Fjord Feast

Introduction to Fjord Feast

The Fjord Feast is a culinary adventure inspired by the cold, clear waters and breathtaking landscapes of Norway's fjords. Embracing the abundance of seafood, fresh produce, and wild herbs, this feast brings forth the rustic charm of Scandinavian cooking while celebrating the earth's natural flavors. As we journey into the preparation of this meal, each bite will transport you to the serene and majestic fjords.

Ingredients

• Salmon - 2 pounds, fresh and wild-caught
• Potatoes - 1 pound, new or fingerling
• Dill - A small bunch, fresh
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Coarse Sea Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Unsalted Butter - 3 tablespoons
• Asparagus - 1 bunch
• Pearl Onions - Half a pound
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Sour Cream - Half a cup
• Horseradish - 1 tablespoon, grated

Preparation Steps

Mise en Place

Begin by gathering and preparing your ingredients. This is crucial in creating a seamless cooking experience:

• Carefully rinse the salmon under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
• Wash the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
• Trim the ends of the asparagus and peel any tough outer layers if needed.
• Peel the pearl onions, leaving them whole.
• Mince the garlic. Keep the other seasonings handy.

Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Salmon

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), a critical step to ensure proper cooking timer management.
2. On a large baking dish, place the salmon fillet skin-side down.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the fish, season with sea salt and black pepper, then scatter some fresh dill over the top.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and place a few pats of butter on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, paying close attention to the cooking timer, until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Cooking the Vegetables

1. While the salmon bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the potatoes. Cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes, ensuring you monitor the cooking timer.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the remaining butter. Add the pearl onions and sauté until they become translucent.
3. Add the asparagus and garlic, stirring to coat in the butter. Sauté until the asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the sautéed vegetables with the drained potatoes, mixing gently to incorporate all ingredients.

Preparing the Horseradish Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and horseradish until well combined. Adjust the seasoning with sea salt and pepper to your taste.

How to Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salmon alongside the vegetable medley on a large serving platter, garnishing with extra sprigs of fresh dill. Provide a generous dollop of horseradish sauce on the side for guests to add as desired. Enjoy this Fjord Feast with a crisp white wine or a refreshing aquavit cocktail, savoring the balance of flavors that echo the harmony and splendor of the fjord landscapes.