Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce

Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce Recipe from Switzerland

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This recipe for Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner at home. The combination of tender shrimp, flaky salmon, and creamy cheese sauce is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

History

The origins of this recipe are not entirely clear, but it is likely inspired by classic French cuisine. The combination of seafood with a rich cheese sauce is a popular pairing in many cultures, and this dish puts a unique twist on that tradition.

Ingredients

1 (3 lb (1.36 kg)) side of salmon, skinned, pinbones removed, rinsed and patted dry
sea salt, to taste
ground pepper, to taste
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1.5 lb (680 g) peeled and deveined shrimp, rinsed and patted dry
1 cup low sodium, gluten-free chicken stock
1 lb (454 g) swiss cheese such as Emmenthaler, grated
1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Season the salmon with salt and pepper on both sides.
Rub the fish all over with a tablespoon of vegetable oil and place it in a baking dish.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper and toss them with the remaining oil.
After the salmon has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and scatter the shrimp over it.
Return to the oven and cook for another 10 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through and no longer translucent.
Meanwhile, prepare the sauce.
Bring the chicken stock to a simmer over medium heat in a medium-sized pan.
Whisk in the grated cheese, allowing it to melt into the stock and create a sauce.
Pour the sauce over the salmon and shrimp, sprinkle with chives, and serve immediately.

Variations

Add some diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use a different type of cheese, such as Gruyere or cheddar, for a different twist on the sauce.
Add some fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the dish for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pat the salmon and shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure a crispy exterior.

- Make sure not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough and dry.

- Use a high-quality Swiss cheese for the sauce to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. It can also be served with crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious cheese sauce.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to cook the seafood just until it is done, as overcooking can result in tough and dry fish. Be sure to keep an eye on the oven while baking to ensure that everything cooks evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Swiss cheese on hand, you can use any other type of melty cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone. You can also use any type of seafood you like in place of the shrimp, such as scallops or crab.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. The seafood can also be seasoned and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish on a large platter with the sauce drizzled over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest over the top for a burst of citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. You can also serve it with a light and refreshing beer, such as a pilsner or wheat beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 450 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Fats

The salmon and shrimp in this dish are rich in healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health.

Proteins

Both salmon and shrimp are excellent sources of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Salmon is a good source of vitamins B12 and D, as well as minerals like selenium and potassium. Shrimp is high in vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains seafood and dairy, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to shellfish or lactose intolerance.

Summary

Overall, this dish is a good source of protein and healthy fats, with a moderate amount of calories. It is a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner at home. With a creamy cheese sauce, tender seafood, and a burst of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to the farmers market with a bag full of fresh seafood. As I unpacked my purchases, I noticed a handwritten note tucked inside a bundle of salmon fillets. Curious, I unfolded the note and read the elegant script that detailed a recipe for a decadent seafood dish.

The note was signed by a mysterious "M." and included a list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions for preparing the dish. Intrigued by the combination of shrimp, salmon, and Swiss cheese, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients and getting to work in the kitchen.

As I followed the instructions, a sense of anticipation grew within me. The aroma of the sizzling seafood filled the air, mingling with the rich scent of melted cheese. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish and see if it lived up to the promise of the tantalizing recipe.

When the Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce was finally ready, I carefully plated the dish and took a hesitant bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect balance of savory seafood and creamy cheese. I was instantly hooked, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe.

As I reflect on the origins of this dish, I realize that it represents much more than just a delicious meal. It serves as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to the people and places that have shaped us. Each time I prepare Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce, I am reminded of the farmer's market where I first found the recipe, of the mysterious "M." who shared it with me, and of the countless meals I have enjoyed with family and friends.

In a way, this dish has become a part of my family's story, passed down through generations as a cherished recipe that brings us together around the dinner table. I can only hope that one day, my own grandchildren will discover this recipe and carry on the tradition of preparing it with love and care.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Shrimp and Salmon with Swiss Cheese Sauce, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and connections that this dish has brought into my life. It is a reminder of the joy of cooking, the pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones, and the power of food to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls as well. And for that, I am truly thankful.