Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful and healthy meal, grilled salmon with avocado salsa is a perfect choice. This dish combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with a zesty, fresh avocado salsa that elevates its taste. Perfect for a summer dinner or a wholesome weeknight meal, it is both simple and quick to prepare. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
– 2 pounds salmon fillets (skin on or off)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Avocado Salsa:
– 1 avocado, cubed
– ½ red onion, sliced or diced
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Total Time
38 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
To prepare this vibrant dish, first combine your spices in a small bowl, creating a flavorful rub for the salmon. After marinating the salmon in a mix of olive oil and spices, let it absorb the flavors in the refrigerator. While the salmon is marinating, create a refreshing avocado salsa to top it off after grilling. With careful attention to cooking time, you’ll have perfectly grilled salmon in no time, ready to be paired with the lively avocado salsa. Serve immediately for a dish that’s sure to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, ancho chili powder, ground cumin, ground paprika, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil to coat them thoroughly. Next, take the prepared spice mixture and evenly coat the salmon fillets with it, ensuring all sides are seasoned.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish.
Step 4: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
In a separate bowl, combine the cubed avocado, sliced red onion, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently to avoid mashing the avocado. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it until ready to serve.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature between 350-375°F. This ensures the salmon cooks evenly.
Step 6: Grill the Salmon
Place the marinated salmon fillets on the grill. Grill for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Cook until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches your desired doneness.
Step 7: Add Avocado Salsa
Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the grill. Top each fillet with a generous portion of the prepared avocado salsa.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the grilled salmon immediately, garnished with the avocado salsa, and enjoy your meal.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Freshness of Ingredients
Use ripe avocados for the salsa to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Storage
Leftover salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out. The avocado salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept in an airtight container for a short period.
Customizations
Feel free to adjust the spices in the rub according to your taste preferences or substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the salmon in the spice mixture allows the flavors to deeply infuse the fish, enhancing its taste and tenderness.
Grilling
Grilling is a cooking technique that involves cooking the salmon over direct heat. Ensure the grill is preheated to medium heat for optimal cooking.
Preparing Salsa
Combining the avocado, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro in a separate bowl creates a fresh and zesty salsa that complements the salmon perfectly.
Temperature Control
Monitoring the temperature of the grill and the cooking time for the salmon is crucial to achieve the desired doneness without overcooking.
Presentation
Topping the grilled salmon with avocado salsa not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used. Just ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and grilling.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
If lime juice is not available, lemon juice can be used as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.
Is there an alternative for avocado in the salsa?
If you prefer a different ingredient, you can substitute avocado with diced mango or pineapple for a fruity twist.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Can I make the avocado salsa in advance?
Yes, the avocado salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance, but it’s best to eat it fresh to maintain the avocado’s color and texture.
Conclusion
Grilled salmon topped with fresh avocado salsa is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and vibrant colors. This recipe not only highlights the natural taste of salmon but also incorporates healthy ingredients that enhance its appeal. The combination of spices offers a flavorful kick, while the avocado salsa adds a refreshing contrast. It’s a perfect choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Mango Salsa
Swap the avocado for diced mango for a sweet and spicy twist. Add jalapeños for heat and serve with grilled chicken.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Pair with the salmon and avocado salsa for a complete meal. The zesty rice complements the flavors beautifully.
Grilled Asparagus
Serve alongside the salmon for a colorful and nutritious side. Drizzle with lemon for added freshness.
Quinoa Salad
Prepare a salad with cooked quinoa, diced vegetables, and a lime vinaigrette. It adds a healthy grain component to the meal.
Garlic Lemon Butter Shrimp
For a seafood variation, try shrimp pan-seared with garlic and lemon butter. Serve with the same avocado salsa for a delightful pairing.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the spice mix from the salmon to flavor ground turkey or beef, then stuff into bell peppers and bake for another delicious option.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
These can be seasoned similarly and roasted until crispy, providing a sweet and savory side dish that pairs well with the salmon.
