Spicy Salmon with Nut Salsa: A Flavor-Packed Dinner Recipe

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Introduction

When you want a dinner that’s bold, vibrant, and bursting with textures, Spicy Salmon with Nut Salsa is the answer. This dish brings together perfectly seared salmon fillets topped with a crunchy, zesty nut salsa that balances heat, freshness, and richness in every bite.

👉 Looking for another bold and comforting dinner idea? Check out our Chicken Korma Recipe for a creamy and spiced alternative.

Table of Contents

What makes this recipe special

This dish combines protein-rich salmon with a salsa that’s unlike any you’ve tried before—featuring toasted nuts, chili, lime, and fresh herbs. The result? A balance of crunch, spice, and zest that makes salmon shine like never before.

Ideal occasions to serve it

  • Weeknight dinners when you need something quick yet exciting
  • Dinner parties where you want to impress guests with a gourmet touch
  • Meal prep for a healthy, flavor-packed lunch the next day

Ingredients

Required ingredients

IngredientQuantity
Salmon fillets4 (6 oz each)
Olive oil2 tbsp
Garlic cloves, minced2
Chili flakes or fresh red chili1 tsp (or to taste)
Salt & black pepperTo taste
Lime juice2 tbsp

Nut Salsa:

  • ½ cup roasted almonds (or cashews)
  • ¼ cup walnuts
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 red chili, finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt

Optional additions or substitutes

  • Swap salmon for trout or cod for variety.
  • Add diced mango or avocado to the nut salsa for extra creaminess.
  • Use pistachios instead of walnuts for a sweeter flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
  2. Coarsely chop the nuts and combine them with lime zest, chili, herbs, olive oil, and salt to make the nut salsa.

Cooking process

  1. Warm olive oil in a skillet set over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear salmon fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through.
  3. Spoon nut salsa generously over salmon before serving.
  4. Finish with an extra squeeze of lime.
cooking spicy salmon with nut salsa
Salmon fillets searing in olive oil with garlic and chili.

👉 Want a cozy dish for colder days? Try our Butternut Squash Soup for a warming starter.

Expert Tips and Variations

Cooking tips from chefs

  • Use skin-on salmon fillets for crispy texture.
  • Don’t overcook salmon—remove it when slightly opaque in the center for best flavor.
  • Toast nuts lightly before chopping for deeper flavor.

Variations based on dietary needs

  • Low-carb/keto: Keep salsa nut-heavy and skip any fruit additions.
  • Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
  • Gluten-free: Completely gluten-free as written.

Nutritional Info & Storage

Calories and macros (per serving)

  • Calories: ~390 kcal
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Fiber: 3 g

Storage instructions

  • Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat salmon gently in a skillet; salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for 1 day.
final spicy salmon with nut salsa
The perfect salmon dinner with nut salsa topping.

👉 Looking for a sweet ending? Try our Dark Chocolate Ganache Tart for a decadent dessert pairing.

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FAQs

1. Can I make the nut salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance, but add lime juice just before serving to keep it fresh.

2. What nuts work best for salsa?

Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios work beautifully. Avoid softer nuts like pecans as they can turn soggy.

3. Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing?

Absolutely! Grilled salmon adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with nut salsa.

4. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat, but you can adjust chili levels to taste.

5. What sides go well with spicy salmon?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a light green salad complement it perfectly.

Conclusion

Spicy Salmon with Nut Salsa is a restaurant-worthy dish you can easily make at home. With its crispy salmon, zesty chili kick, and crunchy nut topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try this week and let us know how you enjoyed it!

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spicy salmon with nut salsa recipe

Spicy Salmon with Nut Salsa


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  • Author: ava salmon
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Spicy Salmon with Nut Salsa is a bold, healthy dinner featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets topped with a crunchy, zesty nut salsa. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish packed with flavor and texture.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (or fresh red chili, chopped)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp lime juice

Nut Salsa:

  • ½ cup roasted almonds (or cashews)
  • ¼ cup walnuts
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 red chili, finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
  2. Prepare nut salsa: chop nuts and mix with lime zest, chili, herbs, olive oil, and salt.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Sear salmon fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and just cooked through.
  5. Spoon nut salsa generously over salmon before serving.
  6. Finish with a squeeze of lime and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use skin-on salmon for extra crispiness.
  • Toast nuts before chopping for more flavor.
  • Add diced mango or avocado to the salsa for a twist.
  • Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with salsa
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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