Grilled salmon

Grilled Salmon with Garlic and Crunchy Vegetables

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 1-12 hours
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: up to 12 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Discover the joy of cooking with a simple and delicious grilled salmon recipe, perfect for a healthy and flavorful dinner. Salmon is a fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which bring numerous health benefits, including supporting heart health and improving brain function. Besides being nutritious, salmon has a tender texture and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices and crunchy vegetables.

A bit of history: Grilled salmon is a recipe that has become popular across many cultures over time, making it an ideal choice for summer meals, outdoor parties, or even family gatherings. The grilling method enhances the natural flavor of the fish and gives it a slightly crispy texture on the outside while keeping it juicy on the inside.

Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
- Crunchy vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
- 50 g butter (optional, for flavored butter)

Preparing the marinated salmon:
1. Preparing the marinade: In a small bowl, mash the 3 garlic cloves with salt using a fork or mortar. Add the white pepper, sweet paprika, and grated ginger. These spices will give an intense and aromatic flavor to the fish.
2. Adding lemon juice: Squeeze the juice from 1/2 lemon into the spice mixture. The lemon juice will not only add a fresh note but also help tenderize the salmon meat.
3. Marinating: Coat the salmon fillets with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator. Ideally, let it absorb the flavors for a few hours, but if you have time, you can leave it overnight.

Grilling the salmon:
4. Preparing the grill: Preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature. Ensure the grill is clean and brushed with a bit of oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
5. Cooking the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque color.
6. Checking doneness: If you want to ensure the salmon is well cooked, you can use a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should be 62°C.

Preparing the crunchy vegetables:
7. Selecting vegetables: Choose your preferred vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Cut them into strips or rounds, depending on your preferences.
8. Cooking the vegetables: You can grill them alongside the salmon or sauté them quickly in a pan with a little olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.

Serving:
9. Flavored butter (optional): If you want to add an extra touch of flavor, you can prepare a flavored butter. At room temperature, mix the butter with herbs (such as dill or parsley), salt, and a little lemon juice. Spread this butter over the warm salmon for a perfect taste.
10. Presentation: Place the salmon on a plate alongside the crunchy vegetables and, why not, a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- Oven version: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can prepare the salmon in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the fillets in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Cook for 12-15 minutes.
- Spice variations: Experiment with different spices, such as coriander, cumin, or even soy sauce for an Asian twist.
- Storage: If you have leftover cooked salmon, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why marinate the salmon?: Marinating helps intensify flavors and tenderize the meat, providing a richer taste.
- Can I use frozen salmon?: Yes, make sure to fully thaw it before marinating to allow for flavor absorption.
- What drinks pair well with grilled salmon?: A bottle of white wine or a fresh citrus-based cocktail are excellent companions for this dish.

This grilled salmon recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. Enjoy every bite and feel inspired to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. Enjoy cooking and the delicious meals you will create!