This salmon dish is a treat! It features juicy salmon drizzled with a vibrant roasted red pepper sauce that adds a tasty kick. It’s colorful, healthy, and perfect for any meal!
I love how simple it is to make! Just roast the peppers, blend them up, and pour over the salmon. It’s a great way to impress friends without much fuss. Who knew cooking could be this fun? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is key here, but you can also use skinless salmon fillets if that’s your preference. If you can’t find salmon, trout or even chicken breasts work as great alternatives!
Red Bell Peppers: Roasted red peppers provide a sweet and smoky flavor. If you’re in a pinch, jarred roasted red peppers can save time and still taste delicious. You could also use canned red peppers.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like coconut cream for a tasty twist. Crème fraîche adds a nice tang too!
Garlic and Onion: Fresh garlic and onion enhance the sauce’s flavor. If you prefer milder tastes, try using garlic powder and onion powder instead.
How Do I Perfectly Roast Red Peppers?
Roasting red peppers brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Here’s how to achieve that perfect roast:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place whole red peppers on a baking sheet and let them roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Look for charred and blistered skins!
- Wrap the roasted peppers in a bowl with plastic wrap for about 10 minutes. This helps loosen the skins for easy peeling.
- Once cooled, peel off the charred skin, remove seeds and stems, and chop into pieces.
Taking your time to roast the peppers will elevate your dish and create a wonderful sauce!
Salmon With Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- For the Sauce:
- 3 large red bell peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Red Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes. Turn them occasionally until the skins are charred and blistered. Once done, remove from the oven and place the peppers in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a plate to let them steam for 10 minutes. After steaming, peel off the charred skin, remove the stems and seeds, and roughly chop the peppers.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
While the peppers roast, season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side down (if applicable), and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the roasted red peppers, and if you’re using it, the smoked paprika. Stir to combine, and pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors and thicken slightly.
4. Blend the Sauce:
Using an immersion blender or by transferring the mixture to a countertop blender, puree the sauce until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it down with a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve the Dish:
Spoon a generous amount of the roasted red pepper sauce onto each plate, and place a cooked salmon fillet on top! To finish, garnish with fresh chopped basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with a side of rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Salmon With Roasted Red Pepper Sauce!
Can I Use Skinless Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Skinless salmon fillets work just as well as those with skin. Just be mindful of cooking times, as skinless fillets may cook a little faster.
Can I Use Jarred Roasted Red Peppers Instead?
Yes, jarred roasted red peppers are a great timesaver! Just drain them well and use them in place of fresh roasted peppers for a similar flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened.
What Sides Pair Well with This Dish?
This salmon dish pairs beautifully with various sides! Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also delicious alongside a crisp salad.