| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 500 | 30g | 8g | 9g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 2g | 40g | 0.75g |
One might think that my Colorado upbringing and game meat expertise wouldn’t lend themselves to a more delicate dish like the Za’atar Spiced Grilled Salmon, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Passion for culinary exploration is not bound by geography, and the ingredients for this recipe offer a fusion of flavors that are truly invigorating and refreshing, just like the pristine mountain air of my home state.
Taste & Texture
The Za’atar Spiced Grilled Salmon is a experience that delights all your senses. From its vibrant colors, to the tantalizing scent of za’atar that gently wafts off the grill, every element is a treat. Dig a little deeper, and your tastebuds will be regaled with a symphony of flavors. The light, flaky texture of salmon perfectly pairs with the bright pop delivered by the berries, peaches, and mint.
A Touch of the East
Za’atar, a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend involving sumac, sesame seeds, and herbs, is the star of the show here. Traditionally used to flavor meats and vegetables, za’atar delivers a deeply aromatic, tangy flavor, with a hint of nuttiness. It’s slightly exotic but not overly dominant, allowing each ingredient in the dish to shine. Recipes like this reminds me of our trips to Asia and the Middle East with Gordon, where we discovered new flavors and ingredients to bring back to our culinary laboratory.
Health Benefits & Pairings
But this recipe doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds—it’s also nutritionally balanced. Salmon, known to be rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, contributes to heart health. Fresh fruits, packed with vitamins and antioxidants, offer a myriad of health benefits. Moreover, olive oil provides healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties.
And for all the wine lovers out there –- this dish is the perfect match for a crisp white wine. I’d suggest a Pinot Gris to complement the zestiness of the Za’atar seasoned salmon, or a Sauvignon Blanc to balance the fruitiness of the side.
Creating recipes like the Za’atar Spiced Grilled Salmon is a testament to my belief that anyone can be a gourmet in their own kitchen. Good food, made with love, is the key to a joyful life.
What You’ll Need
- 6 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of za’atar spice blend
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon of grated lemon zest
- 1/2 cup of lemon juice
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 cups of assorted fresh fruit (such as blueberries, strawberries, peaches)
- 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves
Method
Step One
Start by pre-heating your grill to high heat. Place the salmon fillets on a plate and drizzle half of the olive oil over them. Sprinkle the za’atar spice blend and salt to taste over the salmon. Set aside for now.
Step Two
In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, grated lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill. This will be your lemon dressing.
Step Three
Grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until it is cooked to your liking. Make sure to turn it only once to avoid breaking the fillets. Remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step Four
While the salmon is resting, assemble your salad. In a large serving bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumber, fresh fruit, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh mint leaves. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Step Five
Place the grilled salmon fillets on top of the salad. Drizzle any remaining lemon dressing over the salmon. Serve the Za’atar Spiced Grilled Salmon immediately while it is still warm.
