Zucchini Noodles with Salmon
Highlighted under: Fresh Season Kitchen
I absolutely love making zucchini noodles with salmon; it's a light yet satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The combination of fresh flavors from the zucchini and the rich taste of salmon creates a delightful balance that’s both healthy and indulgent. In just a few minutes, I can whip up this vibrant meal that showcases the best of what the season has to offer. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.
When I first experimented with zucchini noodles as a pasta alternative, I was surprised by how versatile they were. The trick is to avoid overcooking them, allowing them to retain some crunch which complements the tender salmon perfectly. I marinate the salmon in lemon juice and dill, which adds a lovely brightness that enhances the dish.
I've found that adding a splash of olive oil just before serving brings everything together beautifully. The final touch is a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, which adds a hint of heat without overpowering the other flavors. It's a dish that exemplifies simplicity yet showcases rich, rewarding flavors!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh, vibrant flavors of zucchini paired with rich salmon
- Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
- A nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes that satisfies
Mastering Zucchini Noodles
To achieve the best texture in your zucchini noodles, it’s crucial to spiralize them correctly. I recommend using a high-quality spiralizer which yields uniform noodles that cook evenly. If you don’t have a spiralizer, a julienne peeler works just as well, though it may take a bit more time. Aim for strands that are about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they maintain their crunch during cooking.
After spiralizing, consider placing your zucchini noodles in a colander and lightly salting them for about 10 minutes. This technique draws out excess moisture, preventing them from becoming soggy when sautéed. Pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking; this helps keep the textures crisp and vibrant while enhancing the flavors of your dish.
Perfectly Cooked Salmon
For perfectly cooked salmon, start with fillets that are about 1-inch thick. This thickness allows for even cooking, ensuring the center remains tender and moist. I like to use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan for ease in handling. Heat the oil until it shimmers before adding the salmon, creating a nice sear on the skin side. Cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side allows for a golden crust while maintaining a juicy interior.
Keep an eye on the salmon as it cooks; it should flake easily with a fork when it’s done. If the fillets resist shredding, they may need a minute more. If you prefer your salmon less flaky and more medium, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F. A meat thermometer can be handy here for precision.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious plate of zucchini noodles with salmon:
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
These ingredients come together for a fresh and delightful meal!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your zucchini noodles with salmon:
Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
Spiralize the zucchinis using a spiralizer or julienne peeler until they resemble noodles. Set them aside.
Cook the Salmon
In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and dill. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it flakes easily with a fork.
Sauté the Zucchini Noodles
In the same pan, add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook them.
Combine and Serve
Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into chunks and toss it gently with the zucchini noodles. Serve warm, topped with crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.
Enjoy your delicious zucchini noodles with salmon!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts before serving.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Zucchini Noodles with Salmon, consider garnishing with additional fresh dill or a sprinkle of crunchy toasted pine nuts for texture. A squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving brightens the dish and balances the salmon's richness. You can also serve it alongside a light green salad or crusty whole-grain bread to create a well-rounded meal.
If you're looking to add more vegetables, cherry tomatoes or spinach can be incorporated into the sauté stage. They add a pop of color and extra nutrients while enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. Just be sure to sauté them briefly so they don’t lose their vibrancy.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the zucchini noodles and salmon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps prevent the noodles from becoming mushy when reheating. When ready to enjoy, quickly warm them up in a non-stick pan over low heat just until heated through, about 2-3 minutes, and take care to not overcook the zucchini a second time.
Freezing isn’t recommended for zucchini noodles as they can become watery upon thawing. Instead, try freezing just the salmon if you have extra. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing it in an airtight container. To reheat, bake the salmon at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until it’s warmed throughout, and serve it immediately over freshly spiralized zucchini.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other fish like trout or even shrimp.
→ Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?
While the salmon can be cooked in advance, the zucchini noodles are best enjoyed fresh to keep their texture.
→ What should I serve with zucchini noodles?
This dish pairs well with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses zucchini instead of traditional pasta.
Zucchini Noodles with Salmon
I absolutely love making zucchini noodles with salmon; it's a light yet satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The combination of fresh flavors from the zucchini and the rich taste of salmon creates a delightful balance that’s both healthy and indulgent. In just a few minutes, I can whip up this vibrant meal that showcases the best of what the season has to offer. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for guests, this recipe guarantees smiles all around.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Fresh Season Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How-To Steps
Spiralize the zucchinis using a spiralizer or julienne peeler until they resemble noodles. Set them aside.
In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and dill. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it flakes easily with a fork.
In the same pan, add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook them.
Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into chunks and toss it gently with the zucchini noodles. Serve warm, topped with crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 32g