Weekend getaways, dining at a fancy restaurant and all that are definitely good ideas, but sometimes it’s fun to just invite your date over and whip them up something for dinner. Still, not everyone’s risotto would even remotely impress Gordon Ramsay. Some people are good at writing business proposals or whatever and some know the correct way to cut up a chicken- it is what it is. Still, you got ahead of yourself, invited her over (Yes, I’m addressing this post to the gentlemen. Mostly) the day is finally here and you’re on this blog looking for recipes that might help you get lucky. Lucky to not burn down the kitchen, I mean. First, calm down…you’re not yet screwed. Second, you can always call up a restaurant and get that fantastic garlic chilli prawn that you like and lay it out on the table then act like you made it- never mind how a date can totally go south when she finds out you lied. You can ignore her calls- but wait, you actually really like her (which is why you got ahead of yourself and invited her over in the first place). Maybe just head to your fridge and/or pantry and see what you can use to make as close a semblance of something edible.
I will however like to assume that you’re reading this in advance because you actually like to be prepared. So, whether it’s for a new person you’re trying to impress or for your long time girl, here is my simple salmon recipe that I hope you’ll be able to follow:
Time: 25 minutes
Note: An assertive fish like salmon can handle mustard’s bold flavor. Top the fish with parsley for freshness and breadcrumbs for crunch. For a fast, healthy dinner, I suggest serving it with this Mandarin Salad.
Game plan:
- Heat the oven to 218°C and arrange a rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat an area about the size of the fish with olive oil; set aside.
- Place the measured oil, mustard, and parsley in a small bowl and whisk to combine. Lay the salmon on the foil, skin side down, and season it generously with salt and pepper. Evenly spread the mustard mixture all over the top. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the mustard mixture until it’s completely covered, then gently pat to get the panko to adhere.
- Bake the fish for 12 to 15 minutes, then check for doneness. The center should spring back to the touch and the breadcrumbs should be golden brown. If it’s not ready, return the fish to the oven for a few minutes more. If the fish is ready but the breadcrumbs aren’t browned, broil about 2 minutes more or until golden brown.
PS: Wine is always a good idea. Save the beer for when you’ll be watching a game of football with the boys. Unless she really likes beer.
PPS: You could also try one of these:
Garlic Roast Chicken with Rosemary and Lemon Potatoes Recipe
