Sesame Salmon Fingerling Caprese

Category: Recipes the Whole Family Will Love

This vibrant combination features pan-seared sesame-glazed salmon, perfectly tender fingerling potatoes roasted with paprika, rosemary and dill, and a classic caprese salad topped with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Each ingredient is thoughtfully seasoned for maximum flavor, with the salmon marinated in coconut aminos and sesame oil, then finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The potatoes are crisped in the oven, while the salad is drizzled with olive oil and a touch of balsamic. Ideal for anyone who enjoys a fresh yet hearty meal, this trio delivers color, texture, and a satisfying variety of tastes.

A woman with a smile on her face.
Created By Melanie Carter
Updated on Sat, 28 Jun 2025 16:05:53 GMT
A plate of food with a pan-seared sesame salmon, baked paprika fingerling potatoes and caprese salad. Pin
A plate of food with a pan-seared sesame salmon, baked paprika fingerling potatoes and caprese salad. | mellierecipes.com

This trio of sesame salmon, roasted fingerling potatoes, and caprese salad makes for a colorful dinner full of bright flavors and satisfying textures. The salmon cooks up juicy and savory thanks to a simple marinade, while the potatoes are crispy and loaded with herbs. I love how easily the caprese salad adds a fresh punch to the plate – this meal comes together fast but feels special enough for guests.

Ingredients

  • Salmon fillet: provides healthy omega three fats and cooks quickly look for wild caught for best quality
  • Coconut aminos: gives a salty savory note choose low sodium for less salt
  • Sesame oil: brings deep nutty flavor opt for toasted for stronger aroma
  • Garlic salt: delivers instant seasoning to the fish and eliminates chopping
  • Black pepper: for warmth and a hint of heat grind fresh if possible
  • Sesame seeds: add crunch and a pretty finish use white or black seeds
  • Fingerling potatoes: become crisp on the outside and fluffy inside small firm potatoes work best
  • Paprika: brings gentle smokiness try sweet or smoked versions
  • Black pepper: for mild heat always use freshly cracked if available
  • Garlic powder: deepens flavor without extra prep
  • Salt: brings out the best in the potatoes choose kosher or sea salt
  • Dill weed: adds freshness dried or fresh both work
  • Dried rosemary: perfumes the potatoes with woodsy flavor crumble it for even coverage
  • Olive oil: helps roast the potatoes evenly go for extra virgin for the flavor

Caprese Salad

  • Fresh tomatoes: are sweet and juicy choose ripe ones with vibrant color
  • Fresh mozzarella: brings creamy silkiness slice thick for a satisfying bite
  • Fresh basil: layers in herbal brightness look for firm fragrant leaves
  • Olive oil: adds luscious mouthfeel and ties all flavors together use your best bottle
  • Balsamic glaze or vinegar: for tangy pop and sweetness glaze gives thicker texture
  • Salt and pepper: heighten every element use flaky salt and freshly ground black pepper for a finishing touch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Salmon:
Pat the salmon completely dry with paper towels so the marinade can cling and crisp properly. In a mixing bowl stir together the sesame oil coconut aminos garlic salt and black pepper until combined. Lay the salmon fillet in this mixture coating all sides evenly. Let this sit at least thirty minutes if you can for deeper flavor.
Roast the Potatoes:
Scrub and quarter the fingerling potatoes. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil paprika garlic powder black pepper salt dill and rosemary. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a foil lined baking sheet. Roast in the oven at four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen minutes or until golden and crispy on the edges.
Sear the Salmon:
Heat a nonstick pan with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Set the salmon fillet skin side up and leave undisturbed for about four minutes so it gets a good crust on the surface. Carefully turn and sear each side for twenty to thirty seconds then flip to the skin side and finish cooking for another four minutes. Check for doneness by testing with a fork or using a thermometer which should read one hundred thirty to one hundred thirty five degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part. Sprinkle sesame seeds over top right before serving.
Prepare the Caprese Salad:
Slice ripe tomatoes into thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a plate alternating with slices of fresh mozzarella and whole leaves of basil. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze or vinegar over everything. Finish with a generous pinch of salt and several turns of black pepper right before eating.
A plate of food with a piece of fish, potatoes, and tomatoes. Pin
A plate of food with a piece of fish, potatoes, and tomatoes. | mellierecipes.com

The coconut aminos in this dish made me a believer in how umami rich a naturally gluten free sauce can be. My kids jump at the crispy potatoes and caprese salad every single time so it quickly became a summer staple in our house.

