Chef Ryan

Cajun Chef Ryan

Feeling & sharing a world of cooking ~ more than your average Cajun



 



Baked Pesto Salmon: A Healthy and Sustainable Recipe

June 13th, 2023 · Comments Off on Baked Pesto Salmon: A Healthy and Sustainable Recipe

Baked Pesto Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Cucumber Dill Salad
Baked Pesto Salmon with Roasted Asparagus and Cucumber Dill Salad

In this blog post, we will share a delicious and nutritious recipe for Baked Pesto Salmon. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it also incorporates sustainable resources, making it an excellent choice for both your health and the environment. By using sustainably sourced salmon and homemade pesto, you can enjoy a guilt-free meal that supports both your well-being and the planet. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

  • 4 6-ounce salmon fillets, preferably sustainably sourced
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray
  2. Prepare the homemade pesto. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the ingredients are well blended.
  3. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the food processor or blender is running, until the mixture forms a smooth and creamy consistency. Set the pesto aside.
  4. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin side down. Season the fillets with salt and pepper.
  5. Spoon a generous amount of homemade pesto over each salmon fillet, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
  6. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for approximately 12-14 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them. We like ours medium, almost like sushi.
  7. Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
  8. Serve the Baked Pesto Salmon hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish. You can also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables such as asparagus and/or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

Sustainable Tips:

1. Choose sustainably sourced salmon: Look for salmon that is labeled as sustainably caught or farmed, such as wild-caught Alaskan salmon or salmon certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). These options help support responsible fishing practices and protect marine ecosystems.

2. Utilize locally sourced ingredients: When possible, purchase basil and other fresh ingredients from local farmers or grow your own herbs at home. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation and supports local agriculture. Or better yet, grow your own basil like we do in our back yard.

3. Minimize food waste: Use all parts of the ingredients when cooking. For instance, save any leftover basil stems to infuse in oils or stocks, and use the salmon skin to make crispy salmon skin chips as a tasty snack.

4. Opt for reusable or recyclable packaging: When buying pre-packaged ingredients, choose brands that use sustainable packaging materials. Look for recyclable, compostable, or reusable packaging options to minimize waste.

By making simple choices such as using sustainably sourced salmon and homemade pesto, we can create delicious meals that are good for our health and the environment. This Baked Pesto Salmon recipe is a testament to how sustainable cooking can be both enjoyable and flavorful. Give it a try and savor the taste of a dish that supports your well-being and the planet we call home. Enjoy!

Comments Off on Baked Pesto Salmon: A Healthy and Sustainable RecipeTags: Recipes · Seafood · Weight Watchers

Healthy and Delicious Pecan Crusted Grouper

June 12th, 2023 · Comments Off on Healthy and Delicious Pecan Crusted Grouper

Points: 6 ~ Calories: 250 ~ Carbs: 6g ~ Serves: 4 ~ Prep: 10 minutes ~ Cook Time: 14 minutes ~ Total Time: 24 minutes
Found on page 58 in the Fish & Seafood chapter of the Weight Watchers Annual Recipes For Success 2002, this recipe is only 6 points per serving.

If you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious seafood dish, this pecan crusted grouper recipe is just what you need. With a crunchy coating made from heart-healthy pecans and a tender, flaky grouper fillet, this dish is both healthy and delicious. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this delightful meal.

Pecan Crusted Grouper
Pecan Crusted Grouper

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted
  • 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped sweet onion
  • 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper flakes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 6-ounce filets grouper or red snapper
  • Cooking spray
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. Combine the first 8 ingredients in a small bowl, stir well and set aside. Combine the melted butter and Worcestershire sauce in a separate small bowl.
  3. Arrange fish filets on a flat baking pan coated with cooking spray. Spread 1 teaspoon of the butter mixture on top of each filet. Then top each file with equal amounts of the pecan mixture, covering each fish filet completely.
  4. Lightly coat the tops of each filet with cooking spray, then bake in the 400°F oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until fish flakes with a fork.

This pecan crusted grouper recipe combines the richness of pecans with the delicate flavor of grouper to create a dish that is both healthy and delicious. With its crispy coating and tender fish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So go ahead and give it a try for a delightful seafood experience that will leave you satisfied and wanting more. Enjoy this healthy and delicious pecan crusted grouper recipe!

