Grilled Salmon with Fig Mustard & Lentils

Grilled Salmon with Fig Mustard & Lentils is a balanced and satisfying dish that brings together smoky, succulent salmon, earthy lentils, and a sweet-tangy fig mustard glaze. Elegant yet wholesome, this entrée is perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals when you want something nourishing with gourmet flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-rich: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon and protein and fiber from the lentils.
• Elegant flavor pairing: The sweetness of fig preserves and tang of mustard balance the savory lentils and grilled fish.
• Simple yet refined: A dish that’s both easy to prepare and worthy of entertaining.
• Gluten-free: Naturally free of gluten without sacrificing texture or taste.
• Great for meal prep: Lentils and sauce can be made ahead and assembled just before serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• salmon fillets
• green lentils
• vegetable broth
• olive oil
• salt and pepper
• fig preserves
• Dijon mustard
• balsamic vinegar

Directions

1. Cook the Lentils:

• Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
• In a saucepan, combine lentils with vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
• Drain any excess liquid and set aside, seasoning with salt if needed.

2. Prepare the Fig Mustard Sauce:

• In a small saucepan over low heat, combine fig preserves, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar.
• Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and warmed through.
• Set aside, keeping warm for serving.

3. Grill the Salmon:

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Pat salmon fillets dry and brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
• Grill salmon, skin side down first if applicable, for 4–5 minutes per side or until opaque and flaking easily with a fork.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Spoon a generous portion of lentils onto each plate.
• Place a grilled salmon fillet over the lentils.
• Drizzle fig mustard sauce over the top of the salmon.
• Serve immediately with optional greens or roasted vegetables on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Lentil upgrades: Add sautéed shallots, garlic, or chopped herbs to the lentils for extra depth.
• Pan-seared option: If a grill is unavailable, cook salmon in a hot skillet for 4–5 minutes per side.
• Spiced twist: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or rosemary to the fig sauce for added dimension.
• Vegan alternative: Substitute grilled portobello mushrooms for salmon and follow the same serving method.
• Add a crunch: Top with toasted walnuts or pistachios for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, separately reheating the lentils and salmon to avoid overcooking the fish. The fig mustard sauce can also be reheated briefly over low heat or served at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, rinse and drain them well, and warm with a bit of broth or olive oil before serving.

What kind of fig preserves work best?

Use high-quality fig jam or preserves without added artificial sweeteners. A chunky or smooth style both work well.

Can I bake the salmon instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, the dish is naturally dairy-free.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A light arugula salad, roasted carrots, or grilled asparagus complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently before serving.

Is Dijon mustard essential?

Dijon adds the necessary tang and depth, but you can use whole-grain mustard for texture or a milder mustard if preferred.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

Try a dry Rosé, Pinot Noir, or a lightly oaked Chardonnay.

How do I keep the salmon from sticking to the grill?

Brush the grill grates with oil or use a fish grilling basket. Ensure the grill is properly preheated.

Can I use brown lentils instead of green?

Yes, but be cautious not to overcook them as they break down more quickly.

Conclusion

Grilled Salmon with Fig Mustard & Lentils is a vibrant, nutritious dish that marries classic Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist. Its balanced blend of textures and tastes—earthy lentils, flaky grilled salmon, and tangy-sweet fig mustard—makes it a standout choice for any season. Whether you’re hosting or simply enjoying a refined dinner at home, this dish offers impressive flavor with minimal effort.

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• Author: Mari
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Grilled Salmon with Fig Mustard & Lentils is a flavorful and hearty dish that pairs smoky, perfectly grilled salmon with protein-rich lentils and a sweet-tangy fig mustard sauce. This salmon recipe is ideal for healthy weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining.

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Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets

• 1 cup green lentils

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup fig preserves

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

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Instructions

1. Cook Lentils:
   Rinse green lentils under cold water.
   In a saucepan, bring lentils and vegetable broth to a simmer. Cook until tender, about 20–25 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare Fig Mustard Sauce:
   In a small saucepan, stir together fig preserves, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar.
   Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth and heated through. Set aside.

3. Grill Salmon:
   Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
   Brush salmon fillets lightly with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
   Grill each fillet for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until cooked to your preferred doneness.

4. Assemble the Dish:
   On each plate, spoon a generous serving of lentils.
   Place a grilled salmon fillet on top.
   Drizzle with warm fig mustard sauce and serve immediately.

Notes

You can substitute brown lentils or black lentils for variety. The fig mustard sauce also works beautifully with grilled chicken or tofu.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Contemporary