Salmon with pistachios and baked potatoes

Salmon with pistachios and baked potatoes - a delicious and healthy recipe

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will share with you a savory recipe that combines the intense flavors of salmon with the crunchy texture of pistachios, alongside perfectly seasoned baked potatoes. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely healthy, making it an excellent option for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, I assure you that you will achieve an exceptional result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Recipe history

Salmon is a fish with a rich history in culinary preparation, appreciated since ancient times for its refined taste and nutritional benefits. Pistachios, on the other hand, have been used for centuries as an ingredient in various dishes, bringing a crunchy note and a distinct flavor. Combining these two ingredients is not just a modern attempt but also a celebration of culinary traditions that emphasize simplicity and naturalness.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 slices of fresh salmon (about 200g each)
- Olive oil (enough to coat the fish and potatoes)
- Pistachio flour (about 100g, or as needed to coat the salmon slices)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3 large potatoes
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 6-8 black olives (optional)
- A sprig of rosemary (optional, for added flavor)

Step by step for a perfect result

Step 1: Preparing the salmon

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This temperature will ensure even baking, leaving the salmon juicy and the potatoes golden.
2. Choose a baking tray and line it with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will prevent the salmon from sticking and make cleaning easier later.
3. In a bowl, combine pistachio flour with salt. This will be the savory crust that gives the salmon a special taste.
4. Dip each slice of salmon in the pistachio flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the slices in the tray with the flour-coated side facing up.

Step 2: Preparing the potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. They will bake faster and absorb the flavors in the tray.
2. Season the potatoes with salt, adding the bay leaves and rosemary. Mix well to ensure they are evenly coated with olive oil.
3. Arrange the potato cubes around the salmon slices in the tray. If desired, you can also add a few black olives for extra flavor.

Step 3: Baking in the oven

1. Cover the tray with another piece of aluminum foil. This step will help retain moisture and ensure even baking of the salmon and potatoes.
2. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 50 minutes. During this time, the flavors will blend perfectly, and the salmon will retain its juiciness.
3. After 50 minutes, remove the aluminum foil from the top and let it brown for about 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes become golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serving

1. Once the salmon and potatoes are ready, take the tray out of the oven. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
2. Carefully remove the side skin of the salmon and check for any bones. This wonderful meat will flake easily, allowing you to enjoy a worry-free meal.
3. Place the portions on plates, adding the potatoes alongside. A serving suggestion would be to add a slice of lemon for a splash of freshness.

Useful tips

- Pistachios: If you have a coffee grinder, you can grind the pistachios at home, obtaining fresh and aromatic flour. Choose unsalted pistachios to better control the salt level in the dish.
- Salmon: Choose fresh salmon, with pink and shiny flesh. This will provide a better taste compared to frozen salmon.
- Potatoes: If you want to speed up the cooking process, you can boil the potatoes in salted water for 5-10 minutes before adding them to the tray. This will significantly reduce the baking time.
- Variations: You can experiment with different spices or herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to add another level of flavor. You can also replace pistachios with almonds or walnuts for an alternative version.

Nutritional benefits

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart and brain health. It is rich in protein and vitamins, having a lower calorie content compared to other types of meat. Potatoes, on the other hand, are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins, being an excellent food for energy.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, frozen salmon is a good option, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. What other side dishes can I add? A green salad or steamed vegetables are excellent options to complement this dish.
3. How can I store leftovers? You can keep the salmon and potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

In conclusion, this recipe for salmon with pistachios and baked potatoes is ideal for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. Experiment with the ingredients and techniques, and feel free to add your variations to create a unique dish! Enjoy your meal!