Fiery Tomato-Infused Salmon Fillets
This delectable dish features succulent salmon fillets simmered in a rich, spicy tomato garlic sauce, perfect for those who crave bold flavors. The combination of fresh ingredients like coarsely chopped tomatoes, vibrant red bell peppers, and aromatic garlic creates a luxurious sauce that not only complements the salmon but also tantalizes the taste buds. While I personally love this dish served over fluffy white rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce, it can also be toned down by serving it with boiled potatoes and a dollop of sour cream, making it suitable for those who prefer a milder experience. Indulge in this fiery meal that is packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
salmon fillet
1 lb (cut into 4 individual slices)
olive oil
2 teaspoons (for sautéing)
yellow onion
1 large (coarsely chopped)
garlic
1 head (crushed and chopped)
tomatoes
2 large (coarsely chopped)
red bell pepper
1 large (coarsely chopped)
canned diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce) can (drained or undrained as preferred)
fresh cilantro
1/2 bunch (chopped)
water
1/2 cup (for mixing)
lemon
1/2 (juice of)
paprika
1/3 cup (for seasoning)
hot paprika or cayenne
1/3 cup (for extra heat)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
salt
2 teaspoons (for seasoning)
ground pepper
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to broil.
2
In an ovenproof frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the coarsely chopped onion and crushed garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and tender, about 5 minutes.
3
Stir in the coarsely chopped red bell pepper, tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Continue cooking until the vegetables soften, around 5-7 minutes.
4
In a small mixing bowl, combine the canned diced tomatoes, paprika, hot paprika (or cayenne), ground cumin, salt, pepper, and water. Stir well to create a flavorful mixture.
5
Pour half of this tomato-spice mixture into the pan, cooking for an additional few minutes to meld the flavors.
6
Sprinkle a tablespoon of hot paprika or cayenne over each salmon fillet, rubbing it in gently to ensure the spice penetrates the fish.
7
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the fillets are cooked through halfway.
8
Spoon the remaining tomato-spice mixture over the salmon, covering it nearly completely in the sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.
9
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon, then cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
10
Remove the lid and transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Broil for approximately 7 minutes or until the salmon is nicely browned and slightly caramelized on top.
11
Serve hot over white rice or with boiled potatoes and sour cream on the side. Don't forget to keep a cup of ice water nearby for those who enjoy the spiciness!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of this salmon dish?
The dish features a bold, fiery, and rich tomato-garlic sauce that is both savory and spicy.
What cut of salmon is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of salmon fillet cut into 4 individual slices.
How much garlic is required for this recipe?
One full head of garlic, crushed and chopped, is used to provide an aromatic base.
Is this recipe considered very spicy?
Yes, it includes 1/3 cup of hot paprika or cayenne, making it quite fiery.
What kind of onion should I use?
One large yellow onion, coarsely chopped, is recommended.
What vegetables are in the sauce?
The sauce includes red bell pepper, fresh tomatoes, and canned diced tomatoes.
How do I prepare the spice rub for the salmon?
Sprinkle a tablespoon of hot paprika or cayenne over each fillet and rub it in gently before cooking.
Do I need an oven for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe requires an oven set to broil for the final caramelization step.
What type of frying pan should I use?
An ovenproof frying pan is necessary since the dish moves from the stovetop to the broiler.
How long should I sauté the onion and garlic?
Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and tender.
When do I add the fresh cilantro?
Add the chopped cilantro along with the red bell pepper and fresh tomatoes.
Should I drain the canned diced tomatoes?
You can use them drained or undrained based on your preference for sauce consistency.
What spices are in the tomato mixture?
The mixture contains paprika, hot paprika or cayenne, ground cumin, salt, and ground pepper.
How much water is added to the sauce?
1/2 cup of water is mixed into the tomato-spice blend.
Do I cook the salmon skin-side up or down?
The salmon fillets should be placed in the pan skin-side down.
How long does the salmon cook before the sauce is added?
Cook the salmon for about 10 minutes until it is halfway cooked before spooning the remaining sauce over it.
What is the purpose of adding lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is squeezed over the salmon to enhance and brighten the flavors.
How long do I broil the salmon?
Broil for approximately 7 minutes until the salmon is nicely browned and slightly caramelized.
What are the best side dishes for this meal?
It is delicious served over white rice or with boiled potatoes and a dollop of sour cream.
How can I make the dish milder?
You can serve it with sour cream to temper the heat or reduce the amount of hot paprika used.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 1 lb of salmon cut into 4 slices, typically serving 2 to 4 people.
What is the total amount of paprika used?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of regular paprika and 1/3 cup of hot paprika or cayenne.
Can I substitute the red bell pepper?
While red is preferred for its sweetness, you can use other bell peppers if necessary.
When do I cover the pan with a lid?
Cover the pan for 5 minutes after adding the lemon juice to help the flavors meld before broiling.
Is there cumin in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin is included in the tomato-spice mixture.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
What oil is best for sautéing?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 teaspoons of olive oil.
Should the tomatoes be finely or coarsely chopped?
Both the fresh tomatoes and the red bell pepper should be coarsely chopped.
Can I use fresh parsley instead of cilantro?
The recipe calls for cilantro, but parsley can be used as a substitute if you dislike cilantro.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is packed with nutrients from the salmon, garlic, and fresh vegetables.