Salmon over tomato sauce

Recipe: Salmon in Tomato Sauce with Basil

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Let's make a delicious and healthy dish together that will impress anyone you serve it to. Salmon in tomato sauce with basil is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Moreover, it's a dish that brings together fresh, flavorful ingredients and is rich in nutrients. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while tomatoes provide antioxidants and vitamins.

The history of salmon in tomato sauce is full of flavor. Over time, fish has been a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures, and the combination with tomatoes reflects Mediterranean influences, where fresh fish is often cooked with rich and aromatic sauces.

Ingredients:
- 6 cleaned salmon fillets (approximately 150-200g each)
- 1 kg of fresh tomatoes, diced (or a 850g can of diced tomatoes)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- Fresh basil leaves (approximately 10 leaves)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the salmon: Start by washing the salmon fillets well. It is important to choose fresh, high-quality salmon for excellent flavor. If possible, opt for wild salmon, which has a more intense taste and is healthier.

2. Heating the pan: In a non-stick skillet, add one tablespoon of butter and 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil. The olive oil prevents the butter from burning, which has a lower smoke point. Wait until it's nicely heated, until the butter melts completely and starts to bubble.

3. Cooking the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin side down. This will prevent the fish from sticking to the pan. Cook them for 2-3 minutes until they become golden and crispy on the skin side. It's the perfect moment to add a pinch of salt and pepper on each fillet, as well as a basil leaf for extra flavor.

4. Transferring to the baking dish: Once the salmon is cooked on one side, carefully transfer it to a Pyrex dish. It's important not to overcook it in the pan, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

5. Preparing the tomato sauce: In the same skillet, add the crushed garlic and sauté for one minute until it becomes golden. Then, add the diced tomatoes. If using canned tomatoes, ensure they are of good quality. Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finishing the dish: Pour the tomato sauce over the salmon in the Pyrex dish. Add a few fresh basil leaves on top and place everything in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 8-10 minutes. This step will allow the fish to absorb the flavors of the sauce, making the meat juicy and delicious.

7. Serving: The salmon can be served immediately or warm, alongside fresh bread or a baguette. This combination is perfect for savoring the tomato sauce. You can garnish with a few basil leaves for a more attractive appearance.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the pan is well heated before adding the salmon to achieve a crispy crust.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add some chopped chili or chili flakes to the tomato sauce.
- Check the salmon's temperature with a cooking thermometer; it should reach 63-65 degrees Celsius to be considered cooked.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout or tuna fillets, but the cooking time may vary.
- What other side dishes pair well? Rice or quinoa are excellent, and a simple green salad can perfectly complement the meal.
- How can I store leftovers? Remaining salmon can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the tomato sauce can be frozen for later use.

Nutritional benefits:
Salmon is an important source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radicals. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, averaging 350-400 calories per serving.

Possible variations:
- Add green or black olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Replace basil with other herbs like oregano or parsley to change the flavor profile.
- You can experiment with vegetables by adding zucchini or eggplant to the tomato sauce.

I invite you to try this recipe for salmon in tomato sauce with basil, a simple and delicious combination that will bring a touch of joy to every meal. Enjoy cooking and the moments spent with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 6 slices of cleaned and washed salmon. 1 kg of diced tomatoes or a 850 g can of diced tomatoes. 3-4 cloves of garlic, basil leaves, olive oil, a little butter for the tray or a pyrex dish that can go in the oven.