Tomato, Basil, and Balsamic Salmon

The inspiration for this recipe came from my little kitchen garden I started this spring.  I finally have an abundance of bright, delicate, warm-hued tomatoes taking over the garden. I couldn't be happier.  My first thought on how to use these little gems is the famous Italian trio: tomato, basil and balsamic vinegar, which is often paired with fresh mozzarella in the classic caprese salad.  I took these three base ingredients — and a little red onion — and steamed them in parchment paper with a fresh salmon filet.  The preparation is the easy Fish en Papillote technique as I described in this recipe using cod and other fresh vegetables. Served with some wild rice, this recipe makes a balanced and healthy meal. If you aren't growing your own tomatoes, you can always grab a variety of cherry and grape tomatoes this time of year at your local farmers market or grocery store.  If you're interested in growing these specific tomatoes next year, Botanical Interest's Rainbow Blend Seeds.

Ingredients:


-1 salmon filet
-1 handful cherry or grape tomatoes
-2 Tbsp thinly sliced red onion (or halved red pearl onions)
-5-6 fresh basil leaves
-1 Tbsp olive oil
-1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
-salt and pepper

Also needed:


-parchment paper

Seared Ahi Tuna on a Bed of Zucchini Ribbons and Whole Wheat Pasta with Spicy Sauce

I'm a carb craver.  I've been trying to eat healthier but can't kick my pasta desires.  Long, delicate strips of zucchini twirled with whole wheat pasta makes this a lighter, yet stil filling, substantial dish.  It's tossed in a sesame dressing and paired with sesame and wasabi crusted ahi tuna for a fresh and healthy dose of protein. If you want a bit of a heat drizzled on top, stir together greek yogurt and Sriracha for a leaner Asian "spicy mayo".  The blend of wonderful textures and fresh fish make this the perfect summer meal.  The only utensil you may not have is a "zester" to create the thin strips of vegetables.  I purchased mine from Crate and Barrel for only a few dollars but I assume it can also be found at Target, Sur La Table or William Sonoma.  You can see mine in a picture below. 

Ingredients:

-1/2 lb fresh tuna (make sure it's sear-grade..just ask - commonly found at Whole Foods)

-3-4 Tbsp sesame seeds, white and/or black

-2 tsp powdered wasabi

-1/2 package whole wheat spaghetti  

-1 zucchini

-3 Tbsp toasted sesame oil

-1 Tbsp rice vinegar

-1 Tbsp coconut or vegetable oil for searing

Light Asian Spicy Sauce:

-1/8 cup greek yogurt

-1-3 Tbsp Sriracha, depending on your palate

Pan Seared Snapper with Citrus Saffron Vegetables over Arugula Orzo

My dad overnighted me multiple pounds of fresh snapper from Florida the other week, but pretty much any white fish would work for this recipe.  The orange juice and saffron simmered vegetables add a great Spanish flare.  The orzo is simple and tossed with fresh baby arugula for a peppery and light side dish.  This dinner is very easy and the only special ingredient is the saffron that can be found at any specialty spice store.  It's a must for the pantry and even though it is expensive, a little goes a long way.  

Ingredients: 

-2 snapper filets (or other white fish)

-salt and pepper

-2 Tbsp coconut oil or vegetable oil

-1/4 cup Wondra flour (or all purpose flour)

-1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

-1 zucchini, diced

-1/2 white onion, chopped

-2 cloves garlic, minced

-zest and juice from 1 orange

-2 large handfuls baby arugula

-1.5 cups orzo

-1/4 cup white wine

-pinch of saffron threads

Pan Seared Tofu and Sushi in Ponzu

This post has two recipes, which I rarely — if ever —do, but they are both so easy that it seemed silly to do one for each.  Blake and I had this as basically our meal one night...with a little Asian Marinated Cucumbers...oh and a Fresh Tuna Tower.  We were stuffed.  It's all so fresh, which is great, especially if you're trying to beat this summer heat.  The sushi-grade fish is from Whole Foods so fairly accessible and a safe bet for eating raw.

Ingredients for Tofu:


-2 Tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
-1 pkg. tofu in water
-3 green onions, chopped

Ingredients for Sushi:


-1/4 lb sushi-grade tuna
-1/4 lb sushi-grade salmon
-1 Tbsp Ponzu sauce (citrus soy sauce, can usually be found at Whole Foods or Asian Market)
-1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
-1 Tbsp wasabi powder, rehydrated or wasabi paste