Pan-seared salmon with sweet and sour sauce is a tantalizing blend of rich, savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. The dish combines the tender, flaky texture of salmon with the tangy, sweet, and spicy notes of an Asian inspired sauce. It's an impressive dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.
Photos of Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe
Most of the ingredients in this recipe should be readily available in your pantry or local grocery store. However, you might need to look for specific items like rice vinegar and soy sauce which are essential for preparing the sweet and sour sauce. These are generally found in the Asian section of most supermarkets. Also, try to get a good quality salmon, as it is the star of the dish. Freshness is key, it should smell like the ocean, not fishy.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce Ingredients
Salmon: This fatty fish is known for its tender, flaky texture and rich, buttery taste.
Olive oil: Used for searing the salmon and sautéing the ginger and garlic.
Ginger: Adds a warm, spicy aroma to the sauce.
Garlic: Gives the sauce a robust, savory flavor.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
Soy sauce: Adds salty, umami depth to the sauce.
Pineapple juice: Gives the sauce its tangy sweetness.
Honey: Enhances the sweet component of the sauce.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.
Rice vinegar: Contributes a tangy flavor to the sauce.
Ketchup: Adds tanginess and sweetness to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes: Gives the sauce a bit of heat.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Green onion: Used as a garnish, adding a fresh, pungent flavor.
Sesame seeds: Also used as a garnish, they add a nutty crunch.
One reader, Kellina Florence says:
The pan-seared salmon with sweet and sour sauce recipe is a game-changer! The salmon was perfectly cooked and the sweet and sour sauce was a delightful blend of flavors. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and healthy meal. I highly recommend it!
Techniques Required
How to prepare the sweet and sour sauce: Whisk together the cornstarch and soy sauce in a small bowl, then add in the pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and red pepper flakes. Heat the oil in a small saucepan, sauté the ginger and garlic, then pour in the pineapple juice mixture. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and allow to boil for 1 minute until thickened. Remove from heat, cover, and set aside.
How to cook the salmon: Dab both sides of the salmon dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt. Heat oil in a heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for about 4 minutes on the first side, until golden brown, then flip and cook on the opposite side for 2 to 3 minutes longer, until cooked through.
How to serve: Plate the salmon, spoon the sweet and sour sauce over the top, sprinkle with green onions or cilantro, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve and enjoy!
How To Make Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce
You can’t go wrong with a filling serving of this pan seared salmon, a well-seasoned flaky dish that’s topped with a sweet and sour pineapple sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6ozsalmon,(4 fillets), skinless
- 3½tspolive oil,or vegetable oil, divided
- 2tspginger,finely peeled, minced
- 2tspgarlic,minced
- 2tspcornstarch
- 1½tbspsoy sauce
- ⅓cuppineapple juice
- 2tbsphoney
- 1½tbsplight brown sugar,packed
- 3½tbsprice vinegar
- 1½tbspketchup
- ¼tspred pepper flakes,optional
- salt,to taste
- green onion,or cilantro, chopped
- white sesame seeds,for garnishing
Instructions
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Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and soy sauce, then add in the pineapple juice, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, and red pepper flakes.
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Heat 1½ teaspoon of the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat, then add the ginger and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until lightly golden brown.
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Whisk the pineapple juice mixture once more, then pour into saucepan.
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Bring mixture to a boil stirring constantly, then allow to boil, stirring constantly for 1 minute until thickened. Remove from heat, cover and set aside.
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Dab both sides of salmon dry with paper towels, then season both sides with ½ teaspoon of salt.
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Heat the remaining oil in a heavy 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Once the oil is shimmering, add the salmon and cook for about 4 minutes on the first side, until golden brown on bottom, then flip and cook the salmon on the opposite side for 2 to 3 minutes longer, until cooked through.
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Plate the salmon, spoon sweet and sour sauce over top, sprinkle with green onions or cilantro, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 199.22kcal
- Fat: 9.73g
- Saturated Fat: 1.85g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.49g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.10g
- Carbohydrates: 18.61g
- Fiber: 0.21g
- Sugar: 15.43g
- Protein: 9.46g
- Cholesterol: 23.39mg
- Sodium: 415.15mg
- Calcium: 16.49mg
- Potassium: 246.45mg
- Iron: 0.45mg
- Vitamin A: 2.30µg
- Vitamin C: 4.56mg
Mastering the Perfect Sear: Technique Tips for Salmon
When searing the salmon, it's important to have your pan hot enough before adding the fish. This ensures a nice, crispy skin and prevents the salmon from sticking to the pan. However, be careful not to let the pan get too hot as this can cause the oil to smoke and give the salmon a burnt taste. A good way to test the heat is to add a drop of water to the pan - if it sizzles and evaporates quickly, the pan is ready.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pan-Seared Salmon
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting the cooking process to streamline the preparation.
One-pan wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook the salmon and the sauce in the same pan to minimize cleanup.
Multi-task: While the sauce is simmering, use that time to sear the salmon to make the most of your cooking time.
Fresh and ready: Use pre-made sweet and sour sauce to save time, or prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for later use.
Quick fix: Consider using pre-marinated salmon fillets to cut down on the prep time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe
salmon - Substitute with arctic char: Arctic char is a similar fish with a mild, delicate flavor and a texture comparable to salmon, making it a great substitute for this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for pan-searing the salmon.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger in this recipe, providing a similar flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch, providing a similar texture and consistency.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor to the dish.
pineapple juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice can be used as a substitute for pineapple juice, adding a tangy sweetness to the sauce.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey, providing a natural sweetness to the dish.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, adding a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the sauce.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice vinegar, providing a tangy acidity to the sauce.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste can be used as a substitute for ketchup, adding a concentrated tomato flavor to the sauce.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute for red pepper flakes, providing a similar level of heat to the dish.
green onion - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, adding a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
white sesame seeds - Substitute with black sesame seeds: Black sesame seeds can be used as a substitute for white sesame seeds, adding a nutty flavor and visual contrast to the dish.
