Seared Fish Fillet

Seared Fish Fillet with a Winning Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

Elevate your dinner with this fresh and vibrant dish that pairs perfectly cooked fish fillet with a unique cucumber and red onion salad. Sweet, tangy, and slightly nutty, this salad will steal the show every time.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• Fish fillet: Choose your favorite (salmon, sea bass, or cod), seasoned and seared to perfection.

For the Salad:

• ½ Cucumber: Sliced into half-moons for a crisp texture.
• 1 Shallot onion: Thinly sliced and soaked for half an hour or more in 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
• Dates: Pitted and sliced, adding natural sweetness.
• Rocket (arugula): A peppery base to complement the salad.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkled on top for a nutty crunch.

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar: To lightly pickle the onions.
• 1 tablespoon honey: For a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: To taste.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: For richness.

How to Prepare

1.     Pickle the onion:
Place the sliced red onion in a small bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to soften and develop flavor.

2.     Prepare the salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices, sliced dates, and rocket. Add the pickled red onion (drain it first if necessary) and toss gently.

3.     Make the dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Pour over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

4.     Toast the sesame seeds:
Lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet until golden and fragrant. Sprinkle them over the salad just before serving.

5.     Cook the fish:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the fish fillet with salt and a touch of olive oil. Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

6.     Assemble and serve:
Plate the fish fillet alongside the salad, or serve the salad on top of the fish for a stunning presentation.

Why This Dish?

The combination of the seared fish's delicate flavor and the salad's crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet notes creates a harmonious and balanced meal. The toasted sesame seeds add the perfect finishing touch for both texture and flavor.

Fresh, light, and absolutely delicious – a dish that wins every time! 🐟🥗✨