If you're looking to elevate your dinner game, look no further than this tantalizing recipe for Grilled Salmon Fillets with Granny Smith Vinaigrette! Imagine perfectly seared salmon, its rich, buttery flavor complemented by a zesty, refreshing vinaigrette made from crisp Granny Smith apples. This dish not only delights the palate but also brings a burst of color to your plate, making it a feast for the eyes as well. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe promises to impress. Ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing? Let’s get grilling!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 Granny Smith apple, diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Remove salmon fillets from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crisp exterior.
- Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F), ensuring grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- While grill heats, prepare the Granny Smith vinaigrette by whisking together diced apple, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down on the hot grill, cooking for approximately 4-5 minutes without moving to create a nice sear and crisp skin.
- Carefully flip salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove salmon from grill and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate the grilled salmon and generously spoon the Granny Smith vinaigrette over the top.
- Garnish with fresh chopped dill and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Room Temperature Salmon: For optimal cooking, remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling. This allows them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking throughout.
- Pat Dry for Perfection: Before seasoning, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve a beautiful sear and a crisp exterior, enhancing the overall texture of your dish.
- Generous Seasoning: Don't skimp on the salt and pepper! Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously to enhance their natural flavors.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F) and that the grates are clean and lightly oiled. This prevents sticking and ensures those gorgeous grill marks!
- Vinaigrette Magic: While the grill heats up, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients. The combination of the tart Granny Smith apples and honey creates a delightful balance of flavors that perfectly complements the salmon.
- Sear and Flip: Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill and resist the urge to move it for 4-5 minutes. This allows for a nice sear. When flipping, use a spatula to carefully turn the fillets to maintain their shape.
- Check for Doneness: Cook the salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. This ensures it's perfectly cooked without being dry.
- Resting Time: After grilling, let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite succulent.
- Garnish for Flair: When plating, don’t forget to garnish with fresh dill. It adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that enhances the dish.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the grilled salmon warm, topped with the Granny Smith vinaigrette, for the best flavor experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg