California Style Citrusy Salmon

Larry and I love seafood of all kinds, but as with anything there are some types of fish we like more than others. Salmon is not one our favorite types of fish, though we do like it and we do eat it, just not as frequently as we enjoy other kinds of fish. That being said, I had some salmon in the freezer that we took down and put into our weekly rotation. Salmon is a cold water fish that is found all throughout the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. They are two totally different species of salmon, each with their own unique and specific qualities and tastes. I had a big piece of salmon that I cooked whole in a simple citrus rub/sauce.

Salmon is great grilled, pan seared, air fried or baked in some olive oil and seasoned with just salt and pepper.  I had some citrus seasoning that I generously sprinkled on top, with some fresh ground black pepper and some cara cara orange olive oil. That was it. Simple and easy-peasy.

I let it set for about 1-2 hours before roasting it in the oven at 425*F or 219*C for about 15 minutes.

While the salmon was cooking, I made a spinach, shallot, garlic and tomato topping for it.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic, Shallots and Tomatoes

2-3 cup fresh baby spinach, stems removed

1 shallot, diced fine

1 TBSP garlic

1/2 cup tiny drop tomatoes, or chopped tomatoes

olive oil and/or cara cara orange olive oil

salt & pepper to taste

feta cheese, optional

Saute the spinach, garlic and shallots in the oil, in a very hot skillet for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shallots are translucent and the spinach is wilted.

When the salmon and spinach are cooked, slice the salmon into serving portions, and top with the spinach topping. Toss a few of the tiny drop tomatoes on top and then if you like, add a little feta cheese on top as well. I served it over wild rice with some warmed ciabatta and a cool, crisp white wine on the side. Delicious!

As I have said many times, and in the words of the late great Chef Anthony Bourdain, “Good food is very often, even most often, simple food. … Just make sure they’re good ingredients, fresh ingredients, and then garnish them. How hard is that?” (p. 83). Kitchen Confidential

Have a great day and make everyday great. Stay safe and stay well. ‘Til next time.