Stepping into the kitchen, I was greeted by the vibrant colors of fresh peas and the unmistakable aroma of sizzling salmon. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on a classic dish—Pan-Seared Salmon with Silky Pea Purée and Fresh Herb Dressing. This recipe not only elevates any weeknight dinner with its gourmet flair but also promises a quick prep time that busy home chefs will appreciate. The combination of perfectly cooked salmon, creamy pea purée, and zesty dressing creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a nutrient-packed option that feels indulgent without the guilt. Are you ready to impress your loved ones at the dinner table? Let’s dive into this delicious journey!

What makes salmon with pea purée special?

Deliciously Healthy: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this dish not only tastes divine but also promotes heart health.

Quick to Prepare: Ideal for busy weeknights, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes—perfect for those craving home-cooked meals without the fuss.

Bright, Fresh Flavors: The creamy pea purée combined with zesty herb dressing elevates the salmon, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

Versatile Options: Want a twist? Swap salmon for cod or brighten your plate with variations in herbs or spices. Looking for more delicious seafood? Try these Cucumber Smoked Salmon bites for a refreshing appetizer.

Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: Serve this dish to impress your friends and family; the vibrant colors and elegant plating make for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering.

Salmon with Silky Pea Purée Ingredients

• Get ready to delight your taste buds with these fresh components!

For the Salmon

Salmon Fillets – The main protein source, rich in omega-3 fatty acids; fresh or frozen works beautifully.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavors in the salmon, ensuring each bite is savory and satisfying.
Olive Oil – For cooking the salmon, lending a rich flavor; you can substitute with another cooking oil if preferred.

For the Pea Purée

Peas (Frozen) – The star of the purée, delivering sweetness and vibrant color; fresh peas can replace them if in season.
Butter – Adds luxurious richness to the purée; opt for non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version.
Garlic – Infuses aromatic depth; adjust the amount to match your personal taste.
Water – Necessary for cooking the peas to soft perfection.
Crème Fraîche or Mascarpone – Provides creaminess to the purée; Greek yogurt is a wonderful lighter alternative.

For the Dressing

Olive Oil (for dressing) – Forms the base of your herb dressing, but feel free to switch it up with avocado oil.
Fresh Orange Juice – Brightness and acidity; lemon juice is an excellent substitute.
Sherry Vinegar – Adds complexity; white wine vinegar can stand in if needed.
Whole Grain Mustard – Contributes tanginess; Dijon mustard works just as well for a similar flavor.
Fresh Herb Leaves – Essential for vibrant flavor; mix and match with dill, chervil, mint, chives, basil, or parsley for an aromatic touch.

This delightful combination of ingredients will make your Salmon with Silky Pea Purée come together harmoniously, elevating your dining experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salmon with Silky Pea Purée

Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a jar, combine 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon of sherry vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of whole grain mustard. Add 1 crushed garlic clove and a pinch of sea salt. Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until the mixture is emulsified and creamy. Set aside this zesty dressing while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare Pea Purée
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add 1 crushed garlic clove and sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in 2 cups of frozen peas along with 1/4 cup of water and a pinch of sea salt. Cover the saucepan and simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until the peas are tender and vibrant green.

Step 3: Blend the Purée
Remove the saucepan from heat and transfer the cooked peas to a blender. Add 1/4 cup of crème fraîche or mascarpone to the peas for creaminess. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and silky, adjusting the consistency by adding a bit more water if needed. Keep the pea purée warm until ready to serve.

Step 4: Cook Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides generously with sea salt. In a large sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then flip and reduce heat to medium. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flaky.

Step 5: Serve
To plate your Salmon with Silky Pea Purée, spoon a generous portion of the bright green pea purée onto each plate, creating a lovely base. Top with the perfectly seared salmon fillet and drizzle the fresh herb dressing generously over the top. Finish by sprinkling your choice of fresh herbs for an aromatic touch, and enjoy your delightful meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Salmon with Silky Pea Purée are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the pea purée and dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the purée and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this helps maintain its vibrant color and creamy texture. Similarly, you can whisk together the dressing and keep it refrigerated until serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the pea purée gently over low heat while pan-searing the salmon fillets fresh. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and maximum delight!

Salmon with Silky Pea Purée Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make this dish uniquely yours!

