Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

This Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli is a bold and elegant recipe, which uses fresh salmon fillets and roasted red peppers. It’s a restaurant-quality dish, ready in about 20 minutes.

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Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6–8 ounces each, skin-on or skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Spicy Red Pepper Aioli:

  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or freshly roasted)
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

How To Make Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

  1. Blend the aioli: In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until serving.
  2. Prep the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes without moving. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until done to your liking.
  4. Serve: Transfer the salmon to plates. Add a dollop or drizzle of the spicy red pepper aioli on top or on the side.
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

Recipe Tips

  • Can I use skinless salmon? Yes, but searing skin-on adds extra texture and flavor.
  • How to know when salmon is done: The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
  • Can I make the aioli ahead? Yes, prepare it up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate.
  • Is there a substitute for cayenne? Try smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for milder heat.
  • Best pan for searing salmon: A heavy skillet like cast iron or stainless steel works best.

What To Serve With Seared Salmon

This flavorful salmon pairs well with:

  • Roasted potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower
  • Steamed asparagus or green beans
  • A fresh garden or arugula salad
  • Lemon couscous or wild rice
  • Crusty bread with olive oil dip
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli
Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

How To Store Seared Salmon

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying out.

Aioli: Store aioli in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 1g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I grill the salmon instead?
Yes, grill over medium-high heat for a similar result.

How spicy is the aioli?
It has a mild kick; adjust cayenne for more or less heat.

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.

What can I use instead of mayo in the aioli?
Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream are great substitutes.

Try More Recipes:

Ina Garten Seared Salmon With Spicy Red Pepper Aioli

Recipe by SarahCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

410

kcal

A fast and flavorful salmon dish served with a zesty red pepper aioli—perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

  • For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • For the Aioli:
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Blend all aioli ingredients until smooth. Chill until ready.
  • Pat salmon dry and season both sides.
  • Heat oil in skillet. Sear salmon 4–5 mins skin-side down, then 2–3 mins on other side.
  • Plate salmon and serve with aioli on top or side.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.