Salmon in crust with pepper sauce

Salmon in Crust with Pepper Sauce: A Flavorful Delicacy

If you're looking for a recipe that will impress and add a touch of elegance to your table, salmon in crust with pepper sauce is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the juiciness of salmon with the delicate flavors of spinach and fresh herbs, all encased in a flaky puff pastry crust. Whether you want to serve this dish for a special occasion or simply indulge in a remarkable meal, this recipe is sure to win you over.

Preparation Time
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the salmon:
- 300 g puff pastry
- 2 salmon fillets (approximately 200 g each)
- 200 g spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley
- A few sprigs of fresh basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pepper sauce:
- 2 roasted yellow peppers
- 50 g butter
- 300 ml milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon
1. Start by removing the skin from the salmon, being careful not to lose any flesh. This step is essential for achieving tender and flavorful salmon.
2. Boil 2 liters of salted water in a pot. Once the water is boiling, add the salmon and let it cook for 5 minutes.
3. Turn off the heat and leave the salmon in the water until it reaches room temperature, then transfer it to the fridge for one hour. This method ensures that the fish remains moist and flavorful.

Step 2: Preparing the Spinach
1. If using frozen spinach, thaw it and drain it well. If you have fresh spinach, blanch it for 5 minutes, then drain and chop finely.
2. Mix the spinach with the crushed garlic, finely chopped parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Wrapping the Salmon
1. Roll out the puff pastry on a clean surface and cut it into two strips longer than the salmon fillets.
2. On each strip of pastry, evenly spread the spinach mixture, ensuring it is well distributed.
3. Place the salmon on top of the spinach and wrap it in the pastry, making sure it is well covered on all sides. Press the edges firmly to prevent any filling from leaking out.

Step 4: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Place the salmon rolls on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue baking for another 25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
3. Once done, let the rolls rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Preparing the Pepper Sauce
1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the julienned peppers and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften.
2. Add the milk and let it simmer for 20 minutes until the peppers are fully cooked.
3. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving
Slice the salmon and place it on plates, generously drizzling with the pepper sauce. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch. This combination of flavors will transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the salmon: Opt for fresh, sustainable salmon if possible. It will have a more intense flavor and a pleasant texture.
- Puff pastry: If you don't have time to make the pastry from scratch, feel free to use a high-quality store-bought version. However, homemade pastry will add a unique touch to the recipe.
- Recipe variations: You can experiment with different types of fish, such as trout or tuna. Additionally, adding cheese to the filling can enhance the flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. Spinach provides a rich supply of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice that perfectly complements this dish. The pepper sauce, rich in antioxidants, adds not only flavor but also nutritional benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables instead of spinach? Absolutely! Broccoli or zucchini can be excellent alternatives.
- How can I store leftover salmon? If you have leftovers, you can keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Gently reheat before serving.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or green tea are excellent choices that complement the delicate flavors of the salmon.

Salmon in crust with pepper sauce is more than just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will make you want to repeat it. So, step out of your daily routine and treat yourself to this delicious dish! Enjoy your meal!