California King Salmon season is finally here, running May through late summer. This is a rare treat for a limited time.
California King Salmon is a joy to cook on the barbecue, baked, or broiled. Enjoy this brilliant fish that’s worth the splurge!
Recipe: Wild King Salmon With Savory Whipped Cream
Yields six servings. Recipe courtesy of the New York Times.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds king salmon fillet, skin off and pin bones removed
- Salt and pepper
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- Pinch of cayenne
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon snipped chives
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Tarragon leaves, for garnish
- Watercress, for garnish
- Violets, nasturtiums or other edible flower petals for garnish (optional)
Preparation
- Slice salmon diagonally into 6 four-ounce portions about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick (or have your fishmonger slice it). Place on a cutting board or baking sheet. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Put cream in a mixing bowl and beat with a whisk until just barely thickened. Add 1/4 teaspoon salt, some freshly ground pepper, the mustard, the cayenne and the lemon zest. Beat again until soft peaks form, but don’t let the cream get too stiff. Fold in chives. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Put butter in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When butter begins to foam, add salmon pieces and reduce heat slightly. Cook gently on one side for about 2 minutes, then flip and cook one minute more. Turn off heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Salmon should be cooked through but moist. Be careful not to overcook.
- Transfer salmon to a platter or individual plates. Spoon some savory whipped cream over each serving. Garnish with tarragon, watercress and flowers, if desired. Yields six servings.
Contact us at californiakingsalmon.org for more information or assistance in locating a supplier nearby.