A Sea-Inspired Twist: Elevating Your Thanksgiving with a Seafood Dish

 

 Thanksgiving is synonymous with tradition, and for many, that means a grand turkey at the center of the table. But what if you crave something a little different, a touch of elegance, or perhaps cater to guests who prefer flavors from the ocean? Introducing a beautiful seafood dish to your Thanksgiving spread can be a delightful and unexpected twist, offering a lighter yet equally celebratory option.

While it might seem unconventional, incorporating seafood into Thanksgiving is not without precedent. Coastal regions often feature local catches in their holiday meals, and historical accounts suggest that early American settlers likely enjoyed seafood as part of their autumnal feasts. A well-chosen seafood dish can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, hearty flavors typically found on a Thanksgiving table.

Why Seafood for Thanksgiving?

Adding seafood offers several compelling benefits: it provides an alternative protein for guests who don't eat poultry, it lightens the overall meal while still feeling luxurious, and it introduces a new flavor profile that can truly elevate your spread. A carefully crafted seafood dish can stand proudly alongside traditional sides, creating a memorable culinary experience for everyone.

Today, we're going to make Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Roasted Asparagus, a dish that is both impressive and simple to prepare, ensuring you still have plenty of time for other Thanksgiving preparations.

Here's what you'll need and how to make it:

(Recipe)

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs salmon fillet, skin on or off
• 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 large lemon, plus extra slices for garnish
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1.  Preheat Oven & Prep Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat the salmon fillet dry with paper towels.

2.  Prepare Herb Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, fresh parsley, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper.

3.  Marinate Salmon: Place the salmon fillet on the prepared baking sheet. Pour about two-thirds of the lemon-herb mixture over the salmon, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the asparagus.

4.  Prep Asparagus: Toss the trimmed asparagus spears with the remaining one-third of the lemon-herb mixture on the same baking sheet, around the salmon.

5.  Bake: Arrange lemon slices over the salmon fillet. Bake for 12-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your salmon and your desired doneness. The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the asparagus should be tender-crisp.

6.  Serve: Carefully transfer the baked salmon and roasted asparagus to a serving platter. Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley, and serve immediately.

This Lemon Herb Baked Salmon with Roasted Asparagus is a fantastic way to add a touch of fresh, bright flavor to your Thanksgiving feast. It's elegant, healthy, and offers a delicious alternative that will be appreciated by all your guests. Happy Thanksgiving!