Indulge your senses with a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of braised salmon with the earthy notes of mushrooms and the velvety smoothness of potato puree. This French-inspired dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that will elevate your dining table and impress your guests. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family gathering, our Braised Salmon with Mushrooms, Potato Puree, and Watercress is a quick yet elegant recipe that can be whipped up in just 35 minutes. Ready to embark on a delicious journey? Let’s dive into the details of this exquisite dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup watercress
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes by peeling and cutting them into uniform cubes. Place potatoes in a medium saucepan, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the potatoes to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While potatoes are cooking, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Clean and slice the mushrooms into even, thin pieces. Set aside.
- Once potatoes are cooked, drain them completely and return to the hot pan. Add butter and heavy cream, then mash using a potato masher or ricer until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and golden.
- Flip the salmon and add sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until salmon is cooked to desired doneness and mushrooms are lightly caramelized.
- Plate the dish by spreading a generous portion of potato puree on each plate, placing the salmon on top, and garnishing with sautéed mushrooms and fresh watercress.
- Optionally, drizzle with a light herb-infused olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh salmon fillets and seasonal mushrooms. Fresh watercress adds a peppery crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
- Perfectly Cooked Potatoes: Ensure your potatoes are cut into uniform cubes to guarantee even cooking. The goal is a smooth and creamy potato puree, so don’t rush the mashing process—let the butter and cream work their magic!
- Crispy Skin on Salmon: To achieve that desirable crispy skin, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon. Avoid moving the fillets around too much; let them sear undisturbed for the best results.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the cooking times for both the salmon and mushrooms. Overcooking can lead to dry salmon, so aim for a slightly translucent center for a perfectly moist fillet.
- Garnish with Flair: Elevate your presentation by drizzling a herb-infused olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the plated dish. It not only adds brightness but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Experiment with Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms or add a splash of white wine to the skillet for an extra layer of flavor. Your creativity can make this dish uniquely yours!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 90mg
