Pan Roasted Dijon Salmon with Herb Oil and Asparagus

Salmon is loaded with protein and omega-3 fatty acids to give our brains a dose of happiness and intelligence. It is also a versatile and easy to cook. Salmon is one of my go-to’s when looking for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you eat it raw, oven roasted or pan-seared it is a great base for any seasoning or sauce your appetite desires. My rule when cooking salmon in a pan is to simply let it be. People flip it and move it around which ends up with an unattractive and overcooked meal. Follow my directions carefully for a perfectly cooked, crispy skinned salmon.

The herb oil I made with this fish is light, refreshing and super easy to make. Fresh herbs are a great way to add flavour to a meal without adding extra sauce, oil or seasoning. Dill, parsley, basil are my three favourites but you’ll see how I explore other herbs such as rosemary, thyme and oregano in future posts. Bon appetit!

Serves 1 or 2

Ingredients:

• Wild caught or organic salmon
• 1 bunch asparagus
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 french shallot
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• fresh parsley
• fresh dill
• 1 tbsp stone ground dijon mustard
• sea salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Coat salmon in 1 tbsp of avocado oil, mustard, sea salt and pepper

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (for asparagus)

3. Heat avocado oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. When the oil begins to smoke, add salmon, skin side down. Keep your fingers on top of the salmon filet for a bit to keep it nice and flat. Watch the side of the piece of salmon for color changes. When 2/3 of the salmon has turned opaque, flip it to the other side and cook until it’s done (about 3-4 minutes depending on how pink you like it.)

4. While the salmon is cooking, finely chop up dill and parsley (about 1/4 cup worth) and add to a small bowl.

6. Finely chop one shallot and add it to herbs.

7. Add olive oil, lemon juice and more stone ground dijon mustard if you like to the herbs and shallots and whisk. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper (add more olive oil if it looks too thick).

8. Check back on your salmon!

9. Boil asparagus for five minutes and drain.

10. Plate asparagus and salmon, drizzle with herb oil. Enjoy!