Salmon with lemon and mushrooms

Salmon with Lemon and Mushrooms: A Fresh and Healthy Delight

If you're looking for a quick and special recipe, salmon with lemon and mushrooms is the perfect choice! This dish not only combines the delicious flavors of fish with the freshness of lemon, but also with the fine texture of mushrooms. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that is sure to impress your guests. You'll find that preparing salmon is easier than you might think, and the result is absolutely worthy of a restaurant.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 55 minutes
Servings: 2

The history of the salmon with lemon and mushrooms recipe is closely tied to culinary traditions around the world. Fish is a source of quality protein, and mushrooms are recognized for their nutritional benefits. This combination has been appreciated over time for its refined taste and simplicity in preparation.

Ingredients:
- 2 salmon medallions (or one fillet, as preferred)
- A handful of chopped fresh parsley
- Juice from 2-3 lemons (enough to cover the fish)
- 3-4 capers
- 50 g butter (at room temperature)
- Whole mushrooms (approximately 200 g)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fish seasoning (preferably a flavorful blend)
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon of sweet or smoked paprika

Step by step:

1. Preparing the salmon: Start by gently rinsing the salmon medallions under cold running water. Then, dry them with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a nice crust when cooking.

2. Marinating: In a bowl, squeeze the juice from 2-3 lemons and mix it with salt, pepper, fish seasoning, the peeled and crushed garlic, and the chopped parsley. This marinade will give the fish a delicious and fresh flavor. Add the salmon medallions to the marinade, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it sit in the fridge for about two hours. This time will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the fish.

3. Preparing the mushrooms: While the salmon is marinating, you can prepare the mushrooms. Wash them well and then place them on a piece of aluminum foil. Season them with salt, pepper, a little paprika, and a few cubes of butter. Drizzle with olive oil for added flavor. Gather the foil to form a tightly sealed packet.

4. Preparing the salmon for the oven: Once the salmon has marinated, take it out of the fridge and let it drain a bit. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a piece of aluminum foil with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking. Place the salmon medallion on the foil and top it with 3-4 capers and a small cube of butter. If necessary, season with a little salt. Fold the foil to form a sealed packet, making sure to gather the ends upwards to prevent any sauce from leaking out.

5. Baking: Place the salmon packet in the oven alongside the mushroom packet. Let them bake for about 40 minutes. If you prefer your mushrooms well-cooked, you can leave the mushroom packet to bake at the same temperature for the full 40 minutes.

6. Serving: After 40 minutes, remove the packets from the oven. Carefully open the salmon foil, being cautious of the hot steam. The salmon should be tender and juicy. You can serve it directly in the foil or transfer it to a plate. The mushrooms can be served in their foil to keep them warm.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best results. You can buy it from a reputable fishmonger or a trusted grocery store.
- If you want a stronger lemon flavor, you can add lemon slices on top of the salmon before wrapping it in foil.
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or porcini, to add a distinctive taste.
- If you don't have time to let the salmon marinate, you can skip this step, but marinating will significantly enhance its flavor.
- This recipe pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a cold herbal tea, which will complement the dish's flavors harmoniously.

Nutritional benefits:
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. Additionally, mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and minerals. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients for the body.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with other types of fish, such as trout or sea bream. Choose a fatty fish for the best results.

2. Can I prepare this recipe on the grill?
Absolutely! You can grill the salmon following the same instructions, but make sure to use a grilling tray to prevent sticking.

3. How can I vary the seasonings?
You can add seasonings like garlic powder, oregano, or rosemary to customize the flavor.

4. What are some side dish suggestions?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or mashed potatoes for a complete lunch or dinner.

5. Is this recipe suitable for diets?
Yes, salmon is a food rich in protein and healthy fatty acids, while mushrooms add fiber, making this recipe an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

I hope you try this delicious recipe for salmon with lemon and mushrooms and enjoy every bite! It's a perfect choice for a family lunch or a romantic dinner, bringing a touch of refinement and health to your meals. Bon appétit!