Eat good and go outside!

This Thai Grilled Salmon features a wonderful blend of the 'four big Thai tastes': spicy, salty, sweet and sour. Made with fresh herbs and spices, this salmon simply sings with flavor while never overwelmoing the naturally delicious flavor of the fish. The marinade is a variation of traditional Thai 'magic paste' - a special blend of fresh herbs and spices that will simply 'wow' your tastebuds. It works beautifully with salmon as well as other types of fish. If you enjoy true Thai flavors, give this dish a go!

Ingredients:

• 2-3 salmon fillets or steaks
• MARINADE:
• 1/2 cup chopped coriander/cilantro, leaves and stems
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp. ground white pepper (OR whole white peppercorns if using pestle & mortar)
• 1+1/2 Tbsp. fish sauce
• 2 Tbsp. coconut oil OR other vegetable oil
• SIDE SAUCE/CONDIMENT:
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 Tbsp. chopped coriander/cilantro
• 1/2 tsp. ground white pepper
• 3-4 cloves garlic
• 2 Tbsp. fish sauce
• 1-2 chilies (Serrano or Jalapeño), OR ¼ to ¾ tsp. dried crushed chili (chili flakes)
• 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp. coconut milk

Preparation:

1. Place all 'marinade' ingredients in a food processor or mini chopper. Process well to create a fragrant Thai spice paste (a pestle & mortar can also be used to make this paste).
2. Rinse salmon pieces and pat dry. Place a bowl and slather the marinade/paste all over the fish, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Marinate 10 minutes or up to 24 hours.
3. To make the side sauce, simply combine everything together in a cup, stirring well to dissolve the sugar. Then taste-test it, looking for a tangy flavor that is a balance between sweet, sour, spicy and salty. Add more lime juice if too salty or sweet for your taste. If too spicy, add more coconut milk. Set aside.
4. Heat up your grill and brush with a little vegetable oil. Grill the salmon, allowing each piece to cook several minutes before disturbing/turning (this will prevent flesh from tearing). Baste the first time you turn it with some of the leftover marinade. Salmon is cooked when inner flesh is no longer translucent.
5. Serve the salmon with rice or salad, plus the sauce on the side (note: this sauce is usually served at room temperature).