| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 415 | 25g | 4g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 11g | 3g | 34g | 0.8g |
I have long harbored a deep affection for my Poppy Seed Encrusted Salmon recipe, a jewel among the myriad of dishes I am privileged to share with you. While the culinary traditions of my Nebraska roots are steeped in hearty comfort food, I also explore and champion the flavors and health benefits from other parts of the cuisine spectrum. This delightful dish shines in this respect, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors and textures of fruit-based recipes, while incorporating the nutritional powerhouse that is salmon.
A Fusion of Flavors
The magic of the Poppy Seed Encrusted Salmon lies in the way it dances on the tightrope of savory and sweet. The succulence of the salmon, layered with a symphony of orange zest, honey and poppy seeds, creates a beautiful harmony of flavors. An added melody comes in the form of dried apricots, fresh pineapple and glistening pomegranate seeds. This gustatory joyride is reminiscent of Salmon Tartare with Tropical Fruit and would sit delightfully alongside a fresh quinoa salad.
Health in Every Bite
But more than just a feast for the taste buds, this dish is a celebration of nutrition. Salmon, the star of the dish, is famously laden with Omega-3 fatty acids, B Vitamins, and high-quality protein. Married to this are the antioxidants found in the fruit components, notably the pomegranate seeds with their potent anti-inflammatory effects.
I often find myself falling back on my Poppy Seed Encrusted Salmon when I both want to impress with flavors and fortify with wellness in mind. It’s a colorful, delicious testament to the power of stepping out of your culinary comfort zone, exploring new territories of taste while simultaneously caring for your health. As a devoted family man in the making, this is one recipe I cannot wait to pass on to the generations that come.
What You’ll Need
- 6 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Method
Step One
Start with preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Step Two
Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the poppy seeds on a plate and press the fillets into the seeds to coat. Make sure you press the seeds into the flesh of the salmon so they stick.
Step Three
Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon and cook until browned on one side, about 3 minutes. Turn the fillets over and transfer the skillet to the oven.
Step Four
Cook the salmon in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step Five
While the salmon is cooking, mix the honey, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and soy sauce in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
Step Six
Stir the chopped parsley, dried apricots, fresh pineapple, and pomegranate seeds into the sauce. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is heated through.
Step Seven
Remove the skillet from the oven and plate the salmon. Pour the fruit and sauce mixture over the cooked salmon, then garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Step Eight
Serve and enjoy your Poppy Seed Encrusted Salmon!
