Rediscover nutritious salmon bellies: tasty salad recipe and more cooking ideas
Few people value this unique part of the fish, which was once greatly appreciated. We're referring to the unassuming yet nourishing salmon bellies. Why should you incline towards these tender fish pieces, and how can you use them to prepare a tasty salad?
10:07 AM EST, January 3, 2024
Understanding the salmon belly
The salmon belly is the meat from the fish's abdominal region. Its taste and fat level may vary according to the specific salmon species. It exhibits a mild taste and aroma while packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and vitamin D.
Salmon bellies were once a favorite, particularly in Japanese cuisine, where they were served raw, grilled, baked, or boiled. While they may not be as sought-after today, you can still find them in fish markets.
Salad with salmon belly - A recipe
If you're looking for a nutritious and appealing dish, consider a salad featuring salmon bellies. The following recipe is simple, quick, and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 0.44 lbs of salmon bellies,
- 1 arugula lettuce,
- 2 tomatoes,
- 1 red bell pepper,
- 1 red onion,
- 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise,
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice,
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt,
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Steps:
- Rinse and dry the salmon bellies, then cut them into pieces approximately 0.8 inches in size.
- Dice the tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions.
- In a bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.
- In a separate smaller bowl, create a dressing by mixing together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing.
- Add the salmon bellies to the salad and mix thoroughly.
Exploring other ways to cook salmon bellies
Grilled salmon bellies
Method: Clean and dry the salmon bellies. Drizzle them with lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Grill on each side for about 5 minutes until they turn golden brown. Serve with your choice of salad, potatoes, or rice.
Baked salmon bellies
Method: Clean and dry the salmon bellies. Drizzle them with lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 390°F for about 20 minutes until they turn golden. Serve with your choice of sides like vegetables or rice.
Salmon bellies in batter
Method: Clean and dry the salmon bellies. Coat them in a pancake batter and fry them in oil until they turn golden. Serve with your choice of sides, such as garlic sauce or ketchup.
Rediscover salmon bellies and use them innovatively in the kitchen, taking inspiration from our salad recipe. Restore the status of fish bellies and savor a taste that was once considered a rare indulgence.
