Last Updated on November 18, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury
Looking for a unique, healthy dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor? This Green Tea-Poached Salmon with Edamame Puree is a delicious way to enjoy nutritious ingredients in an elegant, balanced meal.
By poaching salmon in green tea, this recipe infuses subtle flavors and beneficial antioxidants directly into the fish, making it a great choice for those looking to shed some pounds without compromising taste.
Edamame puree adds creaminess and is rich in plant-based protein and fiber, perfect for satisfying hunger and keeping you fuller for longer. Topped with a drizzle of sesame oil, this recipe will make your meal memorable and nourishing.
Why Green Tea-Poached Salmon?
Green tea and salmon are a powerful duo for health. Green tea is widely celebrated for its antioxidants, specifically catechins, which help in burning fat.
Studies show that green tea can boost metabolism by 4-5%, helping the body burn calories more efficiently. Salmon, on the other hand, is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which can promote satiety and reduce cravings.
According to research, high-protein meals can boost metabolism by up to 15% and help reduce daily calorie intake.
In this recipe, we combine these ingredients in a way that’s easy on the palate, beautiful to serve, and great for weight loss. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Recipe: Green Tea-Poached Salmon with Edamame Puree
Ingredients:
For the Salmon
- 2 cups water
- 2-3 green tea bags (use high-quality green tea for best flavor)
- 2 salmon fillets (about 4-6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Edamame Puree
- 1 cup shelled edamame (frozen or fresh)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp water (as needed for consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Finishing Touch
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for garnish)
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Tea for Poaching
- Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a gentle simmer in a medium-sized saucepan.
- Add the green tea bags and let them steep for 3-4 minutes until the water is infused with a light green tea aroma and color. Remove the tea bags.
- Add a pinch of salt to the green tea base to season the salmon as it cooks.
Step 2: Poach the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillets gently into the green tea, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. If needed, add a little extra water to cover the fillets.
- Allow the salmon to poach for about 8-10 minutes on low heat, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should turn a light pink and be opaque but still tender.
- Carefully remove the salmon and set aside. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
Step 3: Make the Edamame Puree
- While the salmon is poaching, bring a small pot of water to a boil and add the shelled edamame. Boil for 3-4 minutes until the edamame is tender, then drain.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked edamame, minced garlic, olive oil, and a tablespoon of water. Blend until smooth. Add more water if needed to reach a creamy, spreadable consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and blend one more time to mix.
Step 4: Plate and Garnish
- To serve, spread a generous scoop of the edamame puree on each plate.
- Place a piece of green tea-poached salmon on top of the puree.
- Drizzle a small amount of sesame oil over each salmon fillet, if desired. This adds a rich, nutty flavor and a beautiful sheen.
- Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for added texture and color.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This dish is a nutritious powerhouse. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and even assist in weight loss.
Each serving of salmon (around 3 ounces) offers roughly 22 grams of protein, aiding in muscle maintenance and hunger control. Additionally, edamame is high in fiber, with about 8 grams per cup, which supports digestion and enhances feelings of fullness.
Poaching in green tea adds almost zero calories while infusing the fish with antioxidants. Green tea itself has been linked to reduced belly fat and better metabolism; studies show that those who regularly consume green tea burn about 100 more calories per day due to its catechins.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicy: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the edamame puree or garnish with thinly sliced red chili for some heat.
- Extra Citrus Zing: Add a dash of fresh lemon juice to the poaching liquid for a bright citrus undertone.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding a sprinkle of nori flakes or microgreens to give the dish an extra pop of flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Green Tea-Poached Salmon with Edamame Puree is much more than a meal—it’s a mindful way to nourish your body while keeping your health goals in focus.
Each component is thoughtfully selected to support weight loss, enhance metabolism, and offer maximum flavor with minimal calories. This dish is proof that eating well doesn’t mean compromising on flavor; instead, it’s about choosing ingredients that are as delicious as they are nutritious.
Enjoy this elegant dish at lunch or dinner, and feel great knowing you’re making a choice that benefits your wellness journey.