Delicious Caramelized Salmon Recipe With Cherry Salsa
Indulging in a delicious meal can be a wonderful experience, especially when it is homemade with love and care. As a passionate home chef who loves to throw parties, I have developed a recipe that is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Allow me to introduce you to the delectable Caramelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa Recipe.
This recipe boasts of juicy salmon fillets coated in a sweet and savory glaze, complemented by the fresh and tangy flavors of cherry salsa. With every bite, you get an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Whether you are hosting a barbecue, dinner party or just want to indulge in something special, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It is easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients that are readily available and can be made ahead of time.
So, grab your apron, preheat your oven and let us dive into the world of culinary delights with the Caramelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa Recipe. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you on the lookout for a delicious yet healthy meal that will impress your guests? Look no further than this Caramelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa recipe!
Here’s why you’ll love it: not only is it packed with nutrients and flavor, but it’s also customizable to suit your taste preferences. This dish features succulent salmon fillets coated in a sweet and savory caramelized glaze, topped with a refreshing cherry salsa that adds a pop of tartness to balance out the dish.
The best part is that this recipe caters to different dietary requirements as well. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, simply omit the sugar and substitute with a sugar alternative such as honey or agave nectar. You can also swap out the salmon for grilled chicken or even barbequed tofu if you prefer.
Another reason this recipe will make you fall in love is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or a large family gathering, this dish will undoubtedly impress your guests. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a fancy date night to a casual summer get-together.
To add more personalization, choose your favorite variety of cherries for the salsa. Tart cherries work perfectly with the salmon, but you can also try sweet cherries, sour cherries or even cherry tomatoes if desired. You can even add some diced avocado for some creaminess and texture.
Overall, this recipe is easy to prepare, nutritious and absolutely delicious – it’s sure to become a household favorite in no time.
Ingredient List
Here are all the ingredients you will need to create this caramelized salmon with cherry salsa recipe, which can easily serve 4 to 6 people.
Salmon
- 2 lbs. salmon fillets, skin on
- 3 tbsp. packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp. grated orange peel
- 1/2 tsp fresh coarse ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Cherry Salsa
- 1 cup tart cherries, pitted and halved
- 3 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and crushed red pepper flakes, to taste
Caramelized Salmon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
If you choose fresh frozen salmon fillet for this recipe, make sure that they are completely thawed before using them. In case you don’t have access to tart cherries, you can try substituting them with other stone fruits such as peaches or plums.
The Recipe How-To
Now let’s get to the most important part, the recipe! This caramelized salmon with cherry salsa recipe is straightforward and perfect for novice cooks. Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can achieve a delectable meal:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs. fresh or frozen salmon fillets, skin-on
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup tart cherries, packed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix together the brown sugar, orange zest, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the mixture onto the top of the salmon.
- Bake for about 12 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Meanwhile, prepare the cherry salsa by mixing together the tart cherries, cilantro, mint, brown sugar, and orange peel in a separate bowl.
- Serve the caramelized salmon topped with cherry salsa.
Now that you have completed all steps, it’s time to indulge in a truly one-of-a-kind dish that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up with this recipe? Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations that will take your caramelized salmon with cherry salsa to the next level.
First up, let’s talk about the fruit. While the tartness of cherries is a perfect complement to the rich flavor of caramelized salmon, you could also try using mangoes or papaya for a tropical twist. Or, if you want to stick with a cherry theme, consider using sour cherries instead of sweet ones.
When it comes to herbs, cilantro and mint are already included in the cherry salsa recipe, but why not add some fresh basil as well for an extra burst of flavor? And if you want to add some heat, feel free to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
If you’re not a fan of salmon (or just can’t get your hands on any), this recipe can also work well with other types of fish, such as roasted or grilled chicken. You can even use a plank of wood to give your fish that delicious smoky flavor.
For those looking for vegetarian options, roasted or baked tomatoes make a delicious salsa ingredient. Brushing honey-tart cherry glaze over grilled/baked salmon fillet is another substitution option.
Lastly, why not experiment with pairing your dish with different sides? I like having avocado salsa and a light salad on the side for a fresh contrast, but you can also serve it over rice for something heartier. Red wine or lemonade will be perfect beverage pairings for this culinary masterpiece.
Whatever variations you choose to make on this recipe, I hope it inspires you to explore new flavor combinations and make this dish uniquely yours.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your caramelized salmon with cherry salsa recipe is ready, it’s time to have a delightful dining experience. This dish has just the right balance of flavors and will leave you satisfied without feeling heavy.
For a complete meal, serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the delicious sauce from the salsa and complement the savory taste of the fish.
If you’re looking for an extra pop of flavor, try pairing your salmon with a salad. Mixed greens with light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad brings some refreshing crunchiness that blends nicely with the sweet salsa.
