Oven-baked salmon with champagne and orange sauce

Oven-baked salmon with champagne and orange sauce

Cooking is an art, and this recipe for oven-baked salmon with champagne and orange sauce is a true culinary masterpiece, perfect for impressing guests or for a special family dinner. The aroma of the salmon, combined with the sweetness of the orange and the elegance of the champagne, will transform any meal into a festive occasion. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delight!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 1 orange, sliced
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- A few drops of olive oil
- Salt, to taste

For the sauce:
- 25 g butter (about one cube)
- 3-4 tablespoons of flour (amount may vary depending on desired consistency)
- 250 ml champagne (or a quality sparkling wine)
- Juice of 1 orange
- 1 orange, diced
- A pinch of salt
- A little white pepper, to taste

A brief history

Salmon dishes have been an integral part of global cuisine, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, and is an excellent source of protein. The combination with oranges and champagne adds a touch of sophistication, reminiscent of festive meals around the world.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the salmon:
- Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even cooking of the salmon.
- Wash the salmon fillets well under cold water and dry them with a paper towel.
- Place the fillets in a baking dish. Drizzle with a few drops of olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. This will be an important step to intensify the flavors.

2. Adding flavors:
- Grate the zest of the orange and lemon over the salmon fillets. These zests will bring a fresh and vibrant note to your dish.
- Arrange the orange slices around the salmon and add a little water to the dish to prevent drying during baking.

3. Baking:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the salmon bake for 25-30 minutes. Occasionally, drizzle the fillets with the sauce from the dish to keep them moist and flavorful.

4. Preparing the sauce:
- Meanwhile, in a pan, melt the butter cube over medium heat.
- Gradually add the flour, continuously whisking to avoid lumps. This step is essential to achieve a creamy and smooth sauce.
- Once the flour is well incorporated, start adding the champagne little by little, stirring constantly. Here, patience is key. The sauce will gradually thicken.

5. Finalizing the sauce:
- After adding all the champagne, integrate the orange juice and diced oranges. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it becomes homogeneous.
- Season the sauce with salt and white pepper to taste. This sauce will add an extra dimension to your dish.

6. Serving:
- Once the salmon is ready, remove it from the oven and carefully place it on a platter. Cover it with the champagne and orange sauce, allowing the flavors to meld.
- You can garnish with the roasted orange slices from the baking dish for an appealing look.

Practical tips

- Choosing the salmon: Choose fresh salmon fillets with a firm texture and vibrant color. Wild salmon has a more pronounced flavor, but farmed salmon is also a good option.
- Sauce variation: If you want a spicier sauce, you can add a little chili pepper or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce mixture.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, as well as a fresh salad. A bottle of champagne or a dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another fish instead of salmon?
Of course! You can substitute salmon with trout, tuna, or even white fish, but the baking time may vary.

2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more flour or let the sauce simmer for a longer time.

3. What side dish options can I use?
In addition to mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, herb rice or quinoa are excellent options.

Nutritional benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of quality protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health and optimal brain function. Oranges add vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, and champagne, in moderation, can bring health benefits due to its antioxidants.

Now it's time to get cooking! Oven-baked salmon with champagne and orange sauce will not only impress with its appearance but also with its refined taste. Enjoy!