Seared Salmon and Cilantro-Cashew Whole Grain Bowl Recipe
This Seared Salmon and Cilantro-Cashew Whole Grain Bowl is what I eat when I need a clean slate. I like the approach that involves eating as many healthy fats and vegetables as possible.
4mediumasparagus spearsends trimmed and trimmed into 1-inch lengths
1/2cupfresh or frozen shelled sweet peas
For The Salmon:
Neutral oil (like canola, grapeseed, or peanut oil)
2(4 ounce)salmon fillets
For The Grain Bowl:
11/2 cupscooked whole grains(quinoa, brown rice, or farro; all work great)
1/2mediumfirm-ripe avocadopitted and cut into thin slices
Instructions
For the Cashew-Cilantro Purée: Turn a gas burner on medium heat and char the jalapeño, turning frequently, until blackened and slightly collapsed. Transfer the jalapeños to a cutting board to cool slightly. Once cool enough, trim off the stems from the jalapeños and remove the seeds and ribs. If you like spice, add the seeds and ribs, or taste and adjust to your liking.
Combine jalapeño, nuts, olive oil, garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper in food processor and process until mixture is very creamy and light white. Add cilantro and lime and pulse until just evenly combined and mixture is light green. Taste and add more salt as needed.
Blanch The Asparagus: Bring a small saucepan of well salted water to a boil over high heat. When it boils, add the asparagus and peas and cook until bright green and tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and place in an ice water bath until cold. Drain and set aside.
Cook The Salmon: Meanwhile, season the salmon with a drizzle of the neutral oil and salt and pepper. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, at least 2 minutes. Add the salmon (it should sizzle loudly when it hits the pan) skin-side down and cook, undisturbed until skin is crisp and brown, about 3 minutes. Flip and cook until fish is cooked 2/3 the way through and just browned on second side.
To serve, assemble bowl by arranging grains, fish, vegetables, and a topping with a few slice of avocado and a dollop of the purée.