Introduction
Cooking can become a delightful experience when you combine fresh ingredients with simple techniques. This salmon dish brings together the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic, all topped with a savory balsamic glaze. Ideal for any occasion, it’s an easy way to impress guests or enjoy a sophisticated dinner at home.
Ingredients
Salmon filets: Fresh salmon works best, but thawed frozen salmon can also be used.
Cherry tomatoes: Preferably a mix of red and yellow for added sweetness and juiciness.
Fresh basil: Essential for its bright, sweet flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced to enhance the bruschetta topping.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
Balsamic glaze: Thicker and sweeter than regular balsamic vinegar; can be store-bought or homemade by reducing balsamic vinegar until syrupy.
Olive oil: Extra virgin for richness and flavor.
Kosher salt: Preferred for even seasoning; if using table salt, use slightly less.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy this vibrant dish that combines healthy ingredients and fresh flavors for a satisfying meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Bruschetta Topping
Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the fresh basil. Mince the garlic. Combine the tomatoes, basil, and garlic in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with kosher salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Salmon Filets
Place the salmon filets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Step 4: Season the Salmon
Season the salmon with Italian seasoning and a pinch of kosher salt.
Step 5: Add Bruschetta Mixture
Spoon the bruschetta mixture evenly over each salmon filet.
Step 6: Bake the Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze
Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Quality
Using fresh salmon enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Tomato Variety
A mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Herb Freshness
Fresh basil is crucial for achieving a bright and aromatic flavor.
Garlic Preparation
Freshly minced garlic will provide the best flavor compared to pre-minced alternatives.
Balsamic Glaze Options
You can make your own balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar in a saucepan until it becomes syrupy if store-bought is not available.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Bruschetta Topping
Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes to enhance their sweetness. Finely chop fresh basil and mince garlic to release its aromatic qualities. Combine these ingredients in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with kosher salt for a fresh topping.
Seasoning the Salmon
When seasoning salmon filets, use Italian seasoning and a pinch of kosher salt to elevate the flavor.
Applying the Bruschetta Mixture
Spoon the prepared bruschetta topping evenly over each seasoned salmon filet for a burst of flavor during baking.
Baking the Salmon
Bake the salmon in a preheated oven until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. This typically takes 12-15 minutes at 425°F (218°C).
Finishing Touch with Balsamic Glaze
After removing the salmon from the oven, drizzle balsamic glaze on top for added sweetness and depth of flavor before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon filets for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen salmon filets can be used in this recipe.
What type of tomatoes is best for the bruschetta topping?
A mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes is preferred for added sweetness and juiciness.
Can I make my own balsamic glaze?
Yes, you can make homemade balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar until it becomes thick and syrupy.
How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Is it necessary to use fresh basil?
Fresh basil is recommended for its bright, sweet flavor, but in a pinch, dried basil can be used, though the flavor will differ.
Conclusion
This salmon bruschetta recipe is a delightful and flavorful dish that marries the fresh taste of salmon with the vibrant and zesty bruschetta topping. The combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic, drizzled with balsamic glaze, elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. Perfect for a dinner party or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe showcases how fresh ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
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