This dish is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. The perfectly seared salmon, with its crispy exterior and tender interior, pairs beautifully with the burst of sweet cherry tomatoes. The garlic and lemon juice bring a zesty freshness that elevates the entire dish.
It’s the kind of meal you can make on a busy weeknight, but it feels special enough to serve for guests. Plus, the one-pan approach makes cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this salmon dish will impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 salmon fillets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano on both sides.
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Once the pan is hot, sear the salmon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until the tomatoes start to burst and release their juices.
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Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Return the salmon to the pan, spoon some of the tomatoes and juices over the top, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Simplicity and Appeal of One-Pan Cooking
What makes this dish stand out is its simplicity. The appeal of a one-pan meal is that it minimizes the need for multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze. This salmon dish offers the perfect balance of flavors—rich, savory salmon paired with sweet and tangy tomatoes—without any extra hassle. The tomatoes, when cooked just right, become charred and release their natural sugars, forming a delightful sauce that complements the salmon perfectly. Best of all, you can prepare it all in one pan, which reduces both cooking time and cleanup.
By searing the salmon in the same pan used for the tomatoes, the ingredients meld together in a way that maximizes flavor while keeping things efficient. This technique ensures the salmon stays juicy and tender, and the tomatoes burst into a delicious sauce that elevates the dish.
The Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is widely regarded as one of the healthiest fish options due to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are well known for their benefits in supporting heart health and cognitive function. Salmon is also an excellent source of high-quality protein, as well as essential vitamins like B12 and minerals such as selenium. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially praised for their anti-inflammatory properties, which is why adding salmon to your diet can be a great choice for overall well-being.
In this recipe, the salmon is pan-seared to crispy perfection on the outside, while remaining moist and tender on the inside. This cooking method helps preserve the fish’s natural nutrients while enhancing its rich flavor. When paired with aromatic ingredients like garlic, shallots, and fresh thyme, it becomes a powerhouse of health and flavor in every bite.
The Burst Cherry Tomatoes: A Sweet, Savory Addition
Tomatoes are a staple in many dishes, but when they’re cooked until they burst, they undergo a beautiful transformation. As they sear, the natural sweetness of the tomatoes intensifies, and their acidity becomes balanced, resulting in a rich, savory sauce that pairs beautifully with the salmon. These burst tomatoes add a pop of color and flavor that brings the entire dish together.
Cherry tomatoes are the perfect choice for this recipe. Their small size allows them to cook quickly, and they release their juices to create a mouthwatering sauce in no time. Whether you opt for red, yellow, or a mix of both, the burst of flavor from these tomatoes creates a wonderful contrast with the rich, savory salmon. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also make the dish look visually appealing, adding a splash of color to your plate.
Customizing the Recipe: Versatility and Variations
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its versatility. While the combination of salmon and burst cherry tomatoes is a crowd-pleaser on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
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Add More Veggies: If you want to make the meal even heartier, you can add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or broccoli. These can be cooked alongside the salmon and tomatoes for a balanced, nutrient-packed dish.
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Switch the Protein: If you’re not a fan of salmon, feel free to swap it out for another fish like trout or even shrimp. The pan-searing method works great for other proteins, so you can easily adapt the recipe to your taste.
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Herb Variations: The recipe calls for fresh thyme, but you can experiment with other herbs. Fresh rosemary, dill, or basil can bring a new dimension of flavor to the dish.
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Serve with Rice or Salad: For a more filling meal, you can serve the salmon and tomatoes over a bed of rice, or pair it with a fresh salad. The light crunch of a simple salad contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the salmon and tomatoes.
The Joy of Cooking with Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients
One of the best things about this dish is that it showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients. Using tomatoes when they’re in season makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Seasonal tomatoes are sweeter, juicier, and more vibrant, giving the dish an elevated taste. If you have access to a local farmers’ market, picking up fresh tomatoes directly from the source will enhance the dish’s flavor even more.
Similarly, using sustainably sourced, fresh salmon ensures you’re getting the highest quality fish. There are plenty of options, whether you prefer wild-caught or farmed salmon. Choosing high-quality ingredients not only supports better health but also makes your meal taste better.
Timing Is Key: How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Salmon
A common challenge with cooking salmon is achieving the perfect doneness. Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough, which is why it’s essential to keep an eye on the cooking time. In this recipe, the salmon is seared on both sides to create a crispy exterior, while keeping the inside moist and tender. The tomatoes help to finish the dish without overcooking the salmon.
For optimal texture, the internal temperature of the salmon should be between 120-130°F. If you prefer your salmon more well-done, you can extend the cooking time slightly, but be careful not to overdo it. The key is to monitor the fish closely to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
Conclusion: A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
In conclusion, the One-Pan Seared Salmon with Burst Cherry Tomatoes is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. The one-pan approach makes it easy to prepare and clean up, while the combination of seared salmon and juicy tomatoes creates a deliciously balanced dish. The healthy omega-3s from the salmon, paired with the burst of sweetness from the tomatoes, make this meal both nutritious and satisfying.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and packed with flavor. So, next time you’re in the mood for something quick, healthy, and delicious, this salmon dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.