Salmon with Pink Pepper, Lime, and Ginger

This delightful salmon dish is an exquisite combination of flavors and aromas that bring a touch of gourmet dining to your table. The richness of the salmon is beautifully complemented by the fresh tang of lime and the warmth of freshly grated ginger. The use of white and pink peppercorns adds an aromatic depth and gentle heat, making each bite exciting for the palate. Accompanied by warm, garlicky spinach, this dish is not only delicious but packed with nutrients. The simplicity of the recipe allows the freshness of each ingredient to shine through. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe promises a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced cooks. The preparation is straightforward, and the result is a harmonious blend of taste and texture. Serve it with a side of wild rice or a simple salad, and you have a meal that's sure to impress. Enjoy this fusion of flavors alongside your favorite glass of white wine or a light, crisp beer.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg salmon fillet
• 4 tbsp fresh cheese
• 20 g fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 200 g washed spinach, stems removed
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Chopped fresh chives

Spices

• Santa Maria white pepper (grinder)
• Santa Maria rock salt (grinder)
• 6 tsp Santa Maria pink peppercorns
• Santa Maria Tellicherry pepper (grinder)

Preparation Time

• Total time: 45 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the Salmon: Remove any bones from the salmon, then cut the fillet into four equal pieces.
3. Spread fresh cheese evenly over each salmon piece and place them in a baking dish.
4. Seasoning: Sprinkle the salmon pieces with rock salt and grind white pepper over them. Drizzle with lime juice and top with freshly grated ginger for an aromatic zing.
5. Crush the pink peppercorns with your fingers and sprinkle them over the salmon for a lovely sprinkle of color and flavor.
6. Cooking the Salmon: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and your personal preference for doneness.
7. Prepare the Spinach: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they turn lightly golden.
8. Add spinach to the pan and stir gently, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the leaves are wilted but still vibrant green.
9. Finish the Spinach: Remove the pan from heat and add lemon juice. Season with rock salt and grind Tellicherry pepper over the spinach, stirring to mix well.
10. Serve the Dish: Gently sprinkle fresh chives over the baked salmon fillets for a touch of color and freshness.
11. Arrange the warm spinach alongside the salmon and serve immediately for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
12. Labu apetīti! (Enjoy your meal!)

Tips

• Substitute fresh ginger with 1 tsp of ground ginger for convenience.
• If fresh lime is unavailable, bottled lime juice works as well.
• Pink peppercorns can be swapped with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier touch.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 40g
• Fats: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 8g

Variations

• For a citrusy twist, add orange zest to the salmon before baking.
• For a vegan option, replace salmon with tofu slices and skip the cheese.
• Swap fresh cheese with cream cheese for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of wild rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Best Places

• The River Café - Known for its seasonal Italian menus and river views. Location: Thames Wharf, Rainville Rd, London, UK.
• Le Bernardin - Elegant French restaurant serving seafood tasting menus. Location: 155 West 51st Street, New York, USA.
• Sushi Saito - Renowned sushi spot with elite quality seafood. Location: 1 Chome-9-15 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.
• Noma - Offers inventive Nordic cuisine with fresh ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 København, Denmark.
• Geranium - Known for visionary Scandinavian dishes with organic produce. Location: Per Henrik Lings Allé 4, 8, 2100 København, Denmark.
• Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia - Famed for innovative Italian fine dining. Location: Via Privata Raimondo Montecuccoli, 6, 20147 Milano, Italy.
• Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée - Features natural and authentic cuisine. Location: 25 Avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France.
• Zuma - Lively and contemporary, ideal for upscale Japanese dining. Location: Plaza Reina Maria Cristina, Barcelona, Spain.
• Dinner by Heston Blumenthal - Celebrates British gastronomy with a gourmet twist. Location: 66 Knightsbridge, London, UK.
• The French Laundry - Infamous for its American contemporary cuisine with French influences. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.