Salmon With Cilantro Salsa
Salmon with fresh cilantro and zesty lime salsa offers a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for light, healthy dinners or entertaining guests with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lay the salmon fillets, skin side down, in a 9 x 13-inch baking pan. Evenly drizzle 2 tablespoons of lime juice over the fillets.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining lime juice, green onions, chopped jalapenos, cilantro, and olive oil to make the cilantro salsa.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the cilantro salsa over one fillet.
- Place the other fillet, skin side up, atop the first fillet, fitting together neatly.
- If made ahead, cover the salmon and chill up to overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the salmon marinate in the lime juice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a milder salsa, reduce the number of jalapenos or remove the seeds. Fresh cilantro is key; if unavailable, parsley can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ. This dish is also fantastic served cold, making it great for a picnic or as part of Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Pasta With Salmon And Dill for a more substantial dinner. For a refreshing contrast, consider a chilled cucumber salad or a quinoa pilaf. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, showcasing the bright flavors of the cilantro salsa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the fish. Enjoy the cilantro salsa within a week for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon With Cilantro Salsa contains roughly 971 calories, with 11g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 96g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (139% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 621mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption. If using previously frozen fish, consume it within a day or two for the best quality.
What can I substitute for lime juice if I don't have any?
If you don't have lime juice, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice for a similar acidity. Alternatively, a vinegar-based dressing can work in the salsa but will alter the flavor slightly.
How spicy is this dish with the jalapenos?
The heat level depends on the type of jalapenos used and whether the seeds are included. For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. You can also reduce the number of jalapenos or use a milder pepper variety if you're sensitive to spice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).