Grilled salmon with pineapple and a side of rice

Grilled salmon with pineapple and rice garnish

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Who doesn’t want a delicious meal full of flavors and vibrant colors? This grilled salmon recipe with pineapple and rice garnish is just what you need to bring a touch of exoticism to your plate. With the combination of juicy salmon, caramelized pineapple, and fragrant rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Let’s get cooking!

A brief history of the recipe

Salmon has a long-standing tradition in global cooking. Used in various cultures, it is appreciated not only for its wonderful taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Adding pineapple to the recipe is not just an exotic touch, but also a way to balance the rich flavor of salmon with its natural sweetness. This combination is a true feast for the taste buds!

Necessary ingredients

- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 500 g)
- 2-3 slices of fresh pineapple
- 2 cups of rice
- 300 ml chicken broth
- 1/2 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons curry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oregano, basil, and Provence herbs (to preference)

Step by step for perfect grilled salmon

1. Preparing the salmon: Start by washing the salmon fillets. Use a paper towel to dry them well, ensuring there is no excess water that could prevent browning on the grill. Brush each piece with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the Provence herbs, oregano, basil, ginger, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the salmon, making sure each piece is well coated. These flavors will provide a wonderful taste during cooking.

3. Preheating the grill: If using a round grill with water underneath, ensure there is enough water to create steam. Preheat the grill to medium heat, getting ready to add the salmon.

4. Cooking the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill and let them cook for about 30 minutes. Halfway through, carefully flip them to the other side so they cook evenly. The salmon is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Rice garnish with flavor

1. Preparing the rice: In a pot, add the two cups of rice and 300 ml of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. The rice will absorb the flavors from the broth and become fluffy.

2. Seasoning the rice: Once the rice starts to boil, add salt, pepper, and the two teaspoons of curry. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of curry. Finally, add the diced bell pepper, gently mixing to combine the ingredients.

Caramelized pineapple

1. Preparing the pineapple: Cut the pineapple slices into small cubes. In a pan, add a teaspoon of sugar and the pineapple cubes. Let them caramelize over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. A delicious sauce will form.

2. Adding vinegar: Once the pineapple starts to turn golden, add the two teaspoons of vinegar. This ingredient will bring a pleasant contrast between the sweetness of the pineapple and the acidity of the vinegar, turning the sauce into a delicacy.

Serving

Once all components are ready, it’s time to assemble the plates. Place a generous serving of fragrant rice on the plate, add a beautifully browned piece of salmon, and drizzle the caramelized pineapple sauce on top. This presentation is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds!

Suggestions and variations

If you want to add an extra touch, you can garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley leaves. You can also try other combinations of vegetables in the garnish, such as carrots or zucchini. Another idea is to add toasted nuts for an extra crunch.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This salmon recipe with pineapple and rice is not only delicious but also healthy! One serving (approximately 250 g) has about 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sugar used. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health. The brown rice and vegetables provide a consistent intake of fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Of course! Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to avoid it becoming dry.

2. What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Basmati or long-grain rice is ideal, but you can also use brown rice for a healthier option.

3. Can I substitute pineapple with another fruit?
Yes, mango or peaches can be excellent alternatives to add a sweet and exotic note.

4. Can I prepare this dish in a grill pan?
Absolutely! A grill pan is a perfect option to achieve that grilled flavor and nice lines on the fish.

Whether it's a family dinner or a special lunch, grilled salmon with pineapple and rice is a fantastic choice. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!