Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise

Introduction

History

The origins of combining fish with horseradish date back centuries, with horseradish being a popular condiment in European cuisine for its ability to complement the rich flavors of fatty fish like salmon. The addition of mayonnaise and sour cream to create a creamy sauce is a more modern twist, providing a smooth texture and a mild base that enhances the pungency of the horseradish. This recipe is a fusion of traditional and contemporary culinary techniques, showcasing the versatility of salmon.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the salmon is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For an extra crispy skin, consider searing the salmon skin-side down in a hot pan for a few minutes before baking. When preparing the horseradish mayonnaise, adjust the amount of horseradish to suit your taste preference, adding more for a stronger kick or less for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the salmon with a side of steamed green vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, and a portion of quinoa or wild rice for a well-rounded meal. The creamy horseradish mayonnaise also pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the salmon at a high temperature ensures a moist interior with a slightly crisp exterior. Preparing the horseradish mayonnaise while the salmon bakes allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and creamy sauce that complements the fish perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If dry vermouth is not available, white wine or even chicken broth can be used as a substitute. Fresh horseradish can be replaced with prepared horseradish, though the flavor may be slightly milder. Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a tangier and slightly healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

The horseradish mayonnaise can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop further. The salmon can be seasoned and placed in the baking dish ahead of time, covered, and refrigerated until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salmon with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, and a few lemon slices for a pop of color and freshness. Serving the dish on a white platter can highlight the vibrant colors and make the meal even more appetizing.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp, dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a lemon-infused sparkling water complements the tangy horseradish mayonnaise and rich salmon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish and affect its texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a moderate-calorie meal option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the shallots and the small amount of dry vermouth used in the recipe. Each serving contains approximately 3-5 grams of carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Fats

Salmon is well-known for its high content of healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The light mayonnaise and sour cream used in the horseradish mayonnaise also contribute to the fat content, though in a much smaller amount. Each serving contains roughly 15-20 grams of fat, the majority of which are healthy unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, with each serving of this dish providing approximately 23-25 grams of protein. This makes it a great option for muscle repair and growth, as well as for maintaining a feeling of fullness after meals.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin D and B vitamins from the salmon, and vitamin C from the lemon juice. Salmon is also a good source of minerals such as selenium and phosphorus. These nutrients play various roles in the body, including supporting bone health, immune function, and energy production.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are fish (salmon) and dairy (mayonnaise, sour cream). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, with a low carbohydrate content. It is suitable for those following a variety of dietary preferences, including low-carb and gluten-free diets.

Summary

Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise is a flavorful, nutritious dish that combines the rich taste of salmon with the zesty kick of horseradish. With its simple preparation and gourmet appeal, it's an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This recipe not only offers a delicious meal but also provides a wealth of health benefits, making it a fantastic addition to any dietary plan.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Elizabeth, who had recently returned from a trip to Alaska. She excitedly shared with me a recipe she had learned while she was there, and I was immediately captivated by the sound of it.

The dish was simple yet elegant, a perfect way to highlight the delicate flavor of fresh salmon. It called for a fillet of salmon to be baked until just cooked through, then topped with a creamy horseradish mayonnaise that added a tangy kick to each bite. The combination of flavors sounded absolutely divine, and I knew I had to try it for myself.

Elizabeth graciously shared the recipe with me, along with a few tips and tricks she had picked up along the way. She explained that the key to a perfectly cooked salmon was to not overcook it, as it would become dry and tough. Instead, she recommended baking it just until the fish was opaque and flaked easily with a fork.

As I listened to her instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. I had always loved cooking and trying out new recipes, especially ones that had a story behind them. And this recipe, with its origins in Alaska, seemed to hold a special kind of magic.

The next day, I set out to gather all the ingredients I would need to make the Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise. I stopped by the local fish market to pick up a beautiful fillet of fresh salmon, then headed to the grocery store to grab the rest of the items on my list.

Back in my kitchen, I preheated the oven and got to work preparing the salmon. I carefully seasoned the fillet with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice before sliding it into the hot oven to bake. As the fish cooked, I mixed together the horseradish mayonnaise, a creamy concoction of mayonnaise, horseradish, and a bit of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

The aroma that filled my kitchen as the salmon baked was absolutely mouthwatering. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the finished dish. When the timer finally beeped, I pulled the salmon out of the oven and carefully spread a generous dollop of the horseradish mayonnaise on top.

I took my first bite, and it was every bit as delicious as I had imagined. The salmon was tender and flaky, with a perfectly crispy skin on top. The horseradish mayonnaise added a zesty kick that perfectly complemented the rich flavor of the fish.

I couldn't help but smile as I savored each bite, thinking about the journey this recipe had taken to reach my kitchen. From Alaska to my friend Elizabeth, and now to me, it felt like a piece of culinary history that I was honored to be a part of.

As I finished my meal, I knew that this Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise would become a staple in my recipe collection. It was a dish that spoke to my love of cooking and my appreciation for the stories that each recipe can tell.

And so, with a happy heart and a satisfied stomach, I cleaned up my kitchen and put away the leftovers for another day. I couldn't wait to share this recipe with my family and friends, passing on the tradition of delicious food and the joy of cooking that had been shared with me.

As I sat down to write out the recipe on a notecard, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the friendships and experiences that had brought this dish into my life. It was more than just a recipe – it was a connection to the past, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

And so, with a pen in hand and a smile on my face, I carefully wrote out the instructions for Baked Salmon with Horseradish Mayonnaise, knowing that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.

Categories

| Caper Recipes | Dry Vermouth Recipes | Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends | Horseradish Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Salmon Recipes | Shallot Recipes | Sour Cream Recipes | White Wine Recipes |

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