Storage Tips

Store leftover salmon and potatoes in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days for best texture. Reheat the salmon gently on low to avoid drying it out. Caprese salad is best freshly prepared but you can assemble everything but the basil and dressing up to three hours ahead and add those right before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have coconut aminos substitute low sodium soy sauce or tamari. Sweet potatoes work in place of fingerlings and for the caprese salad you can try burrata or feta if mozzarella is not available. No fresh basil Leaves from flat leaf parsley or a sprinkling of dried Italian herbs can pinch hit in a hurry.

Serving Suggestions

This meal shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. Add cooked green beans or asparagus on the side for extra veggies. Sliced bread or quinoa makes a heartier plate if you want more carbs.

A plate of food with a pan-seared sesame salmon, baked paprika fingerling potatoes and caprese salad. Pin
A plate of food with a pan-seared sesame salmon, baked paprika fingerling potatoes and caprese salad. | mellierecipes.com

Cultural and Historical Context

Sesame salmon draws a bit of Asian inspiration with coconut aminos and sesame oil while the potatoes and caprese salad echo Mediterranean roots. Combine them for a lively dinner that is both globally inspired and easy to love at home.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the salmon be marinated for best flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes. This allows the sesame oil and coconut aminos to fully infuse the fish.

→ What temperature should I roast the fingerling potatoes?

Roast the fingerling potatoes at 425°F, which gives them a crisp texture while keeping the insides tender.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked properly?

The salmon is ready when its internal temperature reaches 130°F–135°F, resulting in moist, flaky fish.

→ Can I substitute balsamic glaze for regular balsamic vinegar in the salad?

Yes, either balsamic glaze or regular balsamic vinegar works well, depending on your taste preference for sweetness and consistency.

→ What makes the caprese salad a good side for this meal?

The caprese salad brings a refreshing balance with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, complementing the rich salmon and roasted potatoes.

Sesame Salmon Fingerling Caprese

Sesame-glazed salmon with fingerling potatoes and caprese salad for a flavorful and balanced plate.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
25 minutes
Overall Cooking Time
45 minutes
Created By: Melanie Carter

Recipe Category: Family-Friendly Meals

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Style: Modern European

Result Amount: 2 Portions (2 salmon portions, side of potatoes, caprese salad)

Diet Preferences: Gluten-Free Option

What You’ll Need to Make This

→ Sesame Salmon

01 454 g skin-on salmon fillet
02 60 ml coconut aminos
03 22 ml toasted sesame oil
04 2.5 g garlic salt
05 0.5 g ground black pepper
06 1 g sesame seeds, for garnishing

→ Paprika Fingerling Potatoes

07 454 g fingerling potatoes
08 5 g sweet paprika
09 0.5 g ground black pepper
10 2 g garlic powder
11 2 g fine sea salt
12 0.5 g dried dill weed
13 1 g dried rosemary
14 22 ml extra-virgin olive oil

→ Caprese Salad

15 2 small ripe tomatoes
16 4–5 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
17 20 g fresh basil leaves
18 Fine sea salt, to taste
19 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
20 8 ml extra-virgin olive oil
21 5 ml balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar

How to Prepare

Step 01

Rinse the salmon fillet under cold water, then pat thoroughly dry with kitchen towels ensuring there is no surface moisture.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, coconut aminos, garlic salt, and black pepper. Place the salmon into the marinade, coating all sides. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, refrigerated if time allows.

Step 03

Heat 15 ml olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin side up and sear for 4 minutes. Carefully turn and sear the sides for 20–30 seconds each, then finish skin side down for another 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 54–57°C.

Step 04

Transfer the salmon to a plate and sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds.

Step 05

Preheat oven to 218°C. Cut the fingerling potatoes into quarters. Toss with olive oil, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, dill, and rosemary until thoroughly coated.

Step 06

Spread seasoned potatoes on a baking tray in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden and tender.

Step 07

Slice tomatoes into rounds. On a platter, alternately layer tomato slices with mozzarella and fresh basil leaves.

Step 08

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Extra Tips

  1. Patting salmon completely dry before cooking ensures a crisp exterior and even sear.
  2. Allowing the salmon to marinate enhances umami flavors and maintains juiciness.
  3. For best results, serve all components freshly assembled.

Tools Required

  • Non-stick frying pan
  • Baking tray
  • Mixing bowls
  • Chef's knife
  • Kitchen towels

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you’ve got specific concerns.
  • Contains fish and dairy.
  • Prepared in kitchen with potential sesame exposure.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, this info is purely for reference and isn’t meant to replace dietary guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 670
  • Fat Content: 37 grams
  • Carbohydrate Content: 36 grams
  • Protein Content: 48 grams