Flavorful Wild Salmon Bowls with Zesty Pineapple Salsa and Creamy Lemon Dill Tartar
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As a parent, ensuring my children get all the essential nutrients can sometimes feel like a culinary challenge. Last summer, I stumbled upon a compelling article that highlighted the critical role of fatty fish in supporting developing brains. The research emphasized the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids found abundantly in fish, or through supplementation with high-quality fish oil. This revelation sparked a new mission in our kitchen: to incorporate fish into our family meals more frequently and, most importantly, to make it genuinely appealing to my kids.
For a long time, salmon was a dish reserved primarily for my husband, Jake, and me, while the kids often opted for their beloved mac and cheese. I knew I needed a strategy to bridge this gap. My goal was to transform fish from an occasional, tolerated meal into a genuinely anticipated and enjoyed one. And I’m thrilled to report that, through consistent exposure and creative recipes, my children have developed a much greater appreciation for fish than they had a year ago. It’s truly a testament to the power of perseverance in the kitchen!
This particular dinner recipe is a shining example of that success. It turned out so incredibly well that I found myself dreaming about the leftovers I’d get to savor for lunch the very next day. The vibrant, fresh flavors and the delightful interplay of textures were simply irresistible. From the perfectly cooked wild salmon to the bright, tangy pineapple salsa and the creamy, herbaceous tartar sauce, every component sings in harmony. Seriously, you absolutely have to make this! And let me be clear: do NOT skip the homemade lemon dill tartar sauce. It’s the secret weapon that ties everything together and elevates this dish from great to extraordinary.
Beyond its deliciousness, this meal is packed with nutritional benefits. Wild salmon is a powerhouse of Omega-3s, protein, and essential vitamins, supporting not just brain development but also heart health and overall well-being. Coupled with the fresh fruit and vegetables in the salsa and the wholesome coconut rice, it’s a balanced and satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a fantastic way to introduce diverse flavors and textures to even the pickiest eaters, often transforming their initial skepticism into genuine enthusiasm.
The Essential Ingredient: Why I Choose Redmond Real Salt
When it comes to seasoning, I am incredibly particular about the quality of my salt. In fact, my favorite, and the only salt I consistently use in my kitchen, is Redmond Real Salt. There are several compelling reasons for my unwavering loyalty to this particular brand.
First and foremost, Redmond Real Salt is pure and unprocessed. Unlike many commercial table salts that undergo extensive refinement, stripping them of their natural goodness, Redmond Real Salt retains its integrity. It’s mined directly from an ancient seabed in central Utah, making it a true and unadulterated sea salt, rich in the trace minerals that our bodies need. This natural sourcing means it hasn’t been subjected to harsh chemicals or bleaching processes, preserving its inherent mineral content and natural color.
The absence of fillers, anti-caking agents, additives, or unhealthy pollutants is another significant factor in my choice. Sadly, the majority of commercially available table salts on the market are laden with these not-so-great additions, which can detract from their purity and potentially impact our health. Redmond Real Salt, on the other hand, is simply salt as nature intended it to be – pure, wholesome, and beneficial. These naturally occurring trace minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium, are crucial for various bodily functions and contribute to a more complex and nuanced flavor profile that enhances every dish.
To make this premium salt more cost-effective for my family, I employ a smart bulk-buying strategy. Every few years, I order a 25-pound bag of Redmond Real Salt. This might sound like a lot, but it’s an incredibly economical way to ensure I always have a high-quality salt on hand. I store it in airtight mason jars, which keeps it fresh and easily accessible, and this bulk supply typically lasts my family for several years. It’s an investment in health and flavor that truly pays off in the long run.
Ready to experience the difference? You can find Redmond Real Salt here.* Don’t forget to use the coupon code ‘AMBERSKITCHEN’ at checkout to save 15% on your purchase!
*This is an affiliate link, and I may receive a commission on your purchase. Your support through these links is greatly appreciated and helps me continue to share delicious and healthy recipes with you. Thank you for shopping through this link.
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This recipe truly embodies the joy of fresh, wholesome cooking. Each component is simple to prepare yet contributes significantly to the overall burst of tropical and savory flavors. The beauty of a dish like this is its versatility; while perfect for a family dinner, it also makes for impressive entertaining or a fantastic meal prep option for healthy lunches throughout the week. Let’s dive into how you can bring this incredible meal to your own table.
When selecting your salmon, always opt for wild-caught if possible. Wild salmon tends to have a richer flavor and a better nutritional profile compared to farmed varieties. Look for fillets with a vibrant, bright color and firm flesh. Costco is a great source for high-quality wild-caught salmon fillets, often available at a reasonable price.
