Seared Salmon With Balsamic-Blistered Tomatoes Recipe
Salmon is one of the best sources of eye-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which has been shown to reduce the risk of ARMD (Age-Related Macular degeneration) and help to treat DES (Dry Eye Syndrome). An Ophthalmology study reported that high dietary intakes of omega-3 fatty acids resulted in 38% reduction in the risk for ARMD. Salmon is also a natural source of vitamin D, which may also prove to have eye health benefits.
Fresh tomatoes and balsamic vinegar mirror amplify each other; both are a bit tangy and sweet, and both benefit from a little high heat in the pan. Shallots mellow as they sauté and provide a backbone for the sauce. Moving the salmon to a sheet pan allows you to build the sauce in the skillet while the fish finishes in the oven. When it’s done, simply throw the foil away. Serve with a simple green salad dressed with a mild vinaigrette or creamy dressing as there’s plenty of tang in the sauce.
Ingredients
-1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 4 (6-oz.) salmon fillets about 1 in. thick
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
-1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper divided
-2/3 cup thinly sliced shallots 3 cups cherry tomatoes
-1/2 cup torn basil leaves, divided
-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
How to Make It
Step 1
Preheat oven to 500°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
Step 2
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large cast-iron skillet over high. Sprinkle fillets evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add fillets to pan; cook 4 minutes on one side or until golden brown. Place fillets, seared side up, on prepared baking sheet; bake at 500°F for 4 minutes or until desired degree of doneness.
Step 3
Return skillet to medium-high. Add remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil to pan. Add shallots, and sauté 2 minutes. Add remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, remaining 1/2 teaspoon pepper, tomatoes, and 1/3 cup basil; cook 2 minutes or until tomatoes begin to break down. Stir in vinegar, and cook 1 minute.
Step 4
Place 1 fillet on each of 4 plates; top evenly with tomato mixture and remaining basil.
Try out this recipe at home, it’s easy and healthy. It does not just benefit the eye but also your general heath. Eat clean to optimize your health!