| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 402 | 28g | 6g | 2g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 34g | 0.83g |
As breezy as an afternoon on the Atlantic seashore, the dish I’m about to share with you embodies all the flavours I adore in New England cuisine, mingled with an unexpected herbaceous zest. Today, we’re going to talk about Grilled Salmon with Perilla Salsa Verde, a symphony of flavours that will, without question, transform your perception of seafood dishes.
The Freshness of the Sea with a Herbal Burst
Head-centered around the rich, buttery taste of salmon, this dish imparts a bite that sings of the ocean. In my family, we’ve always been drawn to seafood, and this recipe remains a favourite for my daughters, Erin and Samantha. Each time we cook it together, it takes me back to the bustling fish markets of Portland, where fresh catches of the morning would be laid out in a tantalizing spread.
But this Grilled Salmon with Perilla Salsa Verde isn’t your average New England seafood fare. The freshness of the salmon fillets is unarguably supreme, but it’s the perilla salsa verde that really crowns this dish. A lush dance of perilla leaves, parsley, cilantro, capers, and jalapeno pepper, it sets off zesty sparks with its citrusy accents from fresh lemon juice and zest. A splash of red wine vinegar adds a tangy note that sings in harmony with the full-bodied richness of the salmon.
Gourmet Flavours, Healthful Benefits
Not only does this recipe offer a gastronomic experience to write home about, but it also serves up a slew of health benefits. As an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, Salmon aids in heart health, brain function, and joint flexibility. Moreover, perilla leaves, a staple in many Asian cuisines, are rich in antioxidants, providing anti-inflammatory properties and helping to bolster the immune system.
The fresh herbs not only provide a zestful flavour but are packed with vitamins and minerals. For instance, Parsley is rich in Vitamin K which helps in bone health, while cilantro aids digestion. And let’s not forget the benefits of olive oil, which is teeming with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
If you’ve tried something like a Mediterranean salsa verde before, you’re likely to appreciate this dish. Pair it with a side of crispy smashed potatoes or a Greek farro salad, and you have a restaurant-worthy meal right in your kitchen. Grilled Salmon with Perilla Salsa Verde, revealing that sometimes, the magic lies in giving a traditional recipe an innovative, healthful twist.
What You’ll Need
- 6 salmon fillets, skin on (6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup of fresh perilla leaves, chopped
- 1 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and chopped
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and minced
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
Method
Step One
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets with salt and pepper to taste. Set them aside for the moment while you prepare your other ingredients.
Step Two
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant. This should only take a minute or two. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped perilla leaves, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, chopped capers, minced jalapeno, 1/2 cup of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red wine vinegar. Stir these ingredients together until they’re well mixed, making your salsa verde.
Step Four
Return to your salmon fillets. Place them skin side down on a preheated grill. Cook the salmon for about 5 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step Five
Once your salmon is ready, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Spoon your perilla salsa verde over the top of each fillet. Ensure that each piece of salmon gets a good amount of salsa. Your Grilled Salmon with Perilla Salsa Verde is now ready to serve and enjoy!
