Description
Perfectly pan-seared salmon topped with a crunchy pistachio and fresh herb mixture. This elegant yet easy dinner combines tender salmon with bright lemon, parsley, and nutty pistachios for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets, about 150 g each
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Pistachio Herb Topping
- ½ cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the flavor and help achieve a crispy skin.
- Prepare the Pistachio Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped pistachios, fresh parsley, dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a flavorful topping.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking, ideal for searing the salmon.
- Cook the Salmon Skin-Side Down: Add the salmon fillets to the skillet skin-side down. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them to allow the skin to become crispy and the salmon to cook evenly.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip each salmon fillet and cook for an additional 2 to 4 minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness, ensuring a moist and tender interior.
- Add the Pistachio Herb Topping: Remove the skillet from heat and spoon the pistachio-herb mixture generously over each salmon fillet. The warm salmon will slightly soften the topping, melding flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the salmon fillets and serve immediately with lemon wedges for extra brightness and your choice of vegetables such as roasted asparagus or a green salad.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook the salmon in batches if your pan is not large enough to fit all fillets comfortably.
- For even crispier skin, gently press the salmon against the pan with a spatula for the first minute of cooking skin-side down.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood, Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
