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 make it:

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150-200 g each)
• 100 g sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon 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. Meanwhile, marinate the salmon fillets in soy sauce for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Spread the sesame seeds on a flat plate.
4. Remove the salmon fillets from the marinade and season lightly with salt and pepper. Then coat them in the sesame seeds, pressing well to adhere on both sides.
5. Heat the sesame or olive oil in a non-stick pan and sear the salmon fillets 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 desired doneness. If you prefer the salmon rarer, reduce the cooking time.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges to taste.

An Italian twist could be to replace the soy sauce with a balsamic vinegar reduction, for an intriguing sweet-tangy 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 Mediterranean flavor.

Trivia

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