Likama Roasted Salmon With Cabbage Salad

Published June 25, 2024

Recipe Overview

A vibrant, aromatic dish featuring herb-marinated salmon roasted to flaky perfection, paired with a zesty, crisp cabbage salad. This balanced meal highlights bold spices and fresh citrus, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

(Serves 2–4; adjust quantities for larger groups)

For the Likama Marinade (Salmon)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed

• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric

• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground coriander

• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)

• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (or 1 small whole nutmeg, freshly grated)

For the Salmon

• 1 (1½-pound) skin-on salmon fillet

For the Cabbage Salad Dressing & Vegetables

• 2½ tablespoons olive oil

• 1½ tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon honey

• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)

• 2 cups very thinly sliced green cabbage

• 2 cups very thinly sliced red cabbage

• 1 cup roughly chopped cilantro leaves + tender stems

• 2 tablespoons toasted almond slices (optional; for texture)

For Serving

• 2 lemons (sliced into wedges)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Craft the Likama Marinade

In a small bowl, combine all marinade ingredients: olive oil, minced garlic, salt, ground ginger, turmeric, paprika, cumin, coriander, and white pepper. Grate the nutmeg (whole or pre-ground) over the mixture using a microplane grater (≈12 passes for ⅛ teaspoon). Stir vigorously until smooth and fragrant—this is the “likama” base.

Step 2: Prep & Marinate the Salmon (Optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper/foil for easy cleanup. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels (critical for crisp skin and even marination). Place salmon skin-side down on the sheet. Pour the entire likama marinade over the salmon, spreading to coat all surfaces.

Enhance Flavor Tip: Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap, refrigerate for up to 24 hours (uncover 1 hour before roasting to bring to room temperature).

Step 3: Roast the Salmon to Perfection

Transfer the marinated salmon to the oven’s middle rack. Roast 12–15 minutes, until the flesh flakes easily with a fork (internal temp: 145°F/63°C for medium-rare, 160°F/71°C for well-done). Adjust time based on fillet thickness: thinner fillets may need 10–12 minutes, thicker ones 15–18 minutes.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking—salmon becomes dry if left in the oven beyond “just done.”

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Salad

While the salmon roasts, prepare the salad:

• In a large bowl, whisk together 2½ tablespoons olive oil, 1½ tablespoons lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

• Add thinly sliced green/red cabbage, cilantro, and toss to coat evenly with dressing.

• Taste and adjust salt if needed (the salad should balance bright acidity and savory notes).

Step 5: Serