Valentine'day: Create your perfect date

Valentine’s Day is all about celebrating love and connection, and what better way to do that than by preparing a memorable meal for your special someone? Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, creating a meal that’s both delicious and nourishing can make your Valentine’s dinner unforgettable. This recipe features a tender salmon fillet, served with a creamy pea sauce, sweet caramelized onions, and a medley of roasted vegetables like broccoli, romanesco, and cauliflower. It's the perfect dish to create a cozy, romantic ambiance and share a beautiful meal together. 

The Story Behind Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day, a time to celebrate love and affection, has been cherished for centuries in various ways. While roses and chocolates may be traditional gifts, food has always played an integral role in marking this special occasion. After all, sharing a meal is one of the most intimate ways to connect with someone.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of making this stunning and healthy Valentine’s Day dinner for two. Let’s dive into the story behind this dish, the ingredients you'll need, and how to prepare it step by step.

Ingredients for 2 Servings:

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this beautiful Valentine’s Day meal for two:

For the Salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets 
• 1 tbsp olive oil 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika 
• 1 tbsp vegetable bouillon 
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme 

For the Pea cream:

• 1 cup of peas 
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or mint for garnish (optional)

For the Vegetables:

• 1/2 head of broccoli 
• 1/2 head romanesco
• 1/2 head cauliflower 
• 1 medium potato
• 1 medium sweet potato 
• 1 tbsp olive oil 
• 1 tbsp raw cane sugar 
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Salmon and peacream

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the potatoes: Wash and peel the regular and sweet potatoes. Cut them into bite-sized cubes. Toss them with 1/2 tbsp olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Roast them on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, or until crispy on the outside and tender inside.
3. Prepare the broccoli, romanesco, and cauliflower: Break the broccoli, romanesco, and cauliflower into small florets. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them evenly on the baking sheet with the potatoes. Roast for another 15-20 minutes until they are lightly browned and tender. In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle with raw cane sugar for a subtle caramelized flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the Salmon

1. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness. You can also finish the salmon in the oven if you prefer to cook it fully through.
3. Add fresh thyme and a splash of vegetable bouillon for extra flavor while cooking.

Step 3: Making the Pea cream

1. In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until softened and golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Pour in the cream, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Blend the mixture using an immersion blender (or regular blender) until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more cream or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. On each plate, spoon a generous portion of the creamy pea sauce.
2. Place the salmon fillet on top of the sauce, and surround it with the roasted vegetables.
3. Garnish with fresh thyme, basil, or mint, and serve immediately. You can also drizzle a little more olive oil over the vegetables for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations 

Serving Suggestions:

• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay would complement the richness of the salmon and the creamy peas beautifully.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Dessert: End your Valentine’s Day meal with a light dessert such as a berry sorbet, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or a small serving of crème brûlée.

Variations:

• Vegan Version: Swap the salmon for a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also use coconut cream in the pea sauce for a dairy-free version.
• Add a Touch of Spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the pea cream or sprinkle some smoked paprika on the roasted vegetables.
• Roasted Garlic: Add roasted garlic to the vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights

This meal isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling great. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:

• Calories: 585 per serving
• Protein: 34.08g per serving (salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein)
• Fiber: 9.56g per serving (thanks to the veggies and peas)
• Carbs: 31.68g per serving (a good mix of simple and complex carbs from potatoes and vegetables)
• Healthy Fats: 32.76g per serving (mostly from the salmon and olive oil)
• Sugars: 11.28g per serving (mostly natural sugars from the vegetables)
• Sodium: 1.88g per serving (balanced for flavor and health)

Why not treat yourself and your other half this Valentine’s Day to a delicious and comforting dish? Try our Salmon with Pea Cream and make your celebration even more special! It will be on the menu next week—don’t miss it!

Bon appétit!