Salmon Confit in Olive Oil with Arugula Salad and Balsamic Vinegar

By altschiller

by Christian Delouvrier

Ingredients

• 4 cups light olive oil
• Bouquet Garni
• Four 6-ounce boneless, skinless Copper River salmon filets
• 1 1/2 pounds micro arugula, washed and patted dry
• Sel de Guerande to taste
• 4 teaspoons aged balsamic vinegar (see note)

Details

Servings 4
Adapted from epicurious.com

Preparation

Step 1

1. Combine the olive oil with the Bouquet Garni in a shallow, heavy-bottomed pan large enough to hold the salmon in a single layer over very low heat until the oil reaches 150°F on an instant-read thermometer.

2. Add the salmon and cook, at a constant temperature, for about 5 minutes or just until the salmon has begun to firm up. Using a slotted spatula, lift the salmon from the pan and place on a double layer of paper towels to drain.

3. Place a small mound of micro arugula in the center of each of four plates. Lay a piece of salmon on top of the greens on each plate. Sprinkle sel de Guerande over the salmon. Drizzle a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar over the salad and salmon on each plate and serve.

Note:
In the restaurant, I use 100-year-old balsamic vinegar because of its syrupy consistency and deep flavor. If using balsamic vinegar other than that aged for 100 years (most good balsamics are aged from 5 to 10 years), place 8 teaspoons in a small saucepan over medium-low heat and slowly reduce by half. Cool and use as above.