the early 1800s when sailors introduced salted fish to the islands. Hawaiians transformed it into something uniquely their own, and it’s been a luau essential ever since—always served cold, always served fresh. For the traditional side-dish version, see our Lomilomi Salmon recipe.

Flat lay of lomi salmon ingredients including salted salmon, diced tomatoes, Maui onion, green onions, fresh taro root, and Hawaiian sea salt on a rustic cutting board
All the ingredients for lomi salmon on taro chips: salted salmon, fresh tomatoes, Maui onion, green onions, taro root, and Hawaiian sea salt

For Lomi Salmon

For Taro Chips

Prepare the Lomi Salmon (Start Day Before)

Shredded salmon being mixed with diced tomatoes and onions in a bowl using the traditional lomilomi massage technique
The lomilomi technique: gently massaging shredded salmon together with fresh tomatoes and onions

Make Taro Chips

Assemble

Finished lomi salmon on taro chips pupu platter with vibrant pink salmon, diced tomatoes, and onions served on crispy golden taro chips over crushed ice
The finished pupu: vibrant lomi salmon served on crispy taro chips, ready for the party

Tips

  • Keep it cold – Lomi salmon should always be served ice cold
  • Don’t over-salt – The salmon is already salty. Taste before adding more.
  • Fresh tomatoes – Ripe, firm tomatoes work best. Too soft and they’ll turn mushy.
  • Wear gloves for taro – Raw taro can irritate skin

Traditional Serving

At luaus, lomi salmon is traditionally served in a large bowl set in ice alongside poi, kalua pork, and other Hawaiian foods. The taro chip presentation modernizes it for pupus while honoring the flavors. It pairs beautifully with poke on any party spread.

More Hawaiian Pupus

Love island-style appetizers? Try these other favorites:

  • Spam Musubi – Hawaii’s favorite snack
  • Poke Nachos – Hawaiian-style nachos with fresh ahi
  • Hurricane Popcorn – Hawaii’s addictive furikake snack

This recipe is part of our Hawaiian Pupus Guide. Discover more island appetizers!