Grilled salmon with garlic lemon sauce

Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Garlic Sauce

If you are looking for a simple yet delicious recipe, grilled salmon with lemon and garlic sauce is the perfect choice. This dish will not only delight your taste buds but also provide a healthy dose of omega-3, nutrients, and vitamins. Additionally, salmon is a versatile fish that is easy to cook, making it ideal for any cooking enthusiast, from beginners to experts.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2

Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 200-250 g each)
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- A pinch of three-color pepper (black, white, green)
- Half a lemon (for fresh juice)
- 1-2 garlic cloves (optional, for the sauce)
- A little fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 2-3 small carrots (for garnish)

Brief History
Salmon is a traditional ingredient in many cultures, appreciated not only for its savory taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Grilling is popular due to the ease of preparation and the intense flavors that develop during cooking. The lemon and garlic sauce enhances the dish, bringing a pleasant contrast between the sweetness of the salmon and the acidity of the lemon.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Salmon Fillets
- Start by washing the salmon fillets under cold running water. Then, dry them with a paper towel to remove excess water.
- In a small bowl, add a few drops of olive oil. Use extra virgin olive oil for a more intense flavor. Brush the salmon fillets with oil to prevent sticking to the grill.

2. Seasoning
- Sprinkle salt and a pinch of three-color pepper on both sides of the salmon. This pepper combination will add a note of flavor complexity.

3. Heating the Grill
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it is well-heated, as this will help form a delicious crust.

4. Cooking the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets on the hot grill and let them cook for 5-7 minutes on one side. Do not move them too often to allow a crispy crust to form.
- Once the first side is browned, flip the salmon using a spatula. Drizzle with a little lemon juice to enhance the flavors. Cook for another 5 minutes on the other side.

5. Resting the Salmon
- Once the salmon is cooked (the flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork), remove it from the grill and let it rest for 7-8 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute within the flesh, making it juicier.

6. Preparing the Garnish
- While the salmon rests, peel the carrots and boil them in salted water until they are tender but not overcooked. Then, drain them and sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley on top.

7. Garlic Sauce
- If you want a simple garlic sauce, chop 1-2 garlic cloves and mix them with a tablespoon of sour cream and the juice from half a lemon. Add fresh or dried basil for extra flavor.

Serving
Place the salmon fillets on a plate, alongside the carrot garnish, and drizzle the garlic sauce over the fish. You can garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley for an attractive appearance.

Pairing Suggestions
This recipe pairs wonderfully with arugula and cherry tomato salad or a glass of dry white wine. Additionally, mashed potatoes or basmati rice would perfectly complete the meal.

Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B and D vitamins, and essential minerals such as selenium. A serving of grilled salmon is not only delicious but also beneficial for heart and brain health.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but make sure it is well-thawed and dried before cooking.
- What other spices can I add? You can experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or herbs like dill or oregano to give a personal touch to the recipe.

Possible Variations
For a more exotic version, add a mango or pineapple sauce alongside the salmon. You can also bake the salmon with vegetables to create a complete meal in one dish.

Grilled salmon with lemon and garlic sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that is worth trying. Enjoy your meal!