| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 474 | 31g | 7g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 2g | 38g | 0.66g |
Deep from the heart of Nebraska and inspired by my Midwestern roots, I present to you, a delightful berry-based sweetness paired with the kick of Asian zing – The Wasabi Crusted Salmon. While it may seem like an unusual dish given my farm-fresh cooking style, it perfectly encapsulates my curiosity and passion for out-of-box pairings.
A Twist from the Heartland
Typically, my heart waxes poetic about the simple, wholesome flavors of the heartland – think corn casseroles and beef stews. Yet, with Wasabi Crusted Salmon, I’ve ventured a little off the beaten path. While Nebraska isn’t known for its sea-based fare, I’ve always believed in taking the spirit of home wherever you go. Here, I’ve taken a robustly flavored fish, salmon, and crusted it with an earthy heat of wasabi before balancing it with the sweetness of a fruit medley of mango, pineapple, and kiwi. A dash of honey and a spritz of lemon juice bring it all together in perfect harmony.
Salubrious and Savory
Not only does this dish tantalize your taste buds, but it also boasts powerful health benefits. Salmon is an abundant source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for boosting heart health and cognitive function. Wasabi, on the other hand, is beneficial for your heart and bones, potentially providing anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. The selection of fruits packed within each bite is high in vitamins and dietary fiber, providing a boost to your immune system and digestive health. Truly, this recipe embodies that delicious food need not be divorced from nutritional wealth.
The Wasabi Crusted Salmon is akin to the Japanese dish Wasabi Sake, where salmon is marinated with wasabi and soy sauce and then broiled. It can also be a fantastic main dish on a Hawaiian luau, where tropical flavors dominate. For a truly spectacular meal, pair it with a coconut-infused Basmati rice or a tropical salad complete with a tangy vinaigrette.
No denying, Wasabi Crusted Salmon represents a union of two worlds – the simplicity of heartland cooking, conveyed through the wholesome salmon, and the complex flavor profiles of my culinary adventures. And it’s with this love for exploration and passion for fresh, comforting flavors, I’m sharing this incredible recipe with you all. So, break out your apron, heat up your oven, and prepare your tastebuds for a thrilling ride down the culinary expressway.
What You’ll Need
- 3 lbs Salmon Fillets
- 3 tablespoons Wasabi Paste
- 1/2 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 cup Mango, diced
- 1 cup Pineapple, diced
- 1 cup Kiwi, diced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Cilantro, chopped
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step Two
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. In a bowl, combine the wasabi paste, honey, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Brush this glaze onto the salmon fillets.
Step Three
Place the Panko bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Carefully press the top of each glazed salmon fillet into the Panko crumbs, making sure it covers the top. Transfer the crusted salmon fillets onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step Four
Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your liking and the crust is golden brown.
Step Five
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the tropical salsa. Combine the diced mango, pineapple, kiwi, fresh mint, and cilantro in a bowl. Stir to combine.
Step Six
Serve the cooked salmon hot from the oven, topped with a generous spoonful of the tropical salsa.
Enjoy your Wasabi Crusted Salmon with a fresh, flavorful kick!
