Salmon in almond crust, with salad and croutons

Almond-Crusted Salmon Recipe with Salad and Croutons

If you are looking for a delicious and healthy recipe, almond-crusted salmon is the perfect choice. This dish not only combines the intense flavors of fish with crunchy textures and a fresh salad but also adds a touch of refinement to every meal. Salmon is a versatile ingredient, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, while almonds provide a crunchy note and an excellent source of protein.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
For the salmon:
- 3 salmon fillets (or 4 small medallions)
- 2 tablespoons of ground almonds
- A few fresh parsley leaves
- A few fresh cilantro leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 lime (juice)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

For the salad:
- 3 green onions
- 3 radishes
- A medium salad (like iceberg or romaine)
- 1 tablespoon of roasted and salted cashews
- 1 tablespoon of roasted and salted peanuts
- 1/2 lime (juice)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of pistachio oil

For the croutons:
- 2-3 slices of bread
- 1 teaspoon of butter

Preparation:

1. Preparing the salmon:
Start by cleaning and washing the salmon fillets well. Dry them with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. This is an essential step, as wet fish will not achieve a crispy crust. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then drizzle with a little lime juice to enhance the flavors. This step adds a note of freshness and a slight tangy taste. Let the salmon chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the almond crust:
In a deep plate, combine the ground almonds with finely chopped parsley and cilantro. This combination will give a fresh aroma and a pleasant appearance to the fish. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Cooking the salmon:
Remove the salmon from the refrigerator and coat it with the almond mixture, ensuring it is evenly covered. Heat a pan with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the salmon to the pan and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. It is important not to flip the salmon too early; otherwise, the crust will come off.

4. Preparing the salad:
Meanwhile, wash and clean the vegetables for the salad. Slice the green onions into rings, the radishes into thin slices, and chop the salad into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix all the vegetables with salt, pistachio oil, and lime juice to taste. Finally, add the chopped cashews and peanuts. Using a mortar to lightly crush the nuts adds an interesting texture to the salad, making it more flavorful.

5. Preparing the croutons:
In the same pan where you cooked the salmon, add a teaspoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced bread slices. Toast them over high heat, stirring constantly, until they become golden and crispy on the outside. These croutons will add a pleasant contrast of textures and a savory taste to the dish.

6. Plating:
For an attractive presentation, arrange the salmon on a plate alongside the fresh salad. Don’t forget to sprinkle the croutons on top of the salad for an extra crunch.

7. Serving:
The almond-crusted salmon is served warm, alongside the fresh salad and crispy croutons. This dish is perfect for an elegant dinner but also makes for a delicious lunch. You can accompany the meal with a glass of white wine or a fruit cocktail for a refreshing touch.

Useful tips:
- Choose fresh, quality salmon to ensure the dish will be tasty.
- If you don’t have almonds, you can experiment with other types of nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts.
- Add herbs like dill or basil to the almond mixture to vary the flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but make sure it is well-thawed and drained before cooking.
- How can I make the salad more substantial? Add cubes of feta cheese or avocado for extra nutrients and flavor.
- What other sides go well with almond-crusted salmon? Wild rice or quinoa are excellent options.

Nutritional benefits:
Salmon is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and B12, contributing to cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Almonds provide antioxidants and are rich in vitamin E, while the vegetables in the salad offer an important supply of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

With every bite of almond-crusted salmon, you will feel transported to a world of flavors and textures. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent way to indulge in a healthy and colorful dish. Enjoy your meal!