Salmon cutlets are a versatile and delicious way to enjoy salmon. They’re typically made from salmon fillets that are cut into pieces and can be prepared in various ways—grilled, pan-seared, or baked. Here’s a basic recipe for pan-seared salmon cutlets:
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon cutlets (about 6 oz each, or you can cut fillets into smaller pieces)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or other cooking oil)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or other herbs like dill or rosemary)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat the salmon cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or your preferred herbs).
-
Heat the Oil:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Cook the Salmon:
- Add the salmon cutlets to the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a golden-brown crust. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cutlets.
-
Add Flavor:
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. You can also add lemon slices to the skillet to cook alongside the salmon, which will add a nice flavor.
-
Serve:
- Remove the salmon cutlets from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with the cooked lemon slices on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
- With Salad: Pair with a fresh salad or a quinoa salad for a light and healthy meal.
- With Sauce: A dill sauce, tartar sauce, or a simple yogurt-based sauce can complement the salmon beautifully.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you're cooking multiple cutlets, do it in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming rather than searing.
- Check for Doneness: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Enjoy your salmon cutlets—they’re quick to prepare and packed with flavor!
