Seared Salmon with Garlicky Zucchini Noodles

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you in the mood for a healthy and delicious meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare?

Jump to recipePin it
Seared Salmon with Garlicky Zucchini Noodles
Prep
5 min
Total
25 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Season the salmon with 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper, then set it aside.

  2. Trim one end of each zucchini and use a spiralizer to create noodles. If the noodles are too long, cut them to approximately 7 inches.

  3. Place the zucchini noodles in a colander and season them with 1 tablespoon of salt. Gently mix to ensure all the noodles are well seasoned. Let the noodles drain over a dish.

  4. Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil until it's very hot and almost smoking.

  5. Sear the salmon on each side for 4 minutes, then transfer it to a plate and let it rest.

  6. Meanwhile, drain the zucchini noodles and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess water.

  7. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add lemon slices and quickly sauté them to deglaze the pan.

  8. Add garlic, chili, and the zucchini noodles to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes until the garlic is cooked and the noodles are al dente.

  9. Serve the salmon on a bed of noodles and garnish with parsley, flaky salt, and a pinch of lemon zest.

About this recipe

Are you in the mood for a healthy and delicious meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare? Look no further than seared salmon with garlicky zucchini noodles! This dish combines the succulent flavors of fresh salmon with the light and refreshing taste of zucchini noodles. It's a perfect option for those who are watching their carb intake or simply looking to incorporate more veggies into their diet. Let's dive into the details and learn how to make this delightful dish!

Preparing the Salmon

To start off, you'll need a high-quality piece of salmon. Whether you prefer wild-caught or farm-raised, make sure it is fresh and firm to the touch. Season the salmon with a pinch of salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the fish. Heat up a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil and sear the salmon on both sides until it develops a golden crust. The result? A perfectly cooked piece of salmon with a crispy exterior and tender, flaky flesh.

Creating the Garlicky Zucchini Noodles

While the salmon is searing, let's move on to the star of the dish - garlicky zucchini noodles. To make these noodles, you'll need a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler. Simply spiralize or peel the zucchini into thin, noodle-like strips. In a separate pan, heat some olive oil and minced garlic. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté them until they are tender yet still slightly crunchy. The garlic-infused oil will coat the noodles, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.

Bringing It All Together

Once the salmon and zucchini noodles are cooked, it's time to plate this fantastic dish. Arrange a generous portion of zucchini noodles on a plate and place a seared salmon fillet on top. Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. The tanginess of the lemon complements the rich flavors of the salmon, while the parsley adds a touch of freshness. You're now ready to savor this delightful meal!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?

Of course! While salmon is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other types of fish, such as trout or cod. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the fish is cooked through.

. Can I use a different vegetable instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of zucchini, you can substitute it with other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. The key is to choose a vegetable that can be spiralized or peeled into noodle-like shapes.

. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy the salmon and zucchini noodles fresh, you can prepare some elements in advance. You can season the salmon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to sear it. The zucchini noodles can also be prepped a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

. Can I add other seasonings to the salmon?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can add herbs like dill or thyme to enhance the flavor of the salmon even further. Just remember not to overpower the natural taste of the fish.

. Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, it is! This dish is naturally gluten-free, so it's a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

. How can I make the zucchini noodles less watery?

If you find that the zucchini noodles release too much water during cooking, you can sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for a few minutes. Then, gently squeeze out any excess moisture before sautéing them.

. Can I add some additional vegetables to the dish?

Certainly! You can amp up the nutritional value of this meal by adding other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them along with the zucchini noodles for a flavorful and colorful twist.

. How long does it take to make this dish?

The cooking time for this dish is relatively quick. It takes about 10-15 minutes to sear the salmon and another 5-7 minutes to sauté the zucchini noodles. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table!

In conclusion, seared salmon with garlicky zucchini noodles is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the freshness of zucchini. It's a healthy and satisfying option that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. So why not give it a try and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More pasta & grains

See all →