Wild Inside-Out Salmon Filets with Fragrant Fennel Pollen
By: Sheri Wetherell
Published: May 17, 2023

When it comes to seafood, there's nothing quite as exquisite as a perfectly cooked salmon fillet. Its tender flesh, delicate flavor, and incredible versatility make it a favorite among both home cooks and professional chefs. And if you're looking to elevate your salmon dish to new heights, I have just the recipe for you: Wild Salmon with Fragrant Fennel Pollen.
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's talk about selecting the star of our dish—salmon. When it comes to buying salmon, I always recommend opting for wild-caught varieties whenever possible. Not only does wild salmon boast a more robust flavor, but it’s more environmentally sustainable than its farmed counterparts. When you're at the fish market or grocery store, keep an eye out for fresh, vibrant fillets with firm flesh and a pleasant oceanic scent. A touch of translucency is perfectly fine, as it indicates the salmon's freshness.
Now that we have our prime ingredient, let's get cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect environment for our salmon to undergo its transformation. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy cleanup.
Begin by giving your salmon fillets a quick rinse under cold water, gently patting them dry with paper towels afterward. Placing them on the prepared baking sheet, they await their flavorful coating.
In a small bowl, combine a tablespoon of fragrant fennel pollen, two tablespoons of luscious olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a stir, and behold, a tantalizing paste emerges. Spoon this aromatic mixture generously over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring an even distribution that will envelop the fish as it bakes.
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen for approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Keep a watchful eye, as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. The goal is to achieve perfectly cooked salmon that flakes easily with a gentle nudge from a fork.
Once the salmon emerges from its hot haven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This brief interlude is crucial for the flavors to meld, resulting in a symphony of taste upon your first bite.
To complete this culinary masterpiece, present the salmon fillets on a platter, ready to be adorned with the refreshing zest of lemon wedges. A gentle squeeze over the top will infuse the dish with a vibrant citrus kick that complements the fragrant fennel pollen beautifully.
Now, my fellow food enthusiasts, you are ready to savor the fruits of your labor. Indulge in the delectable marriage of wild salmon and fennel pollen, a combination that will transport your taste buds to new heights. As you relish each bite, consider pairing this dish with roasted vegetables or a crisp, fresh salad to create a harmonious symphony of flavors.
Embrace the joy of cooking and the artistry of a thoughtfully prepared meal. Enjoy your delicious salmon with fennel pollen! It pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, and a crisp white wine.
How to Make Inside-Out Filets:
One whole salmon fillet with the skin still intact. Remove pin bones with fishbone tweezers or regular tweezers.
Cut filets about the width of four fingers, then cut the center of each filet just to the skin but not through.
Fold each filet in half backward so the skin creates a hinge.