Spicy Garlic Salmon Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Salmon with Mustard-Lime Paste

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 dried red chile pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard
• Sea salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 (6 ounce) fillets salmon

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a medium baking dish with aluminum foil and lightly grease the foil.

Step 2: Using a mortar and pestle, grind the garlic, chile pepper, and olive oil into a paste.

Step 3: Add the lime juice, mustard, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the paste. Mix until the mixture forms a thick consistency.

Step 4: Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish and coat them evenly with the mustard paste.

Step 5: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon easily flakes with a fork.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 345
• Total Fat: 23g (29% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (21% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 83mg (28% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 561mg (24% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 3g (1% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (2% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 30g (59% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 11mg (12% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 33mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 6mg (33% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 550mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

This spicy garlic salmon recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional salmon dishes, bringing together a blend of aromatic garlic, tangy lime juice, and the heat of dried chili. The resulting glaze enhances the rich flavor of the salmon, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.

History and Origin

The origins of spicy garlic salmon can be traced to the growing popularity of seafood dishes in various global cuisines. While fish has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, the use of spices and herbs such as garlic, chili, and mustard reflects the influence of Mediterranean and Latin American cooking traditions. This dish, however, does not have a single point of origin but is rather a modern fusion that blends the love for salmon with bold, spicy flavors. Its versatility makes it a popular choice in American kitchens where seafood is a favored option.

Regional Features

Spicy garlic salmon is especially popular in the United States, particularly along the coasts, where fresh seafood is abundant. However, the dish has gained international appeal, making its way into kitchens across Europe and Latin America. The addition of ingredients like lime and chili gives it a distinctly fresh, vibrant flavor profile often associated with Latin American and Mediterranean cuisine. The use of whole-grain mustard as a binder for the garlic and chili paste reflects the growing popularity of mustard-based sauces in American cooking.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While salmon is often prepared with a variety of seasoning combinations, what sets this recipe apart is its unique combination of garlic, lime, and chili. Many traditional salmon recipes, such as those from Scandinavian or British cuisines, tend to favor milder, more subtle seasonings like dill, butter, or lemon. In contrast, spicy garlic salmon packs a punch with bold, zesty flavors. The use of a whole-grain mustard paste, which adds both a slight tang and texture, is another key differentiator. Additionally, the dish typically doesnt require marinating, making it much quicker and easier to prepare than other salmon dishes that require longer prep times.

Where It's Typically Served

Spicy garlic salmon is typically served in home kitchens and casual restaurants that focus on healthy, flavorful meals. It is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. The dish is often paired with simple sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a wholesome, balanced meal. Its popularity has also seen it appear in bistros and seafood restaurants that emphasize quick and flavorful dishes. Given its ease of preparation, it is commonly found in kitchens across the United States, especially in areas where salmon is a local specialty.

Interesting Facts

• Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
• The use of garlic in cooking dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was valued both as a culinary ingredient and a medicinal herb.
• Chili peppers, a key component in this recipe, were introduced to the Old World from the Americas after the Columbian Exchange and have since become essential in many global cuisines.
• Whole-grain mustard, used in the paste for this recipe, has been a part of European cuisine for centuries and was especially popular in ancient Rome.
• The quick baking time (12-15 minutes) makes this dish one of the faster ways to prepare salmon, retaining its moistness while achieving a crispy outer layer from the mustard paste.

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