Salmon in tomato sauce

Salmon in Tomato Sauce – a delicious and healthy recipe

Who doesn't love a simple yet tasty dish that combines textures and flavors? Salmon in tomato sauce is a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but is also easy to make. This dish is perfect for both a family dinner and a special occasion. I invite you to discover with me how you can bring an elegant and flavorful dish to your table!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 4 pieces of salmon (approximately 150-200g each, from a salmon fillet)
- 1 large bell pepper (preferably red for color contrast)
- 1 red onion
- 1 carrot
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- A pinch of turmeric
- A pinch of rosemary
- Sea salt, to taste
- 3 allspice berries
- 3 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste (for extra flavor and color)
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes (preferably Cirio Polpa for a fine texture)
- 2 and a half cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- White pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- A pinch of basil
- Optional: chopped parsley and chili pepper for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the salmon

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place a baking sheet on a tray and put the pieces of salmon on it. Now is the time to generously drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. This will help achieve a delicious crust. Sprinkle a pinch of basil, turmeric, salt, and rosemary on top, and then drizzle with lemon juice. This mixture will give a fresh and aromatic taste.

Step 2: Preparing the tomato sauce

In a larger pot (we suggest a Zepter pot for even cooking), add 2 and a half cups of water and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Grate the carrot, finely chop the bell pepper and onion. Put all these vegetables in the pot and mix well. Cover with a lid and let simmer over medium heat until the vegetables become soft, about 20 minutes. It is important not to sauté the vegetables before boiling them, as this will preserve their juiciness and natural flavors.

Step 3: Finalizing the sauce

Once the vegetables have softened, add the roasted pepper paste, chopped tomatoes, white pepper, bay leaf, allspice, and brown sugar (if you want a sweet-sour flavor). Mix well, then let the sauce simmer for another 5-10 minutes. This sauce will envelop the salmon in a rich and aromatic layer.

Step 4: Baking the salmon

Remove the tray from the oven. Using a spatula, carefully move the salmon pieces onto the sauce in the pot, ensuring that the sauce covers them evenly. Cover the pot with a lid and let it warm on low heat for another 5 minutes. This step will allow the salmon to absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Serving

Let the pot sit covered for another 5-10 minutes after turning off the heat. This will allow the flavors to intensify. Garnish with chopped parsley and, for a bit of heat, add slices of chili pepper. The salmon is excellent served alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Useful tips

- Choosing salmon: Opt for high-quality fresh or frozen salmon. Check the texture and color – the fillet should be moist but not sticky.
- Sauce variations: If you want a spicier sauce, add half a teaspoon of chili paste. Make sure to adjust the amount according to your preferences.
- Alternative serving: This dish can also be served with basmati rice or quinoa, which will absorb the rich sauce.

Nutritional benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Additionally, the vegetables in the sauce provide an important contribution of vitamins and minerals. This recipe is suitable for those who want to eat healthily, but also for those who want to enjoy a refined taste.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout or tilapia, but the cooking time will change.
- How can I make the sauce creamier? You can add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the final sauce for a creamier texture.

Personal stories

This recipe quickly became one of my favorites due to its simplicity and intense flavors. I remember one rainy evening, I decided to make it for friends. I used all the ingredients I had on hand, and to my surprise, everyone loved it! It was an evening full of laughter, stories, and, of course, delicious salmon.

So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious salmon in tomato sauce recipe! It’s simple, healthy, and will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Bon appétit!