Introduction
This delightful recipe for salmon with basil sauce and tomato salad combines fresh ingredients for a light and flavorful meal. Perfect for a summer dinner or any time you crave something healthy yet satisfying, this dish features tender salmon paired with a vibrant basil sauce and a refreshing tomato salad.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Salmon Fillets – 4 pieces (about 6 ounces each)
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper – ½ teaspoon
For the Basil Sauce:
Fresh Basil Leaves – 1 cup, packed
Garlic – 1 clove
Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup, grated
Pine Nuts – 2 tablespoons
Olive Oil – ⅓ cup
Salt – to taste
Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon
For the Tomato Salad:
Cherry Tomatoes – 2 cups, halved
Red Onion – ¼ cup, thinly sliced
Cucumber – 1, diced
Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon
Balsamic Vinegar – 1 tablespoon
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, take the salmon fillets and place them skin-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Season the Salmon
Season the fillets generously with salt and pepper. Optionally, you can also add a sprinkle of lemon juice for added flavor.
Bake the Salmon
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
Prepare the Basil Sauce
While the salmon is baking, gather ingredients for the basil sauce. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
Blend the Sauce
Process the mixture until smooth, making sure to scrape down the sides of the processor as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, possibly adding more salt or lemon juice based on your preference.
Make the Tomato Salad
In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together gently.
Serve the Dish
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Serve the salmon on plates, drizzled with the basil sauce on top. Accompany with the tomato salad on the side.
Notes
Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh basil and ripe tomatoes will enhance the overall flavor of the dish significantly.
Adjust Seasoning
Feel free to modify the level of seasoning based on your taste preferences. Extra lemon juice can provide a refreshing zest.
Storage Recommendations
If you have leftovers, store the salmon and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the salmon gently in the oven to maintain its texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Grilling Salmon
Grilling is a popular technique for cooking salmon, which enhances its natural flavors. Ensure the grill is preheated and oiled before placing the salmon skin-side down.
Making Basil Sauce
To make basil sauce, blend fresh basil leaves with garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. This method maximizes the aroma and flavor of basil.
Preparing a Tomato Salad
A fresh tomato salad can be prepared by slicing ripe tomatoes and combining them with olive oil, salt, and mozzarella cheese. This technique preserves the juiciness of the tomatoes.
Seasoning
Proper seasoning is key when cooking salmon. Use salt and pepper generously to enhance the dish’s flavor and to balance the richness of the salmon.
Plating
Presentation matters, so place the salmon on a plate alongside the tomato salad and drizzle the basil sauce over the fish for an attractive dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking for the best results.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use dried basil, but the flavor will be less vibrant. Consider using a higher quantity to compensate for the flavor difference.
Can I grill the salmon without skin?
Yes, you can grill skinless salmon. Just be careful as it can be more delicate and may require a grill basket to prevent it from falling apart.
How can I make the salad more filling?
To make the tomato salad more filling, you can add ingredients like quinoa, chickpeas, or avocado.
What are some good side dishes to serve with salmon?
Some great side dishes for salmon include roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a light rice pilaf.
Conclusion
The Salmon with Basil Sauce and Tomato Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The tender salmon pairs beautifully with the aromatic basil sauce and the refreshing tomato salad, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of salmon but also highlights the importance of using quality ingredients for a satisfying and nourishing dining experience.
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