MendoQueen Wasabi Medley

Introduction to the MendoQueen Wasabi Medley

The MendoQueen Wasabi Medley is a vibrant and exquisitely flavorful dish that combines the spicy kick of wasabi with a rich medley of fresh ingredients. Inspired by the lush coastlines and verdant landscapes of Mendocino, this recipe celebrates both land and sea through its harmonious blend of elements. Mendocino, renowned for its succulent produce and high-quality seafood, offers a perfect backdrop for creating this dish, which has been a staple of the region's cuisine for years.

Ingredients for the MendoQueen Wasabi Medley

1. Salmon - 2 fillets
2. Wasabi paste - 2 tablespoons
3. Soy sauce - 1/4 cup
4. Sushi rice - 1 cup
5. Avocado - 1, sliced
6. Cucumber - 1, julienned
7. Seaweed sheets - 2
8. Sesame seeds - 2 tablespoons
9. Pickled ginger - 2 tablespoons
10. Lemon - 1, juiced
11. Extra virgin olive oil - 3 tablespoons
12. Salt - to taste
13. Pepper - to taste

Preparing the Ingredients

Step 1: Preparing the Salmon

Begin by rinsing the salmon fillets under cold water, and pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the fillets in a shallow dish. In a small bowl, mix together the wasabi paste and soy sauce until well combined. Pour this mixture over the salmon, ensuring they are well-coated on all sides. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly under cold tap water until the water runs clear. Place the rinsed rice in a rice cooker and add the appropriate amount of water according to your rice cooker's instructions. Once the rice is cooked, let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables

• Avocado: Slice the avocado in half, remove the pit, and peel the skin. Slice it thinly and sprinkle with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Cucumber: Wash and peel the cucumber, then cut into thin, julienned strips.

Assembly and Cooking Process

Step 4: Preparing the Salmon

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet.
• Cook for about 4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Preparing the Seaweed and Sesame Seeds

• Lightly toast the sesame seeds in a separate dry pan over medium heat until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
• Meanwhile, gently warm the seaweed sheets over the flame of a gas stove or in the oven until slightly crisp.

Plating the MendoQueen Wasabi Medley

Step 6: Assembling the Dish

On a large serving platter, arrange a bed of rice. Lay the cooked salmon fillets on top of the rice. Surround the salmon with the sliced avocado and cucumber, then sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the entire dish.

Tuck pieces of seaweed around the edge of the platter and garnish with pickled ginger. Drizzle the dish with the remaining olive oil and the juice of a fresh lemon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoying Your Meal

The MendoQueen Wasabi Medley is best enjoyed immediately, while the salmon is still warm. Pair this dish with a chilled bottle of white wine or sake to complement the bold flavors of wasabi and fresh produce. Use a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing in all steps, ensuring the dish retains its intended texture and flavor profile. Relish this culinary experience that brings the essence of Mendocino into your home.