Mediterranean Diet Classic Gravlax

Experience the art of Mediterranean flavors with this Classic Gravlax recipe, a sophisticated twist on the traditional Nordic delicacy. This no-cook dish highlights the natural brilliance of fresh salmon, cured to perfection in an aromatic blend of coarse sea salt, sugar, lemon zest, and ground black pepper. Infused with the vibrant sweetness of fresh dill and a touch of olive oil, this gravlax embodies the heart-healthy principles of the Mediterranean diet. The preparation is simple yet rewarding, requiring just 15 minutes of hands-on time before the curing process transforms the salmon into delicately seasoned slices. Perfect for entertaining, serve this buttery, melt-in-your-mouth gravlax atop rye bread, alongside capers, or drizzled with mustard sauce. A must-try centerpiece for a Mediterranean-inspired brunch or as an elegant appetizer, this recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh salmon fillet (skin-on)
• 1 cup coarse sea salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 bunch fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the salmon fillet and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure there are no scales or bones.

Step 2

In a small mixing bowl, combine the coarse sea salt, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and ground black pepper.

Step 3

Prepare a large piece of plastic wrap or cheesecloth on your work surface. Sprinkle a thin layer of the salt-sugar mixture over the wrap.

Step 4

Lay half of the fresh dill directly on top of this thin layer of the salt-sugar mixture.

Step 5

Place the salmon fillet, skin side down, on top of the dill.

Step 6

Cover the salmon with the remaining salt-sugar mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed over the flesh.

Step 7

Spread a generous quantity of fresh dill over the top covering the entire flesh.

Step 8

Drizzle olive oil evenly over the salmon fillet to help with the curing process.

Step 9

Wrap the salmon tightly in the plastic wrap or cheesecloth, ensuring none of the mixture spills out. Place it in a baking dish to catch any drippings.

Step 10

Place a heavy dish or weights on top of the wrapped salmon to press it slightly, which will help in the curing process.

Step 11

Refrigerate the salmon for 48 to 72 hours. Every 12 hours, check the salmon, drain any liquid that accumulates, and if needed, redistribute the curing mixture.

Step 12

After curing, unwrap the salmon and brush off the excess seasoning and dill. Gently rinse under cold water and pat dry.

Step 13

Using a sharp knife, slice the salmon thinly at an angle. Serve chilled with your choice of accompaniments like rye bread, capers, or mustard sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1436.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2922.0

Total Fat 146.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 32.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 571.5mg	0%
Sodium 92510.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 209.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 3.8g	0%
Total Sugars 200.2g
Protein 201.8g	0%

Vitamin D 4771.8IU	0%
Calcium 226.0mg	0%
Iron 8.7mg	0%
Potassium 3729.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.5%

Protein: 27.3%

Carbs: 28.2%