Sesame-Crusted Salmon

Preparing sesame-crusted salmon is a simple yet impressive recipe that blends the delicate flavors of the fish with the toasted taste of sesame. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

• 4 salmon cutlets (about 150-200 g each)
• 100 g of sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil or extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200 °C (static mode).
2. In the meantime, marinate the salmon cutlets in soy sauce for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Spread the sesame seeds on a flat plate.
4. Take the salmon cutlets out of the marinade and lightly sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Then roll them in the sesame seeds, making sure they stick well on both sides.
5. Heat the sesame or olive oil in a non-stick skillet and sauté the salmon cutlets for about 1-2 minutes per side until the sesame crust turns golden.
6. Transfer the salmon to a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and the desired doneness. If you prefer the salmon more rare, reduce the cooking time.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges as desired.

The Italian touch might be to replace the soy sauce with a balsamic vinegar reduction, for a very intriguing sweet and sour contrast. Alternatively, you could serve the salmon with a dressing made of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley, for a fresh and Mediterranean flavor.

Curiosity

Sesame seeds not only add flavor and texture but are also rich in nutrients such as calcium, iron, and fiber. They are a common element in many Asian cuisines but have also been incorporated into the Mediterranean diet for their versatility and benefits.