Description
A vibrant and flavorful Pan Seared Salmon recipe served with roasted broccoli and quinoa, topped with a spicy and sweet Firecracker Aioli sauce. This dish combines crisp seared salmon with a creamy, zesty aioli that perfectly complements the healthy sides, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 Salmon Fillets (6 oz each)
- ½ cup Vegetable Oil
- 4 Tablespoons Butter (room temperature)
For the Firecracker Aioli
- ½ cup Light Mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1 Tablespoon Sriracha
- 1 Tablespoon Rice Vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Sesame Oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
For Serving
- 3 cups Roasted Broccoli (prepared)
- 3 cups Quinoa (prepared)
- 2 Scallions (diced, optional)
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Firecracker Aioli: In a small mixing bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly. Cover and refrigerate the aioli until ready to serve to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare the Pan Seared Salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and vegetable oil to the pan. Allow the butter to melt completely and the oil-butter mixture to heat until hot but not smoking.
- Cook the Salmon Fillets: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet, ensuring there is about 1 inch space between each. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, until a golden brown crust forms on the bottom.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip each salmon fillet and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side until cooked through and slightly firm to the touch. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Assemble to Serve: On each plate or bowl, place ¾ cup of roasted broccoli and ¾ cup of cooked quinoa. Lay a pan-seared salmon fillet on top. Drizzle generously with the Firecracker Aioli sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and diced scallions if desired for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding salmon for a crispy crust.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; give salmon room to sear properly.
- Use room temperature butter to help it melt more evenly.
- The aioli can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor.
- Roasted broccoli and quinoa can be prepared in advance for quicker assembly.
- Adjust the sriracha amount in the aioli to control spiciness.
- Optional garnishes like sesame seeds and scallions add extra flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
