| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 345 | 13g | 3g | 5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 0g | 34g | 1.2g |
There’s nothing quite like the taste of our Grilled Salmon with Grains of Paradise. Simplicity merges with sophistication to create a dish that bursts with layers of flavor, yet remains easy to prepare. Each mouthful pays homage to my roots in the Rocky Mountains, and harks back to the many trout dishes of my youth, but with a fresh twist that seafood fans are bound to love.
A Tribute to Nature’s Pantry
Fruit-based in nature, this recipe harnesses the tangy richness of lemon, paired with the subtle, complex flavor of Grains of Paradise. Commonly found in West Africa, this delightful spice is slowly making its way into kitchens worldwide. Its peppery, slightly floral flavor provides an unexpected nuance to the fish, while a hint of citrus keeps things fresh and vibrant.
Preparing our Grilled Salmon with Grains of Paradise, I can’t help but feel a connection to my past, and to the wild, unspoiled landscapes of my mountainous homeland. It reminds me of family cookouts by the lake, where we’d fish for our meal and cook it right there on the spot, seasoning it with whatever we’d brought in our packs. The scent of grilling fish and the tang of lemon would intertwine with the crisp mountain air, creating a memory that still makes my mouth water.
Health benefits and Perfect Pairings
Of course, this dish isn’t just a balm for the soul. Salmon is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and protein. This recipe, with its abundance of lemon and fresh herbs, contributes vital antioxidants and vitamins. It’s delicious proof that great taste and health benefits can coexist beautifully on a single plate.
If pairing is on your mind, this salmon dish is versatile. It goes extremely well with a side of grilled vegetables or a vibrant salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try it with a creamy farro or a quinoa salad? Such options can round out your meal with a touch of hearty mountain fare.
In the world of seafood, our Grilled Salmon with Grains of Paradise stands proudly, more unique than traditional salmon and spinach recipes, yet able to hold its own against more complex dishes. On those chilly nights, let this hearty, deliciously seasoned dish transport you to the breezy, lakeside cookouts of a Colorado summer.
What You’ll Need
- 6 Salmon Fillets (6 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons of Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon of Grains of Paradise, crushed
- 1 tablespoon of Salt
- 1 tablespoon of Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoons of Lemon Juice
- Zest of 1 Lemon
- 2 tablespoons of Fresh Dill, chopped
- 6 Lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh Dill sprigs for garnish
Method
Step One
Preheat your grill to medium heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered in a light layer of ash. While waiting for your grill to heat up, prepare your salmon fillets.
Step Two
Place the 6 salmon fillets onto a tray. Drizzle the fillets evenly with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure both sides of the fillets are well-coated, this prevents them from sticking to the grill.
Step Three
In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of crushed Grains of Paradise, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of black pepper. Season both sides of your oiled salmon fillets with this spice blend.
Step Four
Squeeze 2 tablespoons of lemon juice evenly over the salmon fillets. Then, grate the zest of 1 lemon and sprinkle it over the fillets. Top each fillet with the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill for extra flavor.
Step Five
Grill the salmon directly on the grill grates for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked to your liking. Be gentle when flipping the fish to prevent it from breaking apart.
Step Six
Once all of your salmon fillets are cooked, remove them from the grill. Garnish each fillet with a wedge of lemon and a sprig of fresh dill before serving. Enjoy your Grilled Salmon with Grains of Paradise hot, with your favorite side dish.
