| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| 6 Salmon fillets (6 ounces each) | 1 cup Olive Oil |
| 1/2 cup Paracress, roughly chopped | 1 tablespoon Lemon zest |
| Salt to taste | Pepper to taste |
| 6 Lemon slices | 6 sprigs of Dill for garnish |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 360 | 24g | 4g | 5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 35g | 0.5g |
Few things bring me more joy than preparing and sharing nourishing meals with my family, like our favorite Grilled Salmon with Paracress Infused Oil. Having such a radiant, sun-kissed upbringing in the valleys of California, I have been constantly inspired by the freshness and vitality the Golden State has to offer. Drawing from this lifelong love affair with delectable, health-conscious food and my knack for traditional comfort cooking, this recipe wonderfully encapsulates what I consider to be the essence of West Coast cuisine. It’s a feast for the senses, with the visual appeal of the grilled salmon and the aromatic paracress-infused oil promising a rich, multi-layered flavor experience.
Rediscovering an Old Love
The story behind this exquisite dish is one of rediscovery. Just like the unique fusion found in so many of my recipes, the Grilled Salmon with Paracress Infused Oil is reminiscent of familiar meals from my childhood, reinvented with the freshness and simplicity of Californian ingredients. The salmon fillet, seasoned to perfection and grilled just so, reminds me of long summer nights spent by the grill, the sizzle of fish over hot coals filling the air.
Salmon: A Powerhouse of Nutrients
Of course, the appeal of this dish isn’t just sentimental – it also packs a massive punch when it comes to nutritional value. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and a plethora of essential vitamins and minerals. All of which make it an ideal main ingredient for those following a health-conscious diet.
The benefits don’t stop there. This recipe introduces an exciting addition, the paracress – also known as Spilanthes Acmella, a unique herb whose robustness complements the tender, delicate nature of the salmon. An excellent source of antioxidants and known for its immunity-boosting properties, paracress forms the backbone of the infused oil, adding depth to the flavor profile while promoting good health.
A Harmonious Fusion of Flavors
When served alongside an array of fresh salads or complemented with a crisp, California-inspired white wine, this dish fits perfectly into a balanced, vibrant menu. The zesty lemon slices not only offer a wonderful contrast to the richness of the salmon and paracress oil, but they also serve as a reminder of the lemon groves that are so iconic to my home state.
This recipe also has a beautiful likeness to the Mediterranean-style dishes that are seen throughout coastal communities, as the use of olive oil, fresh lemon, and grilling techniques reflects a sun-soaked lifestyle and a love for the ocean’s bounty.
Whether you’re exploring California-inspired recipes for the first time or looking to add to your existing repertoire, Grilled Salmon with Paracress Infused Oil is a delectable, healthy experience you shouldn’t miss. This is truly a dish that keeps me grounded in my roots, while celebrating the variety and richness of the ingredients favored by Californians.
What You’ll Need
- 6 Salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1 cup Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Paracress, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 6 Lemon slices
- 6 sprigs of Dill for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the paracress-infused oil. Take a saucepan and pour in the olive oil. Heat it over medium heat, but be careful not to let it smoke. Once it is hot, add the chopped paracress. Lower the heat and let it steep for about 15 minutes. Afterwards, strain the oil to remove the paracress pieces, retain the infused oil and set aside.
Step Two
Next, season the salmon fillets. Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each fillet. Also, zest a lemon and sprinkle the zest evenly over the fillets. This will give an additional zesty flavor to the salmon.
Step Three
Now, get your grill ready. Preheat it over medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are completely ashed over before you start grilling. Make sure your grill is clean and oiled to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Step Four
Start grilling the salmon. Place the fillets on the grill, skin side down. Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of your fillets and the heat of your grill. You’re aiming for a nice char on the outside, but a tender, flaky inside.
Step Five
While the salmon is grilling, reheat the paracress-infused oil. This will be drizzled over the salmon once it’s done for an additional flavor boost.
Step Six
When the salmon is done, remove it from the grill and plate each fillet. Drizzle the warm paracress-infused oil and serve with a slice of lemon and a sprig of dill for garnish.
