Imagine a restaurant-quality dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience - that's exactly what this Pan Seared Salmon White Bean Salad delivers! In less time than it takes to order takeout, you'll create a mouthwatering meal that's not just delicious, but also packed with protein, fresh ingredients, and stunning flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves quick, elegant meals, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until oil is shimmering and just starting to smoke
- Carefully place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet, pressing gently to ensure even contact with the pan surface
- Cook salmon for approximately 4-5 minutes without moving, allowing the skin to become crispy and golden brown
- Gently flip salmon using a spatula and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until fish is cooked through but still moist in the center
- Remove salmon from skillet and set aside to rest on a clean plate
- In a mixing bowl, combine drained white beans, halved cherry tomatoes, and arugula
- Drizzle lemon juice and remaining olive oil over the bean and arugula mixture, then season with salt and pepper
- Toss salad ingredients gently to ensure even coating of dressing
- Divide salad mixture evenly among four plates and top each with a seared salmon fillet
- Serve immediately while salmon is still warm and crispy
Tips
- Pat salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning - this ensures a crispy, golden exterior
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution
- Don't move the salmon while cooking the first side - this creates that coveted crispy skin
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture
- Let salmon rest for a minute after cooking to retain its juices
- Use room temperature ingredients for more even cooking
- Season generously, but taste as you go to avoid over-salting
- For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the salad
- Choose firm white beans like cannellini for the best texture
- Serve immediately to enjoy the salmon at its peak crispiness and warmth
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 205kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 18mg
