Oven-baked salmon with a lemon caper sauce

Oven-Baked Salmon with Lemon Caper Sauce

Who doesn't love a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-prepare meal? Today's recipe, oven-baked salmon with lemon and caper sauce, is perfect for a savory dinner, full of flavors. It's a quick recipe that combines the delicate taste of salmon with the freshness of lemon sauce and capers. Besides being an excellent choice for your health, it's also a fantastic way to bring a touch of elegance to your table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the salmon:
- 1 salmon fillet (approximately 1.1 kg)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes
- 500 g new potatoes
- Juice of one lemon
- Zest of one lemon
- 2 tablespoons honey mustard
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- A few sprigs of rosemary
- A few sprigs of fresh coriander
- Salt and freshly ground pepper

For the lemon caper sauce:
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 100 ml cream
- 2 tablespoons canned capers
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)

Short History

Salmon is one of the most popular types of fish in the world, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its wealth of nutrients. It has been an integral part of many cultures' diets throughout history, holding special significance in traditional dishes. This recipe not only honors culinary traditions but adds a modern twist with the lemon and caper sauce, which brings a delicious contrast.

Preparing the Oven-Baked Salmon

1. Preparing the salmon fillet: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the salmon fillet in an ovenproof dish lined with parchment paper. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Preparing the mustard paste: In a blender, combine the two types of mustard, rosemary, lemon juice and zest, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, coriander leaves, salt, and pepper. Blend until you have a smooth paste.

3. Coating the salmon: Spread the mustard paste over the salmon fillet, ensuring it is well covered. This step will add intense flavor and help caramelize the crust during baking.

Preparing the Side Dish

1. Boiling the potatoes: Wash the new potatoes well and boil them with their skins until tender (about 15 minutes). Once boiled, peel and cut them in half.

2. Assembling the side dish: In a baking tray, place the peeled potatoes, cherry tomatoes, and a few sprigs of rosemary. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each ingredient is well seasoned.

3. Baking in the oven: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

Preparing the Lemon Caper Sauce

1. Melting the butter: In a non-stick pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic cloves and cook until golden, being careful not to burn them.

2. Adding the ingredients: Add the lemon zest and juice, cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly.

3. Finishing the sauce: Finally, add the canned capers and stir, letting the sauce cook for a few minutes for the flavors to combine.

Serving

Once the salmon and side dish are ready, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Place a portion of salmon on a plate, add the side of potatoes and cherry tomatoes, and pour the lemon caper sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves for a vibrant look.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the salmon: Choose a fresh salmon fillet with a firm texture and even color. Wild salmon has a stronger flavor compared to farmed, so choose according to your preferences.
- Variations: You can add vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or carrots to the tray with potatoes for an even more colorful and nutritious side dish.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, the recipe also works with trout or sea bream. The taste will be slightly different but just as delicious.
- How can I store the lemon sauce? The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Gently reheat before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart and brain health. It is rich in proteins, vitamins B and D, and essential minerals. Cherry tomatoes provide a boost of antioxidants, while new potatoes are a good source of fiber.

So, enjoy this simple yet refined recipe that will impress anyone who tastes it! Bon appétit!