Seared Asian Salmon Recipe

Looking for a fresh, innovative dish to take a spin on traditional salmon preparation? Check out this savory Seared Asian Salmon, served with Tricolor Quinoa Lotus Bean Pilaf with Wilted Farm Fresh Greens. Created by expert chef Lisa Dormfan, this recipe will have you rethinking the way you prepare salmon far beyond a pinch of salt and pepper. If you love salmon and are in search of a way to mix up your favorite fish, this Seared Asian Salmon is exactly what you’re looking for. Suitable to enjoy any time of year, this salmon recipe will no doubt become a favorite among you and your family.

Who is Lisa Dormfan?

An award-winning licensed nutritionist, author, and chef, Lisa Dormfan is an expert at creating seasonal, locally sourced, and health-conscious dishes. Dormfan, who works for Chefit, a South Florida-based personal chef company, says this dish is a bestseller among her clients. Through Chefit, Dormfan prepares chef-caliber, family-style meals from the comfort of a customer’s home kitchen –– all in less than 90 minutes. Think of it as the convenience and luxury of a personal chef for the price of ordering in or dining out.

Now, she’s sharing her savory, quick and easy recipe for Seared Asian Salmon, served with Tricolor Quinoa Lotus Bean Pilaf with Wilted Farm Fresh Greens.

What’s So Great About Salmon, Anyways?

Think of salmon as the superwoman of protein, carrying a series of naturally occurring minerals that are proven to be beneficial to our bodies and overall health. Salmon, more so than other fish or meat alternatives, offers significant health benefits beyond its satisfying taste. One fillet of salmon is packed with omega-3s, which are proven to facilitate healthy eye, heart, and brain function.

Omega-3s, which can’t be synthesized in the body, are important to managing a balanced diet and are linked to reduced risk of heart disease. Salmon is also rich in the antioxidant, astaxanthin, which is said to improve blood flow, heart health, reduce stress, and even improve skin.

Salmon is also an optimal source of protein, giving the body a substantial portion of protein while providing healthy, natural resources of antioxidants and omega-3s. Plus, this fatty fish is a quick and easy way to enjoy a meal that your body will thank you for later.

What’s So Great About This Seared Asian Salmon?

Combining both sweet and savory ingredients, Dorman’s Seared Asian Salmon features a magical blend of flavor, made with tones of brown sugar, basil, sesame seeds, and leafy greens. Besides its great taste, this recipe is entirely gluten-free and is perfect for both big groups or a quiet dinner for one.

Read on for an inside look at Dormfan’s iconic Seared Asian Salmon, a deliciously gourmet salmon recipe to prepare at home.

Step 1

Roast garlic in a pan on medium heat. Add a touch of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Let the garlic simmer to golden brown. While the garlic is simmering, prepare the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl. Blend them together, letting all the flavors combine for the perfect marinade. Once the garlic looks perfectly golden, pour it into the bowl for the final mix.

Step 2

Put the salmon fillets on a skillet on medium to low heat. Marinate for 15 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired. Prepare the quinoa pilaf while the Seared Asian Salmon is marinating.

Step 3

Bring 2 cups water to a boil, then add quinoa and lotus seeds. Cover, and bring to medium heat. Cook approximately 15 minutes. Add Thai basil in last 3 minutes. Then add sea salt to taste.

Step 4

Sear salmon filet with the marinade, skin side up for about 5 minutes on high heat. Let the salmon soak up all the flavor. Depending on desired intensity, be generous with marinade pour or keep it light with a single brush. After the 5 minutes, remove the salmon from heat to cool for an additional 5 minutes. While the Seared Asian Salmon is cooling, garnish the plate so it’s ready to be served. Add a spoonful of the pilaf and another touch of marinade for extra flavor.

Step 5

Voila! Your Seared Asian Salmon can be served immediately as a warm dish or served cold as a tangy treat. Enjoy as a hearty entrée or portioned as a fun appetizer.