Spring Style Salmon

For a main that screams SPRING, try this Pan-Seared Salmon with Artichokes and White Wine. It is from the cookbook called "Giada's Italy," by Giada DeLaurentiis.

My husband loves salmon so I try to find new ways to cook it. I used a can of artichoke hearts because my grocery store did not have frozen. And, I used fresh grape tomatoes instead of sundried because I feel like the flav of sundried tomatoes is very strong, and I just wanted fresh fresh fresh! I also used dried oregano because my fresh oregano in my herb garden was not ready yet. Just a sprinkle of 1/4 tsp. Dried oregano can be strong. 

I recommend that you prep your ingredients ahead as the cooking steps happen fast! I made 6 fillets when I did this, so I had two pans going. 

This dish is full of flavor and color. I hope you enjoy it!

I served this deliciousness with this amazing zucchini salad. Click here for the recipe.

Pan-Seared Salmon with Artichokes and White Wine

Serves 4

From "Giada's Italy"

By Giada DeLaurentiis

2 Tbsp. olive oil

4 (6-ounce) skinless center-cut salmon fillets

1 tsp. kosher salt

2 Tbsp. (1/4 stick) unsalted butter

3 fresh oregano sprigs, plus 1 Tbsp. chopped

1 shallot sliced

1 (9-ounce) box frozen artichoke hearts, thawed

3/4 cup chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes

1/2 cup dry white wine

2 cups baby spinach

In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets evenly with the salt and place them, flesh-side down (skin side up), in the hot pan. Cook for 3 minutes or until deep golden brown. Turn the filets on their sides and cook for a minute, then turn to the opposite side and cook 1 minute longer. Lastly, using a thin spatula, flip the fillets and cook an additional 2 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the oregano sprigs to the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Baste the salmon fillets for an additional minute. Remove the salmon and oregano sprigs to a plate to rest.

To the same pan, add the shallot and artichoke hearts. Cook over medium heat, stirring often with a wooden spoon, until the shallot is softened and the artichokes are beginning to brown, about 4 minutes. Add the chopped oregano and the tomatoes and stir to combine. Deglaze the pan with white wine and allow the wine to cook down and reduce by half. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and the spinach. Cook until the spinach is barely wilted. Spoon the vegetables onto a platter and top with the salmon. Spoon any remaining sauce over the fish and serve.

Please note: The Jersey Girl used a can of artichoke hearts in lieu of frozen; fresh grape tomatoes, halved in lie of sun-dried tomatoes; and 1/4 tsp. dried oregano in lieu of fresh. 

Roasted Chickpeas

Snacking is such fun. Here's a healthy alternative to chips and such: Roasted Chickpeas. One lowly can of chickpeas can transform into a crunchy and yummy delish treat for young and old. My son especially loves them!

The two keys to successful roasted chickpeas are as follows: Dry them out on towels for at least an hour. But, I like to leave them out for a few hours, honestly. And, go sparse on the oil. A tablespoon is all you need. 

Roasted Chickpeas

1 15-19 ounce can of chickpeas (I use Goya which is 15 ounce or Cento which is 19 ounces)

1 scant Tbsp. olive oil

1/2 tsp. cumin

1/4 tsp. paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

At least an hour before baking, rinse and drain chickpeas. Spread out on a baking sheet lined with paper towels or on a clean dishtowel to dry out the chickpeas. You want them dry so that they crisp up when in the oven.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spread out the dried chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil. Just use 1 Tbsp.!! Sprinkle with cumin, paprika and salt and pepper. Toss so that chickpeas are evenly coated. Spread out chickpeas into a single layer.

Bake chickpeas for 20 minutes. Toss and return pan to oven. Bake for at least 10 more minutes or until desired brownness and crispiness is reached. (I usually go for a good 40 minutes total.)

Serve warm or at room temp.