Pan Seared Salmon with Chia Seeds, Fennel Slaw, and Pickled Onions
Crispy pan-seared chia crusted salmon served over cool and crunchy fennel slaw, topped with quick pickled onions and dill. Paleo and gluten-free!
Crispy pan-seared chia crusted salmon served over cool and crunchy fennel slaw, topped with quick pickled onions and dill. Paleo and gluten-free!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 2 ounces wild salmon (or steelhead) filets ( i prefer thic
- 1/2 teaspoon dried mint dill or tarragon
- â½ lemon ( to finish)
- 1 large fennel bulb very thinly sliced ( a mandolin is great for this)
- 1 turkish cucumber
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced sweet onion
- 1/2 ounce package dill or tarragon
- 2-3 tablespoon lemon juice
- Carbohydrate 11.776795625429 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 6.77227251400361 g
- Fiber 5.62203508911517 g
- Protein 2.46460160807932 g
- Saturated Fat 0.854357362044918 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (164g)
- Sodium 99.5361486347013 mg
- Sugar 6.15476053631388 g
- Trans Fat 0.47610401579083 g
- Calories 110 calories
Step-by-step
- Make the slaw. Place the slaw ingredients in a medium bowl and toss well, adjusting salt and lemon. Set aside.
- Rinse and pat dry salmon. Brush the tops with olive oil.
- Place salt, pepper, dried herbs, granulated garlic, chia seeds in a small bowl and mix.
- Coat the top of the fish liberally with the chia mixture, pressing it down well with your fingers, all the way to the edges.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Let the pan get hot.
- Add the fish, chia seed side down and pan sear 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Using a metal spatula, carefully turn over, to keep crust intact and continue cooking until fish is cooked to desired doneness, 3-4 more minutes, or more depending on thickness.
- Divide the fennel slaw between two plates and place fish on top. Squeeze with lemon and top with pickled red onions and fresh dill.
Pan-Seared Salmon with a Zesty Twist: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like an impossible task. But let me tell you, this pan-seared salmon recipe is my secret weapon for a quick, satisfying, and impressive meal that the whole family loves. It's a culinary dance between crispy, flavorful salmon and a vibrant, refreshing fennel slaw – a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Forget complicated techniques and endless ingredient lists. This recipe embraces fresh, high-quality ingredients and lets their natural flavors shine. The chia seed crust adds a delightful crunch, while the pickled onions provide a tangy counterpoint to the richness of the salmon. The fennel slaw, with its delicate anise notes, is the perfect cooling complement to the warm, savory fish. I often make a big batch of slaw on the weekend and store it in the fridge – it’s a great base for various dishes throughout the week.
Why this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights:
- Speed: The entire cooking process takes less than 15 minutes, perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence.
- Simplicity: Minimal prep work and easy-to-find ingredients make this recipe accessible to everyone.
- Health: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, this dish is both delicious and nutritious. It's also paleo and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
- Flavor: The combination of crispy salmon, crunchy slaw, and tangy pickled onions creates a symphony of flavors that will elevate your weeknight dinner.
I often adapt this recipe to suit my mood and what I have on hand. Sometimes I swap the fennel for shredded cabbage or add other crunchy vegetables like shredded carrots. Experimenting with herbs is another way to personalize the dish. Fresh dill is a classic pairing, but tarragon or even a touch of cilantro can add a unique twist.
This salmon recipe isn't just for weeknights; it's also a fantastic option for a relaxed weekend brunch or a light and elegant dinner party. The beautiful presentation and vibrant flavors are sure to impress your guests. It’s a recipe that’s both satisfying and impressive without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Beyond the practical benefits, this dish brings a sense of calm to my hectic life. The process of preparing the meal – from chopping vegetables to the satisfying sizzle of the salmon in the pan – allows me to focus on the present moment and connect with my culinary creativity. It’s a reminder to take a breath, savor the simple things, and appreciate the nourishment both for my body and my soul.
So, next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner, give this pan-seared salmon recipe a try. It's a recipe that's easy to make, hard to forget, and guaranteed to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Trust me, your taste buds and your busy schedule will thank you.
