I’ve been through many phases when it comes to what I cook at home. I’m most definitely a creature of habit — once I find a recipe that is easy and delicious, I usually stick with it as a staple for weeks at a time.

I initially thought chicken was my favorite protein due to the fact that the chicken tenderloins at Trader Joes are affordable and easy to cook. But ever since I got a Costco membership and discovered that they sell high-quality sockeye salmon… I’ve been hooked.

 

Easy Sockeye Salmon

The salmon that I buy at Costco is usually a very large piece ranging from 2 – 2.5 pounds with a price point of $20. In terms of servings, you’re looking at around 8-10 cuts of salmon which means that each filet costs $2 to $2.50. Not too bad for a protein and omega 3 packed lunch or dinner!

There are many different ways you can marinate sockeye salmon, but I’ve been a big fan of the way my mom prepares hers. All you need is lemon and our beloved Emeril’s Essence (shout out to Emeril Lagasse!) seasoning and you’re good to go.

 

Grocery List:

-Sockeye or Atlantic salmon

-Lemons

-Chopped garlic

-Olive or avocado oil

-Emeril’s Essence:

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon dried leaf oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme

 

Instructions:

  • Place your individual salmon filets on a large plate. Squeeze lemon juice over filets – the more the better.
  • After mixing together Emeril’s Essence, sprinkle it over the salmon so that the seasoning covers the entirety of each filet.
  • Let the filets marinate for 15 minutes or so to let the lemon juice and seasoning soak in.
  • Prep the skillet with a teaspoon or two of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped garlic. Let the garlic brown a bit before adding the salmon (around 2-3 minutes).
  • Add the fillets skin down and let them cook for 3-5 minutes. Don’t worry about a crazy sizzle!
  • Keep an eye on the filets and once you see that they have cooked halfway through, flip. Reduce the heat to low-medium and cover the skillet with the cover or a plate (this will keep the salmon from drying out). Let it cook for 5 more minutes.
  • Once the 5 minutes are up, check whether the salmon is cooked to your liking by cutting into the center of one of the filets.

 

I like adding a side of roasted veggies and quinoa to really round out this meal. Let us know what you think of this sockeye salmon recipe in the comments section!

 

Photo via Caroline Attwood

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