Illawarra Breeze

Background and Description

The Illawarra Breeze is a dish that captures the essence of coastal Australia, particularly inspired by the Illawarra region known for its breathtaking escarpments and rich biodiversity. This dish is a representation of the vibrant flavors one would experience while soaking in the natural beauty of Illawarra.

Originating from the melding of traditional Aboriginal recipes and modern culinary techniques, the Illawarra Breeze brings forward a fresh and aromatic palette that is quintessential to this renowned tourist destination. It aims to mimic the refreshing sensation of the coastal winds, boasting crisp textures and zesty notes.

Initially popularized by local cafes in the early 2000s, this dish has now become a frequent choice for visitors who yearn to experience a fresh take on traditional Australian cuisine. Let us delve into the ingredients and the culinary process involved in creating the Illawarra Breeze.

Ingredients

• Grilled Salmon
• Rocket Leaves
• Cherry Tomatoes
• Lemon Juice
• Olive Oil
• Sea Salt
• Ground Pepper
• Quinoa
• Avocado
• Feta Cheese
• Fresh Basil
• Pine Nuts

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa

Start by thoroughly rinsing quinoa under cold water. This helps in removing its natural coating, saponin, which can taste bitter. Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves combining it with water in a 1:2 ratio and bringing it to a boil before simmering until the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Step 2: Grilling the Salmon

For the grilled salmon, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the salmon with sea salt and ground pepper. Grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the salmon is just cooked through. The ideal time for cooking can be checked using a cooking timer.

Step 3: Assembling the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine rocket leaves, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, and cooled quinoa. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then toss gently to combine.

Step 4: Garnish and Finish

Top the salad with slices of grilled salmon. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves. Adjust seasoning with additional sea salt and ground pepper as needed.

Enjoying the Illawarra Breeze

The Illawarra Breeze is best enjoyed outside on a warm sunny day, ideally with a gentle sea breeze. Pairing it with a crisp white wine enhances the refreshing essence of this dish. Given its flavorsome and healthy ingredients, it is ideal for those looking to indulge in a guilt-free culinary experience.

One of the best parts of enjoying this meal is appreciating the simplicity of each ingredient while marveling at how they come together to form a wholesome dish representative of the Illawarra region's beauty. Dive into this delightful experience and transport yourself to the famed Australian coasts, savoring every bite of the ocean's bounty.