Pecan-crusted salmon recipe

Pecan Crusted Salmon is a delightful and elegant dinner recipe that combines the rich flavors of pecans with the tender, flaky texture of salmon. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a celebration of sustainable and healthy eating. The crunchy pecan crust adds a delightful texture to the salmon, while the fresh herbs and spices enhance its natural flavor. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, as it is both easy to prepare and impressive to serve. The pecan crust provides a nutty and rich flavor profile that complements the salmon beautifully, making it a dish that will leave everyone begging for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Sockeye Salmon Fillets (cut into four pieces)
• 1 cup Raw Pecans (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Rosemary
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• Optional: Fresh Basil or Thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a food processor, combine the chopped pecans, rosemary, garlic powder, and salt. Process until the nuts are finely chopped.
3. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon dry and place skin-side down in a greased glass or ceramic baking dish.
4. Apply the Pecan Topping: Brush the tops of the salmon with olive oil and sprinkle with the pecan mixture. Press down gently to adhere the mixture to the top of the salmon.
5. Bake the Salmon: Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the salmon is cooked through. If it flakes easily, it is ready. If not, bake for an additional 2 minutes and check again.

Top Tips:

1. Choose Sustainable Salmon: Opt for sustainably-sourced salmon to ensure both your health and the health of our oceans.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme add a lot more flavor than dried herbs. However, dried herbs can be used if fresh ones are not available.
3. Don’t Overprocess the Pecans: Process the pecans until they are finely chopped but still retain some texture. Overprocessing can make them too fine and lose their crunch.
4. Keep it Moist: Brushing the salmon with olive oil helps keep it moist and ensures the pecan crust adheres well.
5. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or black pepper to the pecan mixture for added depth of flavor.
6. Make Ahead: The pecan topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you are ready to use it.

Variations:

1. Garlic Maple Glaze: Add a garlic maple glaze by toasting ginger and garlic in melted butter, then stirring in maple syrup. Brush this glaze over the salmon before baking.
2. Parmesan Pecan Crust: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with the chopped pecans for an extra rich and savory crust.
3. Herb Infusion: Infuse the pecan mixture with other herbs like basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
4. Grilled Option: Grill the salmon skin-side down over medium-high heat for 7 to 10 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
5. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pecan mixture for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The salmon provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, while the pecans add a boost of antioxidants and healthy fats. This dish is perfect for a balanced and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling full and content.