In addition to salads, grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini are another perfect pairing option. Their charred flavor adds another depth of texture and complements the dish’s sweetness without overpowering it.
For drinks, tart cherry juice or smoothies are excellent choices to emphasize the cherries’ sweetness in the salsa. A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc also pairs well with this dish.
Finish off your meal on a sweet note by serving some fruit slices topped with honey and a dash of cinnamon. This dessert adds some freshness to balance out the rich and sweet flavors in the caramelized salmon.
Remember to invite some friends over to share this culinary masterpiece and enjoy each other’s company while savoring this delicious dish!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Hosting a party can be stressful, but you can make it easier by making this Caramelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa recipe ahead of time. The good news is, this recipe can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
To store the salmon, let it cool to room temperature and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When reheating, simply place it into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
The cherry salsa also stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it covered tightly with saran wrap or an airtight lid to prevent any air from getting inside.
If you have any leftover salmon or salsa, don’t throw them away! You can use them for other delicious dishes. Leftover salmon can be used as filling for tacos, pasta dishes or even salads! The cherry salsa can also be used as a topping for grilled chicken or as a dip with tortilla chips.
When it comes time to serve your guests, make sure to arrange the caramelized salmon on a large serving platter and spoon over the cherry salsa on top of the fillets. Garnish with fresh herbs and additional zest and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing. Your guests will love this dish and they won’t believe that you were able to make it ahead of time!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve perfect results when making Caramelized Salmon With Cherry Salsa, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind. As a scribe for a home chef who loves throwing parties, I have compiled some helpful tips based on the recipe creator’s input.
Tip #1: Choose the Right Cherries
When making the cherry salsa, it is important to choose tart cherries rather than sweet ones. Tart cherries have a more acidic flavor, which balances well with the sweetness of the brown sugar and caramelized crust on the salmon fillets. Additionally, it is essential to use fresh cherries for optimal flavor and texture. If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries can be used as a substitute.
Tip #2: Caramelize the Salmon at High Heat
The key to perfectly caramelized salmon is to cook it at a high heat. The high heat creates a crispy exterior while keeping the interior of the fish moist and tender. When cooking the salmon, be sure to use a large enough pan to avoid overcrowding. This will prevent the salmon from steaming and ensure that it gets evenly browned.
Tip #3: Use Fresh Herbs
The cherry salsa is made with fresh herbs, including cilantro, mint, and basil. It is important to use fresh herbs instead of dried ones as they have more vibrant flavors that complement the salmon well. Be sure to chop the herbs finely before adding them to the salsa for even distribution.
Tip #4: Add Citrus Zest
Adding citrus zest, such as orange or lemon zest, is a simple way to enhance the flavor of both the salmon and cherry salsa. The citrus zest adds a bright, tangy note that complements the sweetness of the salsa and caramelization of the salmon.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfect results when making Caramelized Salmon With Cherry Salsa. Keep them in mind and impress your guests with this delicious and sophisticated dish!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Caramelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa recipe is a mouth-watering feast that will leave your guests raving about your culinary skills. With its combination of succulent salmon fillets, caramelized brown sugar, and tangy cherry salsa, this dish is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also versatile and customizable to suit every palate. You can substitute the tart cherries with mangoes or papaya for a tropical twist or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Moreover, this Caramelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa dish is perfect for entertaining guests at dinner parties or enjoying a fancy meal at home. You can serve it with a side salad or grilled vegetables and pair it with your favorite wine or cocktail.
Finally, if you’re looking for a make-ahead dish that saves time and effort, you can prepare the cherry salsa in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
In conclusion, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood with sweet and savory flavor combinations. So why not try this recipe today and delight your taste buds with the delectable flavors of caramelized salmon and tangy cherry salsa?
Caramelized Salmon With Cherry Salsa Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs salmon fillets, with skin
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
- 1 ripe mangoes (see note) or 1 papaya, seeded, peeled and chopped (see note)
- 1 cup frozen tart cherries, thawed, drained and halved
- 2 2 tablespoons fresh basil or 2 tablespoons cilantro
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Stir together brown sugar, orange peel and pepper.
- Place fish, skin side down, in a shallow pan.
- Rub sugar mixture over fish.
- Cover and refrigerate 2 to 8 hours.
- Remove fish from pan, draining off any juices.
- Place salmon, skin-side down, on gas grill over medium heat or on charcoal grill 4 to 6 inches from medium-hot coals.
- Grill for 20 to 25 minutes, or until fish flakes easily; do not turn fish.
- Meanwhile, toss together mango or papaya, cherries, mint, vinegar and red pepper.
- Spoon fruit salsa over warm fish.
- Serve immediately.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!