Experience the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine with this exquisite salmon dish, perfectly spiced and paired with a tangy lemon yogurt sauce. The aromatic spices combined with the freshness of the salmon and the creamy yogurt sauce will transport you straight to the bustling markets and warm sunsets of Morocco, right from your own kitchen.
Photos of Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Some of the spices required for this dish such as ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, and nutmeg might not be readily available in your pantry. These are essential to achieve the authentic Moroccan flavor. You might want to list them down before heading to the supermarket.
Ingredients for Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce
Salmon fillets: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this fish will be the star of the dish.
Ground coriander: A lemony spice that is essential to Moroccan cuisine.
Ground cumin: Earthy spice that adds depth to the dish.
Ground paprika: Adds color and slight sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Gives a warm and sweet flavor.
Ground ginger: Adds a spicy, zesty bite.
Turmeric: Gives a bright yellow color and mild flavor.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtly sweet and nutty flavor.
Cayenne pepper: Gives a spicy kick.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the salmon.
Plain Greek yogurt: Makes the sauce creamy.
Heavy cream: Adds richness to the sauce.
Lemon zest: Gives a fresh citrus flavor.
Fresh lemon juice: Adds tanginess to the sauce.
Minced fresh garlic: Infuses the sauce with a robust flavor.
Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby finish.
One reader, Kerrin Mclendon says:
This Moroccan spiced salmon with lemon yogurt sauce recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavors, and the creamy yogurt sauce perfectly complements the dish. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their salmon game. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce
How to prepare the spice mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ground coriander, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
How to cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper, then sprinkle and rub both sides with the spice mixture. Cook the salmon in the skillet for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
How to make the lemon yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the fat-free plain Greek yogurt, heavy cream, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and minced fresh garlic until smooth and well combined.
How to plate the dish: Place the cooked salmon on a serving plate, top it with the lemon yogurt sauce, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
How To Make Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce
You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to make a Moroccan. When it’s seasoned on the fish, the salmon comes out flavorful and divine.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4pcsskinless salmon filletsroughly around 6 oz
- 1 ¼tspground coriander
- 1tspground cumin
- ½tspground paprika
- ½tspground cinnamon
- ½tspground ginger
- ¼tspturmeric
- ¼tspground nutmeg
- ⅛tspcayenne pepper
- 1tbspolive oil
- salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- ½cupfat free plain Greek yogurt
- 2tbspheavy creamor whipping cream
- ¼tsplemon zest
- 2tspFresh Lemon Juice
- 1tspminced fresh garlic
- 1tbspfresh cilantro,minced
Instructions
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Let salmon rest at room temperature 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl whisk together coriander, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg and cayenne pepper.
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Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season both sides of salmon with salt and pepper then sprinkle and rub both sides with the spice mixture.
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Cook salmon in skillet about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Plate and top with lemon yogurt sauce and garnish with cilantro.
Nutrition
- Calories: 541.63kcal
- Fat: 34.93g
- Saturated Fat: 15.12g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.98g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.20g
- Carbohydrates: 21.19g
- Fiber: 5.42g
- Sugar: 10.59g
- Protein: 40.29g
- Cholesterol: 95.33mg
- Sodium: 945.56mg
- Calcium: 277.46mg
- Potassium: 566.41mg
- Iron: 4.03mg
- Vitamin A: 127.03µg
- Vitamin C: 9.22mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Moroccan Spiced Salmon
When cooking the salmon, ensure that your pan is hot before adding the fish. This will help to create a nice sear and lock in the flavors of the spices. Also, don't move the salmon around too much in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for the recommended time on each side to achieve a crispy exterior. For the lemon yogurt sauce, make sure to use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little more lemon juice or some water.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Moroccan Spiced Salmon Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the salmon the night before to allow the flavors to infuse, saving you time on the day of cooking.
One-pan cooking: Use a non-stick skillet to cook the salmon, reducing the need for multiple pots and pans and minimizing cleanup time.
Lemon yogurt sauce: Make the lemon yogurt sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator, so it's ready to use when serving the salmon.
Organize ingredients: Measure and prepare all the spices and ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process and avoid last-minute scrambling.
Multitask: While the salmon is marinating, use that time to prepare any side dishes or accompaniments to create a well-coordinated meal.
Substitute Ingredients For Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce Recipe
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin has a similar warm, earthy flavor that can complement the other spices in the recipe.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground allspice: Allspice can provide a similar warm and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
ground ginger - Substitute with ground cardamom: Ground cardamom can add a citrusy, herbal flavor similar to ginger, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can provide a warm, slightly sweet and spicy flavor similar to nutmeg.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a mild heat and smoky flavor, complementing the other spices in the recipe.
fat free plain greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt can provide a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, adding a tropical twist to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can offer a rich and creamy texture, while adding a subtle coconut flavor to the sauce.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a citrusy aroma and flavor, complementing the salmon and adding a refreshing twist to the dish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar fresh, herbaceous flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Presentation Tips for Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce
Elevate the plating: Arrange the Moroccan spiced salmon fillets in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring each piece is positioned thoughtfully to create an enticing presentation.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce pops of color to the plate by incorporating vibrant elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro and a drizzle of the lemon yogurt sauce to add visual interest and contrast.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the salmon and the lemon yogurt sauce to take center stage, creating a visually striking and sophisticated presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the lemon yogurt sauce is delicately spooned onto the plate to complement the salmon without overpowering it.
