This impressive giada olive oil–poached salmon feels like a hug in a bowl—it’s that good. It’s made with simple ingredients like whole fennel seeds, fresh rosemary sprigs, and olive oil, and the flavors are just incredible.

It takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to prepare, which gives me just enough time to set the mood with cozy vibes while it’s cooking. It’s my favorite main course because it’s elegant and so easy to make. I like to serve it with lemon wedges—it never disappoints.

Recipe Ingredients

• 4 skinless center-cut salmon fillets (about 5 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon whole fennel seeds
• 3 cups olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
• 3 fresh rosemary sprigs
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How To Make Giada OLIVE OIL–POACHED SALMON

Prep and Toast Aromatics

1. Get Salmon Ready: Take the salmon out of the fridge 40 minutes before cooking. Let it relax, we’ll get to it soon!
2. Toast Aromatics: Heat a medium skillet just large enough for the salmon, over medium heat. Add fennel seeds and toast for 2 minutes, until fragrant.

Cook the Salmon

1. Create the Poaching Liquid: Add the oil, garlic, rosemary, and bay leaf to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the aromatics steep in the oil for 10 minutes.
2. Poach the Salmon: Reduce heat to low, use a thermometer to check the oil reaches 175°F. Season salmon with salt, slide into the warm oil, and poach for 15-20 minutes until opaque and firm.
3. Serve and Store: Use a spatula to remove salmon, drain on paper towels. Serve with lemon wedges, or store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Recipe Tips

• Flavor Enhancement: Add some citrusy brightness to the poaching liquid by squeezing in a slice of lemon or orange, and watch as it elevates the delicate flavors of the salmon to new heights.
• Make It a Meal: Transform this dish into a complete meal by serving the olive oil-poached salmon with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness.
• Texture Contrast: Enhance the dish’s texture by topping the salmon with toasted almonds or pistachios, adding a satisfying crunch that complements the silky smoothness of the fish.
• Alternative Cooking Methods: Try alternative cooking methods like grilling or pan-searing the salmon if you prefer a crisper exterior, and don’t forget to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly for perfect results.
• Poaching Liquid Variations: Experiment with different poaching liquid flavors by adding aromatics like garlic, ginger, or basil, which will infuse the salmon with complex and aromatic flavors that will elevate the dish to new heights.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Giada Recipes:

• Giada Grilled Pineapple With Nutella
• Giada Lamb Osso Buco
• Giada De Laurentiis Ziti Stufati