Plating Ideas for a Delightful Presentation
Elevate the salmon: Gently place the perfectly seared salmon on the plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the dish. The salmon should be positioned with precision and care, showcasing its natural beauty and texture.
Artful drizzling of sweet and sour sauce: Using a squeeze bottle or a spoon, delicately drizzle the sweet and sour sauce around the salmon, creating an artistic and visually appealing pattern on the plate. The sauce should complement the salmon without overpowering it.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle finely chopped green onions and white sesame seeds over the dish, ensuring an even distribution and a visually stunning finish. The garnishes should be strategically placed to add a pop of color and texture to the dish.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. The use of negative space will create a visually striking presentation that is both elegant and sophisticated.
Utilize complementary colors: Consider the color wheel and incorporate complementary colors in the presentation. This could involve adding a vibrant element, such as a small side of pickled ginger or a touch of microgreens, to enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Attention to plate placement: Carefully consider the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring a balanced and harmonious presentation. The arrangement should be visually appealing and showcase the culinary artistry of the dish.
Emphasize texture: Incorporate elements that add texture to the dish, such as a delicate sprinkle of Maldon sea salt or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. These subtle additions will elevate the dish and provide a sensory experience for the diner.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Preparing Salmon
- Sauté pan: A sauté pan is a versatile kitchen tool used for frying, searing, and sautéing foods. It typically has a wide, flat bottom and relatively tall, straight sides, making it perfect for cooking the salmon.
- Small saucepan: A small saucepan is essential for making the sweet and sour sauce. It allows for even heating and easy stirring of the ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk is used to thoroughly combine the ingredients for the sweet and sour sauce, ensuring a smooth and well-mixed consistency.
- Non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for cooking the salmon as it prevents the fish from sticking and allows for easy flipping.
- Paper towels: Paper towels are used to pat the salmon dry before seasoning, ensuring that it cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.
How To Store / Freeze Pan-Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Let the pan-seared salmon cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Store the cooled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Store the leftover sweet and sour sauce in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To freeze the sauce, pour it into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, leaving some headspace for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To reheat the frozen salmon, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- To reheat the frozen sauce, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- For best quality, consume the reheated salmon and sauce within 1-2 days.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the leftover salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spoon a small amount of the sweet and sour sauce over the salmon to keep it moist. Cover the salmon loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C).
For a quicker method, you can use a microwave. Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate and spoon a small amount of the sweet and sour sauce over it. Cover the plate with a damp paper towel to prevent the salmon from drying out. Microwave on medium power (50%) for 1-2 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the salmon to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a steamer or a double boiler, you can use this method to gently reheat the salmon. Place the salmon in the steamer basket or the top part of the double boiler, and spoon a small amount of the sweet and sour sauce over it. Cover and steam over simmering water for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
For a stovetop method, place the salmon and a small amount of the sweet and sour sauce in a non-stick skillet. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and heat over low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Be sure to check the salmon frequently to avoid overcooking.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the salmon quickly and crispy. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in the air fryer basket and spoon a small amount of the sweet and sour sauce over it. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the skin is crispy.
Random Fact about Pan-Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce
The recipe includes a sweet and sour sauce that combines the flavors of pineapple juice, honey, and rice vinegar to create a delightful balance of tangy and sweet notes. This sauce is a versatile addition to the dish and can also be used as a dipping sauce for other seafood or meat dishes.
Is This Salmon Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?
This pan-seared salmon with sweet and sour sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of salmon and soy sauce may increase the cost, but the dish's overall flavor and nutritional value justify the expense. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30. The dish's versatility and health benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is Pan-Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce Healthy?
The pan-seared salmon with sweet and sour sauce recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that offers several health benefits. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. The recipe also includes ginger and garlic, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system. Additionally, the use of pineapple juice and honey provides natural sweetness without relying on refined sugars.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar and ketchup in the sauce to lower the overall sugar content
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to decrease the salt intake
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding stir-fried bell peppers or broccoli, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
- Opt for wild-caught salmon, which tends to have a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio compared to farmed salmon
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Serve the salmon with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complex carbohydrate source
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for an extra crunch and a dose of healthy fats
- Incorporate a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to increase the vegetable intake
- Use a small amount of avocado oil instead of olive oil for cooking, as it has a higher smoke point and is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
Editor's Thoughts on This Delectable Salmon Dish
The combination of pan-seared salmon with sweet and sour sauce is a delightful balance of flavors. The sauce, with its blend of pineapple juice, honey, and rice vinegar, adds a tangy and sweet dimension to the dish. The salmon, when cooked to perfection, provides a succulent and flavorful base for the sauce. The use of ginger and garlic in the sauce adds depth and complexity to the overall taste. This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate a simple salmon dish into a restaurant-quality meal that is sure to impress.
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Why trust this Pan Seared Salmon with Sweet and Sour Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The succulent salmon is expertly pan-seared to perfection, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining its tender interior. The sweet and sour sauce, featuring pineapple juice, honey, and rice vinegar, adds a harmonious balance of tangy and sweet notes to elevate the dish. With carefully selected ingredients such as ginger and garlic, this recipe promises an authentic and delightful culinary journey. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe for a memorable dining experience.
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