Wild Salmon, Pineapple Salsa, and Lemon Dill Tartar Sauce Rice Bowls
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Ingredients
For the Wild Salmon
- 1 large fillet of bright-colored, wild-caught salmon (I recommend sourcing from Costco for great quality)
- 2 Tbsps avocado oil (or olive oil, for a healthy cooking fat)
- Lemon pepper seasoning (I prefer Redmond Real Salt organic lemon pepper for its superior flavor and mineral content)
For the Pineapple Cucumber Salsa
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced (for a mild bite and beautiful color)
- 1/2 bell pepper, finely diced (any color works, or swap for a finely minced jalapeño for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber (adds a refreshing crispness, or swap for jicama for a slightly sweeter crunch)
- 4 diced Roma tomatoes (or other firm, flavorful tomatoes)
- 2-3 cups diced fresh pineapple (ensure it’s ripe for maximum sweetness and tang)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (don’t skip this, it brightens the whole salsa!)
- 1 clove minced garlic (adds a subtle depth)
- Juice of one fresh lime (essential for balancing the flavors and adding zest)
- 1/2 tsp Redmond Real Salt (or to taste)
For the Fluffy Coconut Rice
- 2 cups Jasmine Rice (its fragrant quality is perfect here)
- 2 cups water
- 1, 14 oz can full-fat coconut milk (for richness and creamy texture)
- 1 TBSP sugar (just a touch to enhance the coconut flavor)
- 1 tsp Redmond Real Salt (or to taste)
For the Creamy Lemon-Dill Tartar Sauce
- 1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil-based for a healthier option)
- Juice of 1/2 fresh lemon (adds bright acidity)
- 2-3 Tbsps chopped fresh dill (the star of this sauce, use generously!)
- Redmond Real Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Salmon Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature for a quick, even cook that keeps the salmon moist.
- Place your salmon fillet skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. Drizzle generously with avocado oil, then season abundantly with your preferred lemon pepper seasoning, ideally Redmond Real Salt organic lemon pepper for the best flavor. Ensure the entire surface is coated for maximum flavor penetration.
- Bake for approximately 15 minutes. The key is to bake just until the salmon starts to flake easily with a fork. Overcooking salmon can lead to a dry, less flavorful result, so keep a close eye on it! The exact time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillet.
Pineapple Cucumber Salsa
- In a medium bowl, combine all the diced ingredients for the pineapple cucumber salsa: red onion, bell pepper (or jalapeño), cucumber (or jicama), tomatoes, fresh pineapple, cilantro, and minced garlic. Pour in the juice of one fresh lime and sprinkle with Redmond Real Salt. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Allow the salsa to sit for at least 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld, enhancing its deliciousness.
Coconut Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine the Jasmine rice, water, full-fat coconut milk, sugar, and Redmond Real Salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat, but keep it covered for an additional 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam perfectly and absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in fluffy, fragrant coconut rice. Do not lift the lid during this resting period!
Lemon-Dill Tartar Sauce
- While the salmon bakes and rice simmers, prepare your amazing tartar sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and chopped fresh dill. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Season with Redmond Real Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The fresh dill and lemon are paramount here, offering a bright, creamy counterpoint to the richness of the salmon.
Assemble Your Delicious Rice Bowl
- Start with a generous bed of fluffy Coconut Rice at the bottom of your serving bowl. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture provide a perfect base.
- Spoon a hearty amount of the vibrant Pineapple Salsa over the rice. Its fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet notes will add an exciting burst of flavor and a refreshing crunch.
- Carefully place a piece of your perfectly baked Wild Salmon on top of the salsa. Its flaky, tender texture and savory seasoning are the star of the show.
- Drizzle generously with the creamy Lemon-Dill Tartar Sauce. This is where all the flavors truly come together, offering a luscious, herbaceous finish that complements the salmon and salsa beautifully.
- For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish your bowl with more fresh dill sprigs and a wedge of lemon. The fresh herbs and citrus will brighten the presentation and offer an additional zing. Serve immediately and enjoy this spectacular combination of tastes and textures!
This meal isn’t just about delicious flavors; it’s about creating a wholesome and enjoyable eating experience for your entire family. The combination of nutrient-dense wild salmon, refreshing tropical salsa, comforting coconut rice, and a bright, creamy tartar sauce makes for a meal that feels both indulgent and incredibly healthy. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new ingredients and ensure everyone is getting their share of beneficial Omega-3s.
I highly encourage you to try this recipe for your next dinner. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, yet yields restaurant-quality results that will impress even the most discerning palates. And remember, the joy of cooking comes from experimenting and adapting, so feel free to tweak ingredients to your liking. Perhaps a touch of mango in the salsa, or a hint of ginger in the rice? The possibilities are endless. Enjoy the journey of bringing these incredible flavors into your home!