Ah, salmon! That delightful jewel of the sea that’s both the hero and the muse of my kitchen adventures. Picture this:
a sizzling skillet, the aroma of searing salmon dancing through the air—it’s a symphony of flavors waiting to unfold. But hold on, because just when you think it can’t get any better, there’s that creamy cilantro lime sauce, like a zesty encore. It’s like discovering a secret beach on a well-known coast, unexpected yet perfectly fitting.
Steps
- To make the sauce, blend sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, lime juice, and sliced garlic in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt to taste and set aside while you prepare the salmon.
- In a small bowl, mix together cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and evenly coat both sides with the spice mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, top side down, and cook for about 4 minutes without moving them.
- Flip the salmon and continue cooking on the other side for 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through. Serve warm, drizzled with the creamy cilantro lime sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless salmon fillets, each weighing 6 oz
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 – 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, trimmed and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves (with some stem)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, sliced
- Salt to taste (approximately 1/4 teaspoon)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1480 | Calories from Fat: 576 | Fat: 64g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 432mg | Sodium: 404mg | Potassium: 3640mg | Carbohydrates: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 136g | Vitamin A: 1780IU | Vitamin C: 17.2mg | Calcium: 244mg | Iron: 7.2mg
FAQ
- How long does it take to prepare Cilantro Lime Salmon?
- This dish can be ready in about 20 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick dinner.
- Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the cilantro lime sauce?
- Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, but the sauce may not be as rich. It’s recommended to use full-fat Greek yogurt for a better texture and flavor.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Cilantro Lime Salmon?
- This salmon pairs well with fresh side dishes such as Black Bean and Corn Salad, Coconut Rice, or a Simple Side Salad.
- What tips can you provide for successfully pan searing salmon?
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon to achieve a good sear. Avoid moving the salmon while it cooks to help it brown nicely.
- Can I make more servings of Cilantro Lime Salmon with the same amount of sauce?
- Yes, the recipe’s sauce quantity is sufficient for 5 to 6 fillets. If you need more servings, increase the spice rub amounts and consider using two skillets.
Tips
- Ensure you pack the cilantro tightly in the measuring cup to maximize its flavor in the sauce, as cilantro is the key ingredient that elevates the dish.
- Allow the skillet to heat up thoroughly before adding the salmon to achieve a nice, crispy sear on the outside.
- Avoid moving the salmon while it cooks to help it brown evenly and develop a desirable crust.
- If preparing more than four fillets, double the spice rub and use two skillets to ensure all the fillets cook evenly and the sauce is sufficient for 5-6 servings.
Equipment
- Food Processor – For making the cilantro lime sauce by processing cilantro, lime juice, green onions, and garlic until smooth.
- Heavy 12-inch Non-Stick Skillet – For pan-searing the salmon to achieve a golden brown crust and tender interior.
