Mariusz Lewandowski
Nutty Mediterranean Delight: A Flavorful Journey with Almond-Crusted Salmon and Dill-Yogurt Sauce
Embark on a culinary adventure with our Nutty Mediterranean Delight, a dish that beautifully marries the earthy richness of almonds with the succulent flavors of salmon. Hailing from the sun-drenched coasts of Southern Europe, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, known for its use of fresh herbs and natural ingredients. Imagine the aroma of freshly cut dill mingling with the zest of lemon, all enveloped in a creamy yogurt sauce that dances on your palate. This dish isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s a celebration of health, combining omega-rich salmon with the beneficial properties of nuts and herbs. Perfect for a weekend gathering or a dinner party, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 ounces each
– 1 cup almond meal
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 lemon, zest and juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
– A handful of mixed greens (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Create the Almond Crust:
In a shallow dish, combine the almond meal, 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, and the zest of one lemon. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Coat the Salmon:
Gently press the top side of the salmon fillets into the almond mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the fillets, crust-side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast the Salmon:
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the crusted fillets, then transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Roast for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
6. Prepare the Dill-Yogurt Sauce:
While the salmon is roasting, in a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, the juice of half a lemon, and the remaining dill. Stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toast the Almonds:
Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast them, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown. Be vigilant as they can burn quickly.
8. Serve:
Once the salmon is ready, transfer the fillets to plates. Drizzle generously with the dill-yogurt sauce and sprinkle with toasted slivered almonds. Serve immediately over a bed of mixed greens, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy kick.
Cooking Tips:
– Tip for a Crispier Crust: For an extra-crispy almond crust, you can briefly run it under a broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of the roasting time. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning.
– Substitution Guide: If you don’t have almond meal, you can easily make your own by pulsing whole almonds in a food processor until fine.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings:
– Pair this vibrant dish with a chilled bottle of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy white wine to complement the flavors.
– For an added twist, serve alongside a warm quinoa salad with roasted vegetables or a traditional Mediterranean side dish such as tabbouleh.
Enjoy your Nutty Mediterranean Delight, where every bite is a rich tapestry of flavors and textures, inspired by the nourishing Mediterranean lifestyle!
