Imagine a dish that combines the luxurious richness of perfectly seared salmon with the vibrant colors and flavors of a classic Nicoise-style preparation. This isn't just another salmon recipe - it's a culinary journey that elevates your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients and bursting with French-inspired elegance, this Salmon Asparagus Sweet Potato Nicoise will make you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 cup olives
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and cube sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender, stirring halfway through.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Prepare an ice bath in a separate bowl.
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer to ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, gently lower eggs and cook for 7-8 minutes for medium-boiled eggs. Transfer to ice bath, then peel and quarter.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked to desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest.
- In the same skillet, quickly sauté asparagus for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
- Arrange roasted sweet potatoes, blanched green beans, quartered eggs, olives, asparagus, and salmon on serving plates.
- Optional: Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: For the perfect salmon, ensure your skillet is hot but not smoking. This creates a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside moist.
- Don't Overcook Vegetables: The secret to vibrant, crisp vegetables is quick cooking. Blanch green beans just until bright green and sauté asparagus briefly to maintain their texture and color.
- Egg Precision: For medium-boiled eggs with a slightly runny yolk, time your cooking exactly - 7-8 minutes is the sweet spot.
- Sweet Potato Roasting Hack: Spread cubes evenly and give them space on the baking sheet. This ensures they roast, not steam, creating deliciously crispy edges.
- Resting Matters: Let your salmon rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
