Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries crispy, succulent salmon with the vibrant zing of fresh tomatillo salsa! This "Crispy Salmon with Tomatillo Salsa" is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family or guests with a gourmet dinner that looks and tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to elevate your weeknight dinners to something truly spectacular!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups tomatillos, husked and chopped
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatillo salsa by combining chopped tomatillos, diced red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures a crispy exterior when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of olive oil, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving, allowing the skin to become golden and crispy. The skin should easily release from the pan when properly cooked.
- Carefully flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the flesh side, or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and is cooked through but still moist.
- Remove salmon from the pan and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate the crispy salmon and generously top with the prepared tomatillo salsa. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately while the salmon is hot and the skin remains crisp, accompanied by your choice of side dishes like rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad.
Tips
- Patience is Key: When cooking the salmon, resist the urge to move it around in the pan. Allowing it to sear undisturbed will give you that coveted crispy skin.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: For the tomatillo salsa, use fresh tomatillos and herbs for the best flavor. The freshness really makes a difference!
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salsa, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeño before mincing it. This will tone down the heat without sacrificing flavor.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.
- Pair Wisely: Serve the salmon with sides that complement its flavors, such as coconut rice, roasted asparagus, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