Emphasize balance and harmony: Strive to achieve a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, ensuring that each element on the plate contributes to a cohesive and well-rounded dining experience.
Incorporate elegant garnishes: Consider incorporating delicate microgreens or edible flowers as a refined finishing touch to elevate the overall aesthetic of the dish.
Highlight the salmon's texture: Showcase the succulent texture of the Moroccan spiced salmon by allowing it to take center stage on the plate, drawing attention to its perfectly seared exterior and tender, flaky interior.
Create a captivating visual narrative: Craft a visually compelling presentation that tells a story through the arrangement of the components, inviting diners to embark on a sensory journey from the first glance to the last bite.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Moroccan Spiced Salmon
Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining and mixing various ingredients together.
Skillet: Used for cooking the salmon fillets over medium-high heat.
Tongs: Helpful for flipping the salmon fillets while cooking.
Whisk: Used for blending the spices and creating the lemon yogurt sauce.
Grater: Used for zesting the lemon to add flavor to the yogurt sauce.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the spices and other ingredients.
Spatula: Used for transferring the cooked salmon fillets to a plate.
Microplane zester: Used for finely grating the lemon zest for the yogurt sauce.
Non-stick skillet: Ideal for cooking the salmon fillets without sticking.
Garlic press: Used for mincing fresh garlic to add flavor to the lemon yogurt sauce.
Lemon squeezer: Helpful for extracting fresh lemon juice for the yogurt sauce.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce
- To store leftover moroccan spiced salmon, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Store the lemon yogurt sauce separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and contents.
- To freeze the lemon yogurt sauce, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
- To reheat frozen moroccan spiced salmon, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the thawed salmon in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until warmed through.
- Note that freezing and reheating may slightly affect the texture of the salmon, but the bold Moroccan flavors will still be delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Moroccan Spiced Salmon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the fish to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can quickly become dry and tough.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place the salmon in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help retain moisture and prevent the fish from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Check the temperature and adjust the cooking time as needed.
If you have a steamer basket, you can use it to gently reheat the salmon. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the salmon in the steamer basket, cover the pot, and steam for 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is heated through. This method helps preserve the texture and flavor of the salmon.
To reheat the lemon yogurt sauce, transfer it to a small saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to let the sauce boil, as this can cause the yogurt to curdle. Alternatively, you can microwave the sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds, until it's heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to quickly reheat the salmon. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is heated through. This method will help crisp up the exterior of the salmon while keeping the interior moist and flaky.
Interesting Trivia About Moroccan Spiced Salmon
The Moroccan spiced salmon with lemon yogurt sauce is a healthy and flavorful dish that provides a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. Salmon is a heart-healthy fish that is rich in vitamin D and selenium, which are beneficial for overall health. The combination of spices in this recipe, such as coriander, cumin, and paprika, adds a unique and aromatic flavor profile to the dish. Additionally, the lemon yogurt sauce provides a refreshing and tangy contrast to the warm spices. This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and nutrition, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Is Making Moroccan Spiced Salmon at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this Moroccan spiced salmon with lemon yogurt sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. The spices and salmon may be on the pricier side, but the dish offers a high nutritional value and a delightful dining experience. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $30-$40. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering its health benefits and the exotic flavors it brings to the table.
Is This Moroccan Spiced Salmon Recipe Healthy?
The Moroccan spiced salmon with lemon yogurt sauce recipe is a relatively healthy dish with several nutritious ingredients. Here's why:
- Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health
- The recipe uses a variety of spices, such as coriander, cumin, paprika, and turmeric, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties
- Greek yogurt is used in the sauce, providing a good source of protein and probiotics
- The dish is low in carbohydrates and contains healthy fats from olive oil
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- The recipe calls for heavy cream in the yogurt sauce, which adds unnecessary saturated fat and calories. Consider replacing the heavy cream with more Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream
- While olive oil is a healthy fat, the recipe could benefit from using a smaller amount or opting for a cooking method that requires less oil, such as baking or grilling
- To increase the nutritional value of the dish, consider serving the salmon with a side of colorful vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or a fresh salad
To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, you could:
- Use wild-caught salmon, which tends to have a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio compared to farmed salmon
- Incorporate more fresh herbs like parsley or mint to boost the flavor and add extra vitamins and minerals
- Serve the salmon with a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice to provide a source of complex carbohydrates and fiber
- Experiment with adding other nutrient-dense ingredients to the yogurt sauce, such as finely chopped cucumbers or dill, to increase the vegetable content of the dish
Editor's Opinion on Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce
This Moroccan spiced salmon with lemon yogurt sauce recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The blend of coriander, cumin, and other spices creates a rich and aromatic seasoning for the salmon. The lemon yogurt sauce adds a refreshing and tangy element, perfectly complementing the spices. The dish is well-balanced and offers a unique twist on traditional salmon recipes. It's a wonderful choice for a special dinner or a gathering with friends.
Enhance Your Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Moroccan Spiced Salmon with Lemon Yogurt Sauce Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience, as it features premium-quality salmon fillets seasoned with a harmonious blend of spices that will tantalize your taste buds. The lemon yogurt sauce adds a refreshing zing, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the salmon. With the use of high-quality Greek yogurt and fresh cilantro, this recipe promises a delectable and nutritious meal that you can trust for its exceptional taste and health benefits.
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