Seared Salmon with Sugar Snap Peas
Quick and healthful dinners don’t have to sacrifice flavor for speed. Try this recipe for flawlessly seared salmon with crisp sugar snap peas and a zesty mustard dip. This seafood meal is ideal for weeknights when time is of the essence . Make sure you look over our detailed recipe below so you can wow your loved ones with this sophisticated dinner!
Interesting Facts About Seared Salmon and Sugar Snap Peas
Salmon Facts:
- Varieties: There are several types of salmon, including Atlantic, Chinook (King), Sockeye (Red), Coho (Silver), and Pink. Each has its unique flavor and texture, and all taste good when seared.
- Life Cycle: Salmon are known for their incredible life cycle. It includes migrating from freshwater to the ocean and back again to spawn in the rivers where they were born.
Sugar Snap Peas Facts:
- Hybrid Origin: Sugar snap peas are a hybrid of snow peas and garden peas. They combine the best traits of both for a sweet and crunchy vegetable.
- Edible Pods: Unlike many other peas, the entire pod of sugar snap peas is edible, making them a convenient and nutritious snack.
Fun Variations to Try with Seared Salmon and Sugar Snap Peas
Asian-Inspired Twist:
- Soy-Ginger Glaze: Add a soy-ginger glaze to the seared salmon for an Asian-inspired flavor. Mix soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey, then brush it over the salmon during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Sesame Sugar Snap Peas: Toss the sugar snap peas with toasted sesame oil and sesame seeds for a nutty, savory twist.
Mediterranean Flavor:
- Herb-Crusted Salmon: Coat the seared salmon with a mixture of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano before searing for a Mediterranean flair.
- Lemon-Garlic Peas: Sauté the sugar snap peas with minced garlic and a splash of lemon juice for a zesty Mediterranean side.
Serving Suggestions for Seared Salmon with Sugar Snap Peas
- Plate It Perfectly: Arrange the seared salmon filets and sugar snap peas on a plate. Serve with a side of the tangy mustard dip. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top of the salmon for an added burst of flavor and color.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the salmon and the mustard dip.
Conclusion
This perfectly seared salmon with sugar snap peas and tangy mustard dip is sure to become a weeknight favorite. It’s healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. You can also easily vary the flavor by incorporating different twists, such as Asian or Mediterranean influences.
Perfectly Seared Salmon with Sugar Snap Peas
Discover how to make a delicious and healthy meal with our step-by-step recipe for perfectly seared salmon with sugar snap peas and a tangy mustard dip. This easy seafood dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and sure to impress your family and friends.
Equipment
- 1 non-stick skillet
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon filets with skin
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sugar Snap Peas:
- 2 cups sugar snap peas
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dip:
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- A splash of lemon juice
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients
Cook the Sugar Snap Peas
- Prepare the Peas: Rinse the sugar snap peas under cold water. Trim the ends and remove the side strings.
- Sauté the Peas: In a non-stick skillet, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sugar snap peas and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the peas are tender-crisp and vibrant green. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Remove from heat, and set them aside.
Prepare the Salmon
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon filets dry with a paper towel. Season the skin side of the salmon with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Salmon: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Place the salmon filets in the skillet, skin-side down. Add unsliced garlic cloves to infuse the cooking oil.
- Sear the salmon for about 2 minutes, or until half the depth of the salmon becomes a lighter color. Season with salt and pepper. The skin should be crispy, and the fish mostly cooked through.
- Flip the fillets and add butter to the pan. Baste the salmon with the melted butter, letting it cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Tangy Mustard Dip
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and a splash of lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
Serving
- Let the salmon sit on the plate, and place sugar snap peas on the side. Add some mustard dip, and serve them hot.
Video
Notes
- Crispy Skin: Ensure the salmon skin is dry before cooking to achieve a perfectly crispy texture.
- Tender-Crisp Peas: Avoid overcooking the sugar snap peas to maintain their crunchy texture and vibrant color.
- Personalize the Dip: Adjust the mustard and lemon juice in the dip to suit your taste preference.