The heart of this dish lies in the magnificent chinook salmon, a prized catch known for its rich, buttery flesh and delicate flavor. Inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of the Mediterranean and Pacific Northwest, this recipe weaves together a symphony of tastes and textures.
Ingredients
Chinook Salmon Recipes Skipper Otto
Image Source: skipperotto.com
1 (1.5-2 lb) chinook salmon fillet, skin on
1 cup couscous
1 cup vegetable broth
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 lemons, zested and juiced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Total Time: 45 minutes
1. Prepare the Couscous:
Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a small saucepan.
Remove from heat and stir in the saffron threads.
Pour the broth over the couscous in a medium bowl.
Cover and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Stir in the dill, parsley, and lemon zest.
2. Season the Salmon:
Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
Place the salmon, skin-side down, in the hot pan.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the flesh is cooked through.
Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Make the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Plating: Serve the salmon over a bed of saffron-infused couscous.
Garnish: Drizzle the lemon-dill sauce over the salmon and couscous.
Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or a side of crusty bread.
A Culinary Journey
This dish is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. The delicate flavors of the Pacific Northwest, embodied by the chinook salmon, dance harmoniously with the vibrant spices and herbs of the Mediterranean. The saffron-infused couscous adds a touch of exotic elegance, while the bright, citrusy lemon-dill sauce balances the richness of the fish. It’s a dish that invites you to savor every bite, a journey of taste and culture.
