Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure - this Spice Roasted New Zealand Salmon with Mango Salsa is exactly that magical creation! Prepare to tantalize your senses with a perfect harmony of zesty spices, succulent salmon, and a bright, fresh mango salsa that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every single bite. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or just looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone craving more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: New Zealand
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 New Zealand salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the salmon, ensuring it cooks evenly and develops a delicious crust.
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This spice mix will add depth and flavor to the salmon.
- Pat the New Zealand salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the spices adhere better and promote even cooking.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. This will help the spices stick and keep the fish moist during roasting.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, making sure to cover both sides. Use your hands to gently rub the spices into the fish for maximum flavor.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. Make sure to leave some space between each fillet for even cooking.
- Roast the salmon in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- While the salmon is roasting, prepare the mango salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped fresh cilantro.
- Gently toss the ingredients together until well mixed. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lime juice if desired.
- Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
- To serve, place a salmon fillet on each plate and top generously with the fresh mango salsa. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy your Spice Roasted New Zealand Salmon with Mango Salsa alongside your favorite side dishes, such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, high-quality New Zealand salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect spice crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature - 145°F is the sweet spot for perfectly cooked salmon.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each fillet space to roast evenly.
- Let the salmon rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to retain its moisture and juiciness.
- For extra flavor, toast your spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds before mixing them.
- If you prefer less heat, remove the jalapeño seeds carefully or use less to control the spice level.
- The mango salsa can be prepared up to 2 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately after topping with salsa to maintain the fresh, vibrant taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
