Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This cold poached salmon recipe is your answer. It’s a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated appetizer. This recipe delivers a beautifully flaky salmon, bursting with flavor, without the fuss of complicated cooking techniques. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Poaching Liquid
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, white wine (if using), lemon juice, dill, parsley, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Don't let it boil vigorously – we want a gentle simmer to ensure the salmon cooks evenly and doesn't become dry.
Step 2: Poaching the Salmon
Once the liquid simmers, gently place the salmon fillet in the saucepan. Ensure the salmon is fully submerged. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the salmon poach for 8-10 minutes, or until it's cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillet; thinner fillets will require less time.
Step 3: Cooling and Serving
Carefully remove the salmon from the poaching liquid using a slotted spoon and place it on a plate to cool. Once cooled, you can either serve the salmon immediately or refrigerate it for later. This recipe is equally delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
Step 4: Seasoning and Serving Suggestions
Before serving, season the salmon with salt to taste. You can serve it simply with a side of lemon wedges or get creative! Some delicious accompaniments include:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted asparagus or other seasonal vegetables
- Quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal
- Creamy dill sauce
- Crusty bread for dipping in any leftover poaching liquid
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the salmon! Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a more lemony flavor, add more lemon juice.
- Save the poaching liquid! It's full of flavor and can be used as a base for soups or sauces.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the poaching liquid for a kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, tarragon, or chives.
- Citrus Twist: Add orange or grapefruit slices to the poaching liquid for a citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 200-250 Protein: 25-30 grams Fat: 10-15 grams
This cold poached salmon recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!