Ever wondered how to infuse gourmet flavors into everyday meals? Meet our Sesame Ginger Baked Salmon, a dish that melds rich aromatics with the nutritional powerhouse of salmon. Inspired by my journey through Asian cuisine, this recipe offers a perfect balance of zest and zeal—sure to entice your taste buds and boost your health.
Prep & Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 mins
- Cooking Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
Nutritional Breakdown
- Calories: Approximately 310 per serving
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fats: 20g (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
- Fiber: 2g
This dish provides about 35% of the recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for cardiovascular health and cognitive functions.
Ingredients
- Main ingredient: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instruction
- Prepare Marinade:
- Whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes in a bowl for a rich, aromatic marinade.
- Marinate Salmon:
- Lay salmon fillets in a dish, coat evenly with the marinade, cover, and refrigerate to infuse flavors for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a quick, searing heat for the salmon.
- Setup Baking Sheet:
- Line a sheet with foil, brush with sesame oil, and arrange the marinated salmon skin-side down, spacing them well.
- Roasting:
- Spoon any leftover marinade over the salmon and bake in the hot oven for about 20 minutes, until the salmon is caramelized and flakes easily.
- Finish and Serve:
- Immediately after baking, drizzle salmon with fresh lemon juice, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for a burst of freshness and crunch. Serve alongside your favorite greens or steamed rice.
FAQ Section:
Q: Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While salmon is ideal for its flavor and texture, feel free to substitute with other fatty fish like trout or Arctic char, which respond well to the robust flavors of the marinade.
Q: What alternatives can I use if I’m allergic to sesame?
A: If you need to avoid sesame, use a neutral oil like grapeseed or avocado oil for cooking, and consider a sprinkle of crushed, toasted nuts such as almonds for topping instead of sesame seeds for a similar crunch.
Q: Is there a low-sodium alternative to soy sauce?
A: Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the salt content without sacrificing the umami flavor that soy sauce provides. Coconut aminos is another great alternative with much lower sodium.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the salmon and store it in the refrigerator overnight. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld more deeply. However, for the best texture, bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this salmon?
A: This salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a mix of stir-fried greens.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover salmon can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish, although it can also be enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches.
Ready to elevate your dinner with a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? Try our Sesame Ginger Baked Salmon tonight and share your experience with us! For more healthful recipes, keep following our blog.
