Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary salmon into an extraordinary Spanish-inspired delicacy! These smoked paprika salmon chunks are not just a meal, but a flavor explosion that promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple techniques, you'll create restaurant-quality seafood that's both impressive and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillets, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the salmon chunks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning adhesion and crispy exterior.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a uniform marinade coating for the salmon chunks.
- Add salmon chunks to the marinade and gently toss, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the smoked paprika mixture. Let marinate for 5-7 minutes at room temperature.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Ensure the pan is properly heated before adding salmon to achieve a nice golden sear.
- Carefully place marinated salmon chunks into the hot skillet, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding to allow proper browning.
- Cook salmon chunks for 3-4 minutes on the first side, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop. Avoid moving the chunks too much to create a nice caramelized exterior.
- Gently flip the salmon chunks using tongs or a spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until they are cooked through but still tender and moist.
- Remove salmon chunks from the skillet and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Tips
- Always start with high-quality, fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the salmon completely dry before marinating to ensure a crispy, golden exterior.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible for the most even and beautiful sear.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - this prevents steaming and ensures proper caramelization.
- Watch the cooking time carefully; salmon can quickly go from perfectly tender to overcooked.
- Let the salmon rest after cooking to retain its juiciness and redistribute the internal moisture.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 62mg
