Salmon with oranges and black rice

Let's embark on a delicious culinary journey with a recipe that combines the fine flavors of salmon with the sweetness of orange and the unique texture of black rice. This recipe is not just a simple dish; it is an experience that will delight everyone's taste buds. You will impress your family and friends with a dish that looks elegant and refined, yet is easy to prepare.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 1 large, juicy orange
- 1 teaspoon of whole red pepper
- 1 teaspoon of lemon and pepper mix (available in stores or can be made at home from dried lemon zest and pepper)
- Salt, to taste
- 100 grams of black rice
- 100 grams of leek
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 cube of butter (approximately 20 g)
- 50 grams of frozen peas
- 500 ml of vegetable or meat broth

Preparing the salmon with orange:

1. Preparing the salmon: Start by preheating the oven to 250 degrees Celsius. Place the salmon fillets in a ceramic dish. It is important to use a dish that retains heat and distributes temperature evenly to achieve tender and juicy salmon.

2. The orange: Wash the orange well and cut 4 thin slices. The rest of the orange will be squeezed to obtain the juice. Fresh orange juice will not only add a delicate flavor but will also help tenderize the fish.

3. Marinating the salmon: Pour the orange juice over the salmon fillets. This step is essential for infusing the fish with citrus flavors. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, the lemon and pepper mix to enhance the taste. Place the orange slices on top of the salmon, followed by a few whole red peppercorns. These add a color contrast and a spicy note.

4. Baking: Cover the dish with baking paper, which will help retain moisture and prevent the salmon from drying out. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this interval, remove the baking paper and let the fish brown for 5 minutes. This will add a slightly crispy crust that will complement the tender texture of the salmon.

Preparing the rice with leek and peas:

1. Preparing the leek: Meanwhile, clean the leek and slice it thinly. In a deep skillet, add the olive oil and butter cube. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts. Add the leek and sauté until it turns golden and soft, about 5-7 minutes. The leek not only adds a fine taste but is also an excellent source of nutrients.

2. Cooking the rice: Add the black rice to the skillet and let it fry together with the leek for 2-3 minutes. Black rice has a slightly nutty flavor and is rich in antioxidants. It will absorb the flavors of the leek, adding extra taste to the dish.

3. Adding the broth: Gradually add the broth, one ladle at a time, and stir gently. It is important to monitor the consistency of the rice; it should not dry out completely but remain slightly moist. After adding the last ladle of broth, add the frozen peas. This will add a note of freshness and color to the dish. Continue cooking until the rice absorbs almost all the liquid, then season with a little salt, to taste.

Serving:

Once the salmon is cooked and the rice is perfect, it's time to assemble the plates. Place a serving of black rice in one corner of the plate, and on top, place a salmon fillet glazed with orange juice and garnished with orange slices. You can decorate with a few whole red peppercorns on top for an elegant look.

This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade to balance the rich flavors of the salmon.

Useful tips:

- If you don't have black rice, you can substitute it with basmati rice or brown rice, but the cooking time will vary.
- You can also add other vegetables to the rice, such as carrots or zucchini, depending on your preferences.
- The salmon can be replaced with trout or cod, depending on availability and preferences.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This recipe for salmon with oranges and black rice is not only delicious but also healthy. The portion of salmon is an excellent source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Black rice is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, salmon can be replaced with any other freshwater or saltwater fish, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What other spices can I use?
You can add basil, dill, or fresh coriander to enhance the flavors.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Salmon and rice can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water to avoid drying out.

This simple and quick recipe for salmon with oranges and black rice will not only be a hit at dinner but will also bring a touch of refinement to your kitchen. Try it and enjoy every bite!