Description
This elegant dish features perfectly grilled salmon fillets, showcasing a delicate flaky texture and a rich, savory flavor. Each fillet is beautifully complemented by a vibrant blackberry sauce, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tart notes. The sauce, studded with whole blackberries, adds a juicy burst of fruitiness. Served alongside are tender, crisp asparagus spears, providing a fresh, earthy counterpoint to the main components. The grilling method imparts a subtle smoky char to the salmon, enhancing its natural richness.
Ingredients
- * 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- * 1 tablespoon olive oil
- * 1/2 teaspoon salt
- * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- * 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries, divided
- * 2 tablespoons water
- * 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- * 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- * 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed
- * 1/2 tablespoon olive oil (for asparagus)
- * Pinch of salt and pepper (for asparagus)
Instructions
- Prepare the Blackberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup of blackberries, water, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and the remaining 1/4 cup of whole blackberries. Set aside.
- Prepare Asparagus: Toss the trimmed asparagus spears with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
- Grill Salmon: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Place salmon skin-side down (if applicable) on the hot grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Cook Asparagus: While the salmon cooks, grill the asparagus for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender-crisp and slightly charred.
- Serve: Plate the grilled salmon and asparagus. Spoon the warm blackberry sauce generously over the salmon. Serve immediately.
Notes
* For a smoother sauce, strain the cooked blackberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the whole berries.
* Ensure your grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent the salmon from sticking.
* Adjust the sugar in the blackberry sauce based on the sweetness of your berries and personal preference.
* Salmon is best cooked to medium-rare or medium for optimal moisture and flavor.
* If using frozen blackberries for the sauce, there’s no need to thaw them first.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 40g