“For me no good food is illuminated without acidity.” - Alex Guarnaschelli
Salmon is one of my favorite types of fish, and when it is paired with lemon and fresh herbs, it’s truly elevated. Smoked fish is absolutely delicious - it’s perfect for brunch, lunch or dinner. You can enjoy this protein with sautéed veggies, roasted carrots, or even make a smoked salmon sandwich - it’s truly versatile.
I had the best time experimenting with this dish alongside my husband, check out the recipe below.
What You’ll Need:
(serves two people)
2 pieces of Atlantic Salmon
1 large lemon (fresh squeezed juice)
2 slices of lemon, garnish for each fish (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
2 teaspoon thyme, divided
2 teaspoon rosemary, divided
2 teaspoon cracked black pepper, divided
a pinch of salt for each piece of fish
1 tablespoon of melted salted butter, divided
Directions:
STEP 1: Prepare your fish, ensure it is free of any bones, remove the skin (or leave it on - during the smoking process the skin will naturally fall off), and rinse off each piece. Pat the fish dry, remove any excess water, and place on a parchment paper lined plate.
STEP 2: Lightly drizzle olive oil on the fish, and then add your seasonings onto each piece - rosemary, cracked black pepper, thyme, and salt. Ensure the seasonings cover the top of the fish completely - then slowly pour lemon juice onto the salmon. Last, gently place a lemon slice on top each cut of salmon, if you desire.
Pro Tip: Feel free to adjust your seasonings according to your taste!
STEP 3: While the fish is setting and marinating, prepare your smoker - oil the grates, start the fire with pecan wood, and begin heating the vessel to 225 degrees fahrenheit.
STEP 4: Next, once the smoker is ready place the salmon on the grates, and close the vessel. You’ll want the fish to smoke for about 3 hours or when the internal temp reaches 135 degrees fahrenheit.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the salmon, you’ll notice that the fish becomes flaky to the touch when it’s reaching the perfect internal temperature.
STEP 5: Once the fish is cooked remove it from the smoker, drizzle melted butter onto each piece of fish.
STEP 6: Serve and enjoy!
XO, Analise