Lagnappe:

  • For a gluten-free version, replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or substitute other herbs for parsley, such as dill or thyme.
  • Ensure the grouper fillets are fresh and of high quality for the best taste and texture.
  • If you’re not a fan of grouper, you can use other firm white fish like snapper, cod, or halibut.
Pecan Crusted Grouper in the pan
Pecan Crusted Grouper in the pan

Comments Off on Healthy and Delicious Pecan Crusted GrouperTags: Entrees · Recipes · Seafood · Weight Watchers

Nutritious Delight: Sauteed String Beans with Almonds

June 11th, 2023 · Comments Off on Nutritious Delight: Sauteed String Beans with Almonds

1 Point – Total Time: 19 min – Prep: 8 min – Cook: 11 min – Serves: 4

Sauteed String Beans with Almonds
Sauteed String Beans with Almonds

Are you looking for a healthy and delicious side dish that’s packed with nutrients? Look no further! This recipe for sautéed string beans with almonds is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavors. The crispness of the fresh string beans combined with the nutty crunch of toasted slivered almonds creates a delightful combination that will leave you wanting more. This WW dish is only 1 point per serving, and is a tasty treat with any main dish. So, let’s dive into this wholesome and satisfying dish!

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup Slivered almonds
  • 1 tsp Olive oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 4 cups, green snap beans fresh, trimmed, or thawed if frozen
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ¼ tsp Table salt
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper

Preparation Steps

  1. Place almonds in a large dry skillet and place pan over medium heat. Cook until nuts are golden brown, shaking pan frequently, about 2 to 4 minutes. Remove nuts from pan; set aside.
  2. Heat oil in same skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add string beans and sauté for 1 minute. Add broth to pan; cover and steam until string beans are crisp-tender, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper; stir to coat. Remove from heat; stir in toasted almonds. Yields about 3/4 cup per serving.
Sauteed String Beans with Almonds

Sauteed string beans with almonds is a simple yet satisfying side dish that adds a burst of nutrition and flavor to any meal. With its vibrant colors, delightful crunch, and nutty goodness, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and tasty dish to elevate your dining experience, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds and body will thank you!

Comments Off on Nutritious Delight: Sauteed String Beans with AlmondsTags: Produce · Recipes · Weight Watchers

Glazed Ginger Salmon: A Deliciously Healthy Recipe

June 10th, 2023 · Comments Off on Glazed Ginger Salmon: A Deliciously Healthy Recipe

Ginger Glazed Salmon with a side of Green Beans Almondine
Ginger Glazed Salmon with a side of Green Beans Almondine

Are you looking for a flavorful and nutritious dish to add to your meal rotation? Look no further than this Weight Watchers Glazed Ginger Salmon recipe! Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and a burst of tangy flavors, this dish will satisfy your taste buds while keeping you on track with your healthy eating goals. At only 7 points per serving, this recipe is found on page 61 in the Fish & Shellfish chapter of the Weight Watchers Annual Recipes for Success 2002 Edition. So, let’s dive in and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Ginger Glazed Salmon

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup thawed orange juice concentrate
  • 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 4 6-ounce salmon filets
  • Cooking spray
  1. Combine the first 7 ingredients in a small bowl, stir well and set aside.
  2. Coat salmon filets with cooking spray. Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add the salmon filets. Spoon 2 teaspoons of the orange juice mixture over each salmon filet and continue to cook for about 3-minutes. Turn over the salmon filets and spoon an additional 2 teaspoons of the orange juice mixture over each salmon filet, continue to cook about 3-4 more minutes, or until your desired doneness. Transfer the salmon to a serving platter.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and add the reserved orange juice mixture to the pan, stir the liquid for about a minute, scraping the skillet to loosen browned bits. Spoon the sauce over the salmon filets.
Ginger Glazed Salmon in the cast iron skillet
Ginger Glazed Salmon in the cast iron skillet

Points: 7 ~ Calories: 300 ~ Carbs: 15g

With its delectable flavors and healthy ingredients, this Weight Watchers Glazed Ginger Salmon recipe is a winner when it comes to both taste and nutrition. It’s a perfect dish to incorporate into your meal plans, as it is not only delicious but also helps you stay on track with your weight loss or maintenance goals. Enjoy this flavorful salmon creation and feel good about nourishing your body with a dish that’s both satisfying and good for you!

Comments Off on Glazed Ginger Salmon: A Deliciously Healthy RecipeTags: Entrees · Recipes · Seafood · Weight Watchers

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