Grilled Salmon with Tomato, Cucumber and Caper Salsa

Grilled Salmon with Tomato, Cucumber and Caper Salsa Recipe

Region / culture: England, Kuwait | Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 10-15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Grilled Salmon with Tomato, Cucumber and Caper Salsa

Grilled salmon is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. Paired with a refreshing tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

History

Grilled salmon has been a popular dish for centuries, with various cultures adding their own unique twists to the recipe. The addition of the tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa adds a fresh and tangy flavor that complements the rich taste of the salmon perfectly.

Ingredients

0.33 cup of fresh lemon juice
0.33 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
0.33 cup of chopped shallots
1 tbsp of grated lemon peel
1.75 tsp of ground cumin
1 medium English hothouse cucumber, unpeeled and diced
1 x 12 oz (340 g) basket of small cherry tomatoes, each quartered
1 large yellow bell pepper, diced
0.25 cup of drained capers
2 tbsp of chopped fresh cilantro (a parsley-like herb used as seasoning or garnish)
nonstick vegetable oil spray
1 x 2.5- to 2.75 lb (1.25 kg) salmon fillet with skin (1 whole side)

How to prepare

In a small bowl, whisk together the first 5 ingredients.
Season the marinade with salt and pepper.
In a medium bowl, combine 0.5 cup of marinade, cucumber, and the next 4 ingredients.
Season the salsa with salt and pepper.
Let the mixture stand for 30 minutes, tossing occasionally.
Spray the barbecue rack with nonstick spray and preheat the barbecue to medium-high heat.
Place the salmon, skin side down, in a large glass baking dish.
Top the salmon with the remaining marinade and let it stand for 10 minutes.
Sprinkle the salmon with salt and pepper.
To grill the salmon using a fish basket, spray the basket with nonstick spray.
Place the salmon in the fish basket, folding the tail under if the fish is too long.
Put the basket on the barbecue and grill the salmon, skin side up, for 5 minutes.
Turn the basket over and grill the salmon until it is just opaque in the center, about 5 minutes longer.
Turn the salmon out onto a platter.
To grill the salmon without using a basket, spray a rimless baking sheet with nonstick spray.
Place the salmon, skin side up, on the sheet and spray the skin with nonstick spray.
Slide the salmon, skin side up, onto the barbecue and grill for 5 minutes.
Stand the blade of a large spatula at one long side of the salmon to hold it in place.
From the opposite side, slide the rimless baking sheet completely under the salmon.
Hold the salmon with the spatula and turn the sheet and salmon over, releasing the salmon, skin side down, onto the barbecue.
Grill the salmon until it is just opaque in the center, about 5 minutes longer.
Slide the baking sheet under the salmon and transfer the fish to a platter.
Serve the salmon with the salsa.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different herbs or spices to the marinade, such as dill or paprika. You can also swap out the cucumber for avocado or add some diced red onion for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When grilling salmon, it's important to cook it just until it is opaque in the center to prevent it from becoming dry. Using a fish basket or a rimless baking sheet can help you easily flip the salmon on the grill without it falling apart. Marinating the salmon before grilling adds flavor and helps keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled salmon with the tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa on top for a fresh and flavorful meal. Pair it with a side of quinoa or a green salad for a complete and balanced dish.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the salmon adds a smoky flavor that complements the fresh salsa. Make sure to preheat your grill and oil the grates before cooking to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have capers, you can substitute them with chopped olives for a similar briny flavor. You can also use any type of bell pepper in place of the yellow bell pepper.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the salmon and prepare the salsa ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking. Just be sure to store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the grilled salmon on a platter with the salsa piled high on top for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra pop of flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This grilled salmon pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a grain salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this grilled salmon with tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa recipe contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. The salsa adds a burst of flavor without adding extra carbs.

Fats

Salmon is a great source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health. The olive oil in the marinade also adds healthy fats to the dish.

Proteins

Salmon is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. This dish provides a good amount of protein to help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Salmon is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. The tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa also provide a variety of vitamins and minerals to help support overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish (salmon) and may contain allergens such as shellfish (capers). Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, this grilled salmon with tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa recipe is a nutritious and delicious option for a summer meal. It is high in protein and healthy fats, while also providing a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Grilled salmon with tomato, cucumber, and caper salsa is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer meal. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Grilled Salmon with Tomato, Cucumber and Caper Salsa. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria at her beach house. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma of grilled salmon and fresh salsa.

Maria was busy at the stove, grilling the salmon to perfection. The fish sizzled and popped, filling the air with a mouthwatering smell that made my stomach growl. As I watched her work, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe.

Maria smiled and handed me a piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions written in her elegant handwriting. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was so grateful to have the opportunity to learn such a delicious and time-honored dish.

After that day, I made the Grilled Salmon with Tomato, Cucumber and Caper Salsa recipe countless times. It became a favorite in my household, loved by both family and friends. I even entered it into a cooking competition once, where it won first prize!

Over the years, I have made some changes and additions to the original recipe, adding my own special touch to make it truly my own. For example, I like to marinate the salmon in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before grilling it. This gives the fish a wonderful depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the bright and zesty salsa.

The salsa itself is a masterpiece of flavors and textures. The ripe tomatoes add a juicy sweetness, while the crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch. The capers add a salty kick that balances out the dish beautifully. When combined with the tender and flaky salmon, it creates a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate.

One day, I had the pleasure of passing the recipe on to my own granddaughter. I taught her how to grill the salmon just right, how to chop the vegetables for the salsa with precision, and how to mix everything together with love and care. She was a quick learner, and soon she was making the dish better than I ever could.

As I watched her cook, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in my chest. It was a beautiful moment, seeing my granddaughter carry on the tradition of this beloved recipe. I knew that it would continue to be passed down through the generations, bringing joy and delight to all who tasted it.

In the end, that is what cooking is all about - sharing love and memories through food. The Grilled Salmon with Tomato, Cucumber and Caper Salsa recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, as it represents the bond between family, friends, and the joy of a delicious meal shared together. And for that, I am forever grateful.