Sautéed Salmon with Leeks and Tomatoes

Lately I have been trying to focus a bit more on healthy meals. Ironically, in the mail last week, was a recipe from a very good friend, who also happens to be an incredibly good cook. She sent me this to try and promised it was not only delicious, but a snap to make and of course quite healthy.

Now, it’s not that I don’t trust her, but I have not been the biggest fan of salmon. Although I do try to have it occasionally because I know it is so good for you. So for you Marty, I made it tonight and you were spot on, I loved it and I highly recommend it. Sometimes you just have to go on good faith and trust that good friends won’t disappoint!

PS, a little update since I first posted it back in 2018, this has definitely become one of my all-time favorite quick, healthy meals.

INGREDIENTS
4 boneless salmon fillets
kosher salt & fresh ground pepper, to taste
1 leek, well trimmed, white part only
1 pint cherry tomatoes
3 Tbs. olive oil
2 Tbs. lemon juice
2-3 Tbs. julienned fresh basil or flat leaf parsley

DIRECTIONS
The salmon should be at room temperature, check for bones (remove with tweezers if you find any) and sprinkle with salt and pepper. After trimming the leek, slice down the middle, submerge in a bowl of water and swish around to rinse away any sand particles. Then, remove from water, pat dry with a towel, slice into thin strips and finely chop. You should have at least 1/3 cup. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. I prefer to slice them on the diagonal, no particular reason, other than I think they look better on the diagonal.

Heat 2 Tbs. of the oil in a nonstick skillet over moderate heat and add the salmon, skin side up. Cook for 2-3 minutes before turning. Cook on the second side for 2-3 more minutes (depending on how well done you prefer) and then transfer to a warm platter. Add the remaining oil to the skillet, then add the tomatoes, leeks, salt, pepper and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes, pour the mixture over the salmon, sprinkle with the basil and serve.

This is so quick, easy and tasty. Please give it a try and let me know how you like it.