Norwegian Smoked Trout Salad with Grilled Watercress

Introduction

This Norwegian Smoked Trout Salad is a deliciously fresh and earthy winter dish with deeply flavorful hot-smoked trout and fire-grilled watercress. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a perfect balance of smokiness and crispness, bringing out the best flavors of each ingredient. The smokiness of the trout beautifully complements the charred, slightly peppery watercress, while a homemade dressing ties everything together for a light yet deeply satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 fillets hot-smoked Norwegian trout
• 1 large bunch fresh watercress
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build up; the grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Grill the Watercress

1. Lightly brush the watercress with melted butter.
2. Place it on the outer area of the Arteflame cooktop.
3. Grill for about 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and wilted.

Step 3: Warm the Smoked Trout

1. Place the smoked trout fillets on the outer area of the cooktop.
2. Warm them gently for about 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they do not dry out.
3. Once warmed, flake the trout into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

1. Mix the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Whisk until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Place the grilled watercress on a serving platter.
2. Top with flaked smoked trout, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, toasted walnuts, and goat cheese.
3. Drizzle with the homemade dressing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor.
2. Pair with your favorite rustic bread or light white wine.

Tips

• Use high-quality Norwegian smoked trout for the best flavor.
• Remove meat from the grill when its internal temperature is 15°F below the desired level.
• Use butter instead of olive oil for grilling—it enhances the flavor.

Variations

1. Citrus Twist: Add orange or grapefruit segments for a refreshing zing.
2. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with a hot honey glaze.
3. Nutty Flavor: Substitute walnuts with toasted almonds or pistachios.
4. Herb Infusion: Add fresh dill, parsley, or chives for an herbal boost.
5. Cheese Upgrade: Swap the goat cheese for feta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Norwegian Smoked Trout Salad with Grilled Watercress is an earthy, flavorful, and well-balanced dish. Utilizing the Arteflame grill gives each ingredient the perfect texture and taste, making this an ideal winter salad. Whether you're making it as a light meal or a sophisticated appetizer, this salad is sure to impress.

Best Pairings

• Rustic sourdough bread
• A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc
• Grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts