Simple Salmon

Just recently, I was asked what do with salmon fillets or how I want my salmon; what's my favorite salmon recipe? First off, it should be fresh so that even cooked in the simplest way; it is guaranteed to please even the pickiest palate. No one wants dry salmon. You can plate and garnish it beautifully but it will be revealed the moment you take your first bite if your fish is not done properly. I don't claim to cook the perfect salmon but so far, I've learned how to make it moist and delicious through simple steps and simple ingredients. Fresh is the word and with just one particular herb- I’m good to go with my quick and easy marinades which comes in three options.


Option 1
fresh lemon juice
Kikkoman soy sauce
fresh cracked black pepper
kosher salt
fresh rosemary

Method
Whisk together all the ingredients and marinate the fish before searing in the pan. The skin is crispy and the meat is so moist. I use non-stick pan and a mixture of canola and olive oil.


Option 2
balsamic vinegar
soy sauce
fresh cracked black pepper
kosher salt
fresh rosemary


Method
Whisk together all ingredients
Quick-marinate the fish in the mixture
Heat canola/olive oil mix in the pan
Sear the fish on both sides for two-five minutes depending on the thickness of the fish
Pour the marinade and just simmer the fish over medium low heat until cooked through

A dark crust will form outside the fish as the balsamic vinegar caramelizes but it's not bitter at all if you use a non-stick pan. It looks like blackened salmon but it's the balsamic vinegar that gives it a dark color. Inside is nothing short of moist deliciousness.


I was lucky to find beautiful salmon fillets on sale over the weekend but I only made it two-ways. Option 1 and 2. Funny but I forgot about option 3- I just remembered it now as I'm typing this ha ha. Kinda reminded me that I haven't had it forever. Now I feel like taking another trip to Vons to get more salmon.

Option 3
canola or olive oil
kosher salt
fresh Lemon juice
soy sauce
Dijon mustard

Method
Whisk together all ingredients then pour the mixture over the fish- either in a Ziploc bag or a bowl. Let it sit for half an hour then grill or bake or sear in the pan. Pour the marinade over the fish and let all flavors meld as it cooks. Serve with simple salad or pasta and enjoy!