Baked Salmon with Lavender

Baked Salmon with Lavender Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Baked Salmon with Lavender is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the rich, oily texture of salmon with the delicate, floral notes of lavender. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress at dinner parties or simply elevate their weeknight meal routine. The combination of organic honey, virgin olive oil, white wine, and a hint of lemon juice creates a sauce that perfectly complements the salmon, while the lavender adds an unexpected twist that will delight your taste buds.

History

The use of lavender in cooking dates back to ancient times, where it was prized for its aroma and medicinal properties. However, incorporating lavender into savory dishes, particularly with salmon, is a relatively modern culinary innovation. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional French cuisine, where herbs are used liberally to enhance the flavors of meats and fish. The Baked Salmon with Lavender recipe is a testament to the evolving nature of culinary arts, blending traditional and contemporary flavors to create something truly unique.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) of salmon filet (serves 8-10 people)
4 tbsp of organic honey (available at Warm Colors Apiary in Conway, MA)
6 tbsp of virgin olive oil
half-teaspoon of crushed lavender (crushed with mortar & pestle)
quarter-cup of white wine
1 tbsp of tamarind paste (available at Asian market; worcestershire sauce may be substituted)
1 tbsp of lemon juice

How to prepare

Place all ingredients, except salmon, in a saucepan over moderate heat. Stir with a wire whisk continuously until the ingredients are reduced by one-third, creating a sauce.
Once the sauce has cooled slightly, brush it onto the salmon filet.
To bake the salmon, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cover the salmon with the sauce, reserving some to pour over the salmon before serving.
Bake for 10 minutes or until the salmon is flaky, basting occasionally.

Variations

For a different twist, try using different herbs such as rosemary or thyme instead of lavender. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Baked Salmon with Lavender, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.

- Crush the lavender gently with a mortar and pestle to release its oils without turning it into powder.

- Allow the sauce to cool slightly before brushing it onto the salmon to prevent cooking the fish prematurely.

- Baste the salmon occasionally while baking to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Salmon with Lavender on a bed of quinoa or wild rice, accompanied by steamed green beans or asparagus for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with fresh lavender flowers for an elegant touch.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the recommended cooking technique for this recipe, as it allows the salmon to cook evenly while retaining its moisture. Basting the salmon during baking helps to infuse it with the flavors of the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lavender is not available, dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary can be used as a substitute. Apple cider vinegar can replace lemon juice for a different acidity, and maple syrup can be used instead of honey for sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Brush it onto the salmon just before baking to save time on busy nights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salmon on a platter garnished with lemon slices and fresh lavender sprigs. Drizzle the reserved sauce over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors of the salmon and lavender.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the fish.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Salmon with Lavender contains approximately 280 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the organic honey and the white wine used in the sauce. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb 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 addition of virgin olive oil adds monounsaturated fats to the dish. Each serving contains roughly 15 grams of fat, the majority of which are healthy fats.

Proteins

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Each serving of this dish provides approximately 23 grams of protein, making it a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin D and B vitamins from the salmon, and antioxidants from the lavender and lemon juice. It also provides a good source of selenium, phosphorus, and potassium.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are fish (salmon) and potentially honey for those with specific allergies. It is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance.

Summary

Baked Salmon with Lavender is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

Baked Salmon with Lavender is a sophisticated and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the delicate aroma of lavender. With its balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, it is a perfect addition to any meal plan. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a special weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Baked Salmon with Lavender. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in the countryside. Margaret was an avid gardener, and her backyard was a colorful paradise of flowers and herbs. As we sat on her porch sipping tea, she suddenly got up and disappeared into her kitchen. Curious, I followed her inside.

Margaret was rummaging through her collection of cookbooks when she finally pulled out a worn, tattered recipe book. She dusted it off and flipped through the pages until she found what she was looking for - Baked Salmon with Lavender. I watched as she gathered the ingredients, her hands moving with practiced grace. She explained to me that the recipe was passed down to her from her grandmother, who had learned it from a French chef many years ago.

As Margaret prepared the salmon, the delicate aroma of lavender filled the air, mingling with the savory scent of the fish. I was mesmerized by the way she combined the flavors, the lavender adding a unique and unexpected twist to the dish. When the salmon was finally done baking, she plated it beautifully and we sat down to enjoy our meal.

The first bite was a revelation. The salmon was perfectly cooked, tender and flaky, with a subtle hint of lavender that danced on my taste buds. The flavors were harmonious and balanced, a true culinary masterpiece. Margaret smiled at my expression of delight, knowing that she had just introduced me to a new favorite dish.

After that day, I couldn't stop thinking about the Baked Salmon with Lavender. I begged Margaret for the recipe, but she insisted that it was a family secret and could not be shared. Determined to recreate the dish on my own, I set out on a mission to learn how to make it.

I turned to my own collection of cookbooks and scoured the internet for any references to Baked Salmon with Lavender. I experimented with different recipes, tweaking and adjusting until I found the perfect combination of ingredients. I visited farmers markets and herb gardens, searching for the freshest lavender to use in my dish.

Finally, after many attempts and failures, I was able to recreate the Baked Salmon with Lavender to perfection. The flavors were just as I remembered - delicate, aromatic, and utterly delicious. I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride as I served the dish to my family and friends, watching their faces light up with pleasure.

Over the years, I have continued to make Baked Salmon with Lavender, each time adding my own personal touch to the recipe. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am known for among my loved ones. Whenever I prepare it, I am reminded of that fateful day at Margaret's house, and the magic of discovering a new culinary treasure.

As I grow older, I treasure the memories of learning to make Baked Salmon with Lavender. It is a reminder of the joy of cooking, the pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones, and the magic of discovering new flavors and ingredients. I am grateful to Margaret for introducing me to this wonderful recipe, and for inspiring me to become a better cook. And I hope that one day, I can pass on the tradition to future generations, sharing the recipe and the story behind it with those who are dear to me.