Alternative Fish: Swap salmon for cod or another firm white fish for a lighter flavor that still maintains tenderness.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of crème fraîche for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that complements the peas beautifully.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the herb dressing for a delightful kick that pairs well with the richness of the salmon.
Fresh Herb Variations: Experiment with different herb combinations like dill and mint or chervil and basil to find the perfect flavor balance.
Add a Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or almonds on top for a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the creamy purée.
Zesty Citrus Flair: Replace fresh orange juice with lime juice for a tangy twist that brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zing.
Throw in Veggies: Stir in sautéed asparagus or spinach into the pea purée for added nutrition, vibrant color, and a heartier texture.
Elevate the Dressing: Swap sherry vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy touch that will enhance the overall flavor profile.

For a twist of flavors that everyone will love, consider serving this dish with a side of Spring Rolls Sauce or enjoy a delightful dessert like Banana Bread with Pecans to finish the meal!

What to Serve with Salmon with Silky Pea Purée

Imagine a table filled with colorful, complementary dishes that elevate the exquisite flavors of your salmon dish and create a memorable dining experience.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden and crunchy, these spuds add perfect texture to contrast the silky purée while soaking up any extra dressing.
Light Arugula Salad: With nutty notes and a peppery bite, a fresh arugula salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the salmon.
Zesty Lemon Quinoa: Fluffy and flavorful, lemon-infused quinoa creates a nutritious base, pairing beautifully with the lightness of the herb dressing.
Grilled Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that enhances the overall gourmet presentation of your meal.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc works wonders here, cutting through the dish’s richness while highlighting the fresh citrus elements.
Decadent Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a satisfying end without overwhelming the palate.

Expert Tips for Salmon with Silky Pea Purée

Room Temperature Salmon: Ensure your salmon fillets are at room temperature before cooking to achieve even cooking and a perfect crust.

Mind the Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking your salmon. It should be slightly pink in the center for an ideal moist and flaky texture, especially vital for your salmon with silky pea purée.

Adjusting Purée Consistency: If your pea purée is too thick, add more water gradually until you reach your desired silky texture.

Herb Variations: Feel free to mix up your herb choices for the dressing! Fresh dill, mint, or basil can provide different flavor profiles and brighten up the dish.

Double the Dressing: If you love flavors, consider making extra dressing to serve on the side. It works wonderfully as a dip for leftover salmon or vegetables!

How to Store and Freeze Salmon with Silky Pea Purée

Fridge: Store leftover salmon and pea purée in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain the salmon’s moisture and the purée’s creaminess.

Freezer: If freezing, wrap salmon tightly in plastic wrap and seal it in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Pea purée can also be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw salmon and pea purée overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently warm them on the stove, stirring frequently to avoid sticking, ensuring a delightful experience with your salmon with silky pea purée.

Serving Fresh: For the best taste and texture, enjoy your salmon and pea purée fresh. The flavors shine brightest when served shortly after cooking.

Salmon with Silky Pea Purée Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best salmon fillets?
Absolutely! Look for fillets that are bright in color, with no dark spots or discoloration. Fresh salmon should smell like the sea, not fishy. If you can, ask your fishmonger about the source; wild-caught salmon often has a richer flavor compared to farm-raised.

What’s the best way to store leftover salmon and pea purée?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers. The salmon should be kept in the fridge and consumed within 2 days for the best quality. The pea purée can also be refrigerated for 2 days, but make sure to reheat it gently to preserve its creamy texture.

Can I freeze salmon and pea purée? If so, how?
Yes, you can! Wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to protect against freezer burn—this keeps them good for up to 2 months. For the smooth pea purée, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring there’s no excess air inside. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw both items in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

How can I prevent overcooking the salmon?
Great question! To avoid overcooking, it’s key to monitor the salmon closely. Cook it until it’s just opaque in the center and slightly pink. I recommend using a digital meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 125°F (52°C) for perfectly moist salmon.

Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this Salmon with Silky Pea Purée is naturally gluten-free! Just be cautious with any condiments, like mustard or vinegar, checking labels to ensure they don’t contain gluten. You can make this dish worry-free for gluten-sensitive loved ones!

What should I do if the pea purée is too thick?
No problem at all! If you find that your pea purée is thicker than desired, simply stir in a little bit of warm water or broth, adding it gradually until you reach your preferred silky consistency. Blend it again for a super smooth finish, and don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning!