Wine lovers and enthusiasts, have you ever tried Sauvignon Blanc both as a drink and on your dish?
For those who are not familiar with Sauvignon Blanc, it is a white wine that found its origins in arguably France’s most famous wine region: Bordeaux.
Sauvignon Blanc, distinct from other white wines like Pinot Grigio/Gris, tastes a bit light and herbaceous rather than sweet. Actually, its flavor can vary depending on how ripe the grape fruits were when they were picked and extracted into wine. It can go from limey and tangy to peachy sweet.
I mentioned that it has an herbaceous essence to it because it kind of has an aftertaste of a pepper or grass. No worries, if you are not fond of an herb or a spice aroma because it goes away after some time.
On the other hand, the wine’s natural herb-like aroma can really enhance the flavor of any roasted herbed salmon dish because the flavors jive all together.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Speaking of salmon; we probably all know how delicious and nutritious this fish is. To better illustrate, here are some of its health benefits:
1. Jam-packed with omega-3 fatty acids and DHA
Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA are fats that have been shown to effectively lower blood pressure, reduce pain and inflammation, and prevent serious health problems like heart disease, cancer, and neurological disorders.
Wild-caught salmon are jam-packed with this healthful fats. Although, if I were you, I would prefer wild salmons than farmed one because the latter definitely has lesser nutrients.
2. Protein-rich
Protein is a building blocks of macronutrient (together with fats and carbohydrates). It plays a vital role in our body and overall health, especially if you are aiming to lose weight.
Our muscles need protein to increase and maintain its mass and reduce stored fats. It is also important in bone growth and brain development. Protein also aids fast recovery from pain, inflammation, and injury.
Did you know that a single serving of salmon (3.5 ounce) already provides a sufficient amount of protein recommended per day? Yes, it is true but before you stock up your fridge with salmon filets, you should first learn how long does cooked salmon last.
3. Great source of vitamin B-complex
Vitamin B-complex is composed of thiamin (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B4), B6, folic acid (B9), and B12. Each of these B vitamins has their own job but as a whole, it:
- Repairs DNA and nerve connections
- Helps regenerate nerve cells
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Lowers the risk of heart ailments and other serious health problems
- Converts food into energy
- Impacts brain development and functions
Salmon is also a great source of B vitamins especially B12, niacin, B6, and riboflavin. If you have nerve damage or inflammation, salmon should be a staple in your home.
4. Rich in potassium
Wild salmon has been found to be a good source of potassium. If you are not familiar with potassium, it is an essential mineral that regulates blood pressure.
Low potassium level can also affect your water retention state.
5. Pumped with antioxidants
Antioxidants are powerful compounds that can get rid of toxins and keep our body healthy and cancer-free. It is also believed that it has the ability to lessen the oxidation of the bad cholesterol and decrease the risks of heart problems. Plus, it makes your skin look soft, smooth, and youthful.
Guess what? Salmon filet is pumped up with antioxidant – alongside omega-3 fatty acid.
Now, let me share with you a delicious recipe combination of salmon and Sauvignon blanc.
Roasted Herbed Salmon with Sauvignon Blanc Recipe
Roasted herbed salmon is a classic. In restaurants, its sophisticated taste, look, and aroma make it look like it’s complicated to prepare but believe me when I say that it is not. Here’s a great roasted salmon recipe inspired by Ina Garten, is one of my favorites.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole (1- to 1 ½ pound) salmon fillet, washed and skinned
- 1/8 tsp. Kosher salt
- 1/8 – ¼ tsp. black pepper, preferably freshly ground
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, should be freshly squeezed
- 1/2 cup (4 pcs.) minced scallions, both the green and white parts
- 1/2 cup fresh dill, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced
- 1/4 cup Sauvignon blanc
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Preparations:
- The very first thing you should do is meticulously rinse the salmon fillet with running water whether it is store-bought or fresh from the market. This will help reduce the smell and remove preservatives (frozen), if any.
- Next, put the salmon fillet in a roasting dish. I usually use ceramic but you may also opt for glass or stainless-steel. Generously rub the salmon fillet with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk the freshly squeezed lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil together and drizzle it all over the fish fillet. Let it marinate for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix all the herbs: dill, scallions, and parsley. Divide this mixture into two. Sprinkle it over the salmon fillet then turn it over and scatter the rest of the herb mixture.
- Lastly, drizzle the fillet with Sauvignon blanc.
- Place the dish inside the preheated oven at 425°F for about 10 to 12 minutes.
Recipe Notes:
- If you prefer grilling rather than roasting, I suggest that you use Pinot Grigio over Sauvignon blanc for better flavor.
- To ensure that the salmon fillet is medium rare to medium-cooked, check if the center and thicker part is firm with the slightest pink line on the middle part.
- Once the salmon fillet is cooked, do not be tempted to slice it right away. This will ruin its flavor and texture. What you can do is cover it entirely with a piece of aluminum foil and let it sit and rest for at least 10 minutes.
My top picks: Sauvignon blanc Wines
When it comes to Sauvignon blanc, we can recommend the following:
1. Crocker & Starr Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
Made from Sauvignon blanc grapes grown in Napa Valley, fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks, oak wine barrels, and concrete vats. This one has a very fruity flavor as well as depth and complexity.
2. Jean-Michel Sorbe Reuilly Sauvignon Blanc, Loire
An elegant lemony taste for this French Sauv Blanc from the Loire valley.
3. Saint Clair Premium Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough
Saint Clair Family Estate is a winery making wines from New Zealand. Their Premium Sauv Blanc is typical of the Marlborough wine region, grassy and full of passion fruit tropical goodness.
Final thoughts…..
There you go, guys. I hope you enjoy the recipe and learn more about wines. Of all the recommended brands, I personally prefer the Crocker & Starr Sauvignon blanc because it is pure Sauvignon blanc and tastes great.
If you love the recipe, share it with your family and friends so they can enjoy it too.
This guest post was written by Sophia Gardner of doyoucookwithme.com exclusively for Social Vignerons.
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