Pan-seared salmon with avocado tomato salsa is a refreshing and flavorful dish that delivers a satisfying combination of textures and tastes. This seafood delight offers a burst of bright, fresh flavors from the salsa, while the pan-seared salmon adds a savory touch. The recipe is easy to prepare, yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests or loved ones.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common items that you may already have in your kitchen. However, serrano chile, a hot chili pepper used for the salsa, might not be readily available in all supermarkets. It's slightly more potent than a jalapeno, so adjust the quantity according to your heat preference. Also, ensure that you pick a ripe but firm avocado for the best texture in your salsa. You may also need fresh cilantro leaves, which provide a unique burst of flavor.
Ingredients for Pan-Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa
Salmon filets: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, provides the hearty base for this dish.
Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the salmon.
Olive oil and unsalted butter: Used for searing the salmon, giving it a delicious, crispy exterior.
Garlic: Adds a depth of flavor to the salmon and salsa.
Tomatoes: The base for the salsa, providing a juicy, sweet contrast to the salmon.
Red onion: Gives a sharp flavor and crunchy texture to the salsa.
Cilantro leaves: These impart a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor to the salsa.
Serrano chile: Adds heat to the salsa. Adjust according to your preference.
Lime juice: Brightens up the salsa with its tartness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
Avocado: Gives the salsa a creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor.
One reader, Jemmie Davis says:
The pan-seared salmon with avocado tomato salsa recipe is a game-changer! The salmon was perfectly seared, and the salsa added a burst of fresh flavors. The combination of the crispy salmon and the creamy avocado salsa was simply divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful and healthy meal.
Key Techniques for Perfectly Pan Seared Salmon
Prepare the salmon: Pat dry the room temperature salmon fillets with a paper towel. Season all over with salt and pepper. Squeeze 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon juice over each fillet and rub in the flavor.
Sear the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add salmon fillets, flesh side down, while pressing lightly so the entire surface of the flesh comes into contact with the pan. Sear, undisturbed, for 3 to 4 minutes until crispy and golden. Flip and sear the other side of each fillet for 2 minutes. Then, add in the butter, chopped garlic, and the remaining lemon juice.
Make the salsa: Combine the salsa ingredients except the avocado in a bowl.
Slice the avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice the flesh into thin slices.
Serve the dish: Top each salmon fillet with the tomato salsa and avocado slices. Drizzle each fillet with the buttery sauce and serve immediately.
How To Make Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa
Brighten up your pan seared salmon with fresh avocado tomato salsa. Tossed in lime juice, the salsa add depth of flavors to your fish.
Serves:
Ingredients
For The Salmon:
- 20ozsalmon filetsskinless
- salt and pepperto season
- 3tbsplemon juicedivided
- 1tbspolive oil
- 2tbspunsalted butter
- 5largegarlic clovesfinely chopped or minced
For The Salsa:
- 3tomatoesfinely chopped
- 2tbspred onionfinely chopped
- 1tbspfresh cilantro leavesfinely chopped
- ½serrano chileor jalapeño, stems, ribs, seeds removed and finely chopped
- 1smallgarlic clovecrushed
- 1tbsplime juice
- ¼tspsalt
- 1largeavocadosliced
Instructions
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Pat dry room temperature salmon fillets with paper towel. Season all over with salt, pepper. Squeeze 1 to 2 teaspoons of lemon juice over each fillet and rub in the flavour.
-
Heat the olive in a large non-stick pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add salmon fillets, flesh side down, while pressing lightly so the entire surface of the flesh comes into contact with the pan. Sear, undisturbed, for 3 to 4 minutes until crispy and golden.
-
Flip and sear the other side of each fillet for 2 minutes. Then, add in the butter, chopped garlic, and the remaining lemon juice.
-
Continue cooking the salmon for a another 1 to 2 minutes, or until salmon reaches desired doneness, while stirring the butter and garlic around each fillet. Taste test and season with salt and pepper to your tastes, and add more lemon if desired.
-
While salmon is cooking, combine the salsa ingredients except the avocado in a bowl. Top each salmon fillet with the tomato salsa and avocado slices.
-
Drizzle each fillet with the buttery sauce and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 511.14kcal
- Fat: 37.66g
- Saturated Fat: 9.83g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.49g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.33g
- Carbohydrates: 13.49g
- Fiber: 5.88g
- Sugar: 3.52g
- Protein: 31.74g
- Cholesterol: 93.23mg
- Sodium: 782.30mg
- Calcium: 51.10mg
- Potassium: 1107.62mg
- Iron: 1.35mg
- Vitamin A: 93.26µg
- Vitamin C: 32.93mg
Pro Tip for Achieving Crispy Salmon Skin
When searing salmon, it's important to press the fillet lightly into the pan to ensure even contact and browning. This will give your salmon a delicious, crispy exterior. Also, remember to let the salmon cook undisturbed for the first few minutes. Moving it around too much can prevent it from developing that desirable golden crust. Lastly, adding butter and garlic towards the end of cooking infuses the salmon with additional flavor while preventing the garlic from burning.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the salsa and chop the garlic and onion in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Multitask: While the salmon is searing, prepare the avocado and tomato salsa to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organized workspace: Keep all ingredients and utensils organized and within reach to streamline the cooking process.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the time spent on post-cooking cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the added stress of a messy kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa Recipe
salmon filets - Substitute with arctic char filets: Arctic char is a similar fish with a milder flavor and can be cooked in the same way as salmon.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can provide a similar level of acidity and freshness to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good substitute for pan-searing the fish.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, nutty flavor and can be used in place of butter for a different depth of taste.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a similar aromatic flavor to the dish and complement the other ingredients well.
tomatoes - Substitute with red bell peppers: Red bell peppers can add a sweet and slightly smoky flavor to the salsa.
red onion - Substitute with sweet onion: Sweet onions can provide a milder flavor compared to red onions in the salsa.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can add a fresh and herbaceous element to the salsa.
serrano chile - Substitute with jalapeño: Jalapeño peppers can provide a similar level of heat and flavor to the salsa.
lime juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can add a tangy acidity to the salsa.
avocado - Substitute with mango: Mango can add a sweet and tropical twist to the salsa, complementing the flavors of the dish.
Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation
Elevate the salmon fillet: Gently place the pan-seared salmon fillet on the plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the dish. The salmon should be positioned in a way that showcases its crispy, golden exterior.
Artfully arrange the avocado tomato salsa: Carefully spoon the vibrant avocado tomato salsa alongside the salmon, creating a visually appealing contrast of colors and textures on the plate.
Garnish with microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the dish to add a touch of freshness and a pop of color, enhancing the overall presentation.
Drizzle with a lemon-infused reduction: Create an elegant drizzle using a reduction of lemon juice, adding a sophisticated touch to the dish and complementing the flavors of the salmon and salsa.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a few edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to add a whimsical and visually stunning element to the plate.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors of the salmon and salsa to take center stage while maintaining a refined and sophisticated presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Pan Seared Salmon
- Non-stick pan or skillet: A non-stick pan or skillet is essential for searing the salmon without it sticking to the surface, allowing for a crispy and golden exterior.
- Paper towel: Use a paper towel to pat dry the salmon fillets before seasoning to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a better sear.
- Knife: A sharp knife is needed for slicing the avocado and chopping the garlic, onion, and cilantro for the salsa.
- Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing and chopping ingredients, such as the tomatoes, avocado, and onion.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the ingredients for the avocado tomato salsa, allowing for easy tossing and mixing.
- Lemon squeezer: A lemon squeezer can be used to extract the juice from the lemon, making it easier to evenly distribute the citrus flavor over the salmon fillets.
- Tongs: Tongs are helpful for flipping the salmon fillets during the cooking process, ensuring they are seared evenly on both sides.
- Spatula: A spatula can be used to carefully transfer the seared salmon fillets from the pan to the serving plates without breaking them.
- Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic cloves, allowing for easy incorporation into the buttery sauce for the salmon.
- Citrus juicer: A citrus juicer can be used to extract the juice from the lime, providing a fresh and tangy element to the avocado tomato salsa.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Pan Seared Salmon
- To store leftover pan seared salmon, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- The avocado tomato salsa is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them separately from the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To maintain the quality and texture of the salmon, avoid reheating it in the microwave. Instead, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or enjoy it cold on top of a salad.
- If you want to freeze the cooked salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen salmon, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, consume within 24 hours and do not refreeze.
- The avocado tomato salsa does not freeze well due to the change in texture of the avocado and tomatoes when frozen and thawed. It is best to make the salsa fresh when needed.
How To Reheat Leftover Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa
- To reheat leftover pan seared salmon, preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the fillets lightly with olive oil or melted butter to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
- Alternatively, you can reheat the salmon in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan, and gently heat the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.
- For the avocado tomato salsa, it's best to store the components separately and assemble them just before serving. If the salsa has been stored together, you can gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as the avocado may become mushy.
- If the avocado has turned brown due to oxidation, simply scoop out the discolored parts and add fresh avocado if needed.
- To maintain the texture and flavor of the salsa, you can also serve it at room temperature. Remove it from the refrigerator about 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to come to room temperature naturally.
- When reheating the salmon and salsa, be sure to consume them within 3-4 days of initial cooking for optimal freshness and food safety.
Interesting Trivia About Pan Seared Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Budget-Friendly: Making Pan Seared Salmon at Home
This pan-seared salmon with avocado tomato salsa recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main cost lies in the salmon, but the dish is balanced with affordable ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and garlic. The health benefits of salmon make it a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$40. Overall Verdict: 8.
Is Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa Healthy?
This pan-seared salmon with avocado tomato salsa recipe is a healthy and nutritious dish. The salmon provides a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. The avocado and tomato salsa adds a delicious and refreshing element to the dish while providing healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. The use of fresh ingredients like garlic, cilantro, and lime juice adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use a smaller amount of butter or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the salsa by adding bell peppers, cucumber, or leafy greens
- Serve the salmon with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted vegetables to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal
- Use a low-sodium salt alternative or reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe
- Grill the salmon instead of pan-searing to reduce the amount of added fat
Editor's Opinion: Why This Salmon Dish Is a Must-Try
The recipe for pan-seared salmon with avocado tomato salsa is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The salmon is perfectly seared, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. The addition of the buttery garlic sauce enhances the richness of the dish. The fresh and zesty avocado tomato salsa provides a refreshing contrast, adding a burst of color and freshness. Overall, this dish offers a well-balanced and satisfying dining experience, perfect for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight meal.
Enhance Your Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Pan Seared Salmon with Avocado Tomato Salsa Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal. The salmon is expertly seasoned and seared to perfection, creating a crispy exterior and tender interior. The addition of butter and garlic infuses rich and savory notes, enhancing the overall taste. The vibrant tomato salsa provides a refreshing contrast, while the creamy avocado adds a luscious creaminess. With the use of fresh ingredients such as cilantro and lime juice, this recipe promises a delightful and trustworthy dining experience.
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