How to treat a beautiful piece of wild salmon from the Farmers Market with the respect it deserves?
Slow roast it on a cedar plank! I love how a cedar plank adds a beautiful oaky, smoky touch and how slow roasting preserves juices and flavors. And what is even perfect for summer laziness and fuss-freeness, you really don't need to do much... at all...
Just pick a bunch of fresh thyme from the Market while you are at it...
Brush plank and fish with olive oil. Also brush the fish with a dash of maple or agave syrup, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with sprigs of thyme...
Put in oven preheated at 350degF, in the lower half, and roast for 20-30' until the fish is cooked to your desired level...
Serve with Market bought mixed leaves and edible flowers for good measure and prettiness... Perfect summer dinner...
By the way:
- You can find disposable cedar planks in many supermarkets these days. Better still, get a re-usable one. I have had mine, a Chinook Plank Inc. one, for years, and it is a gift for which I am still thankful.
- Brushing with a combination of soy sauce, pepper, orange juice or lemon juice and a bit of sweetener also works.
- This is naturally gluten-free and low in FODMAP.
- For another recent ode to wild salmon and an inspirational recipe, check David Tanis's post in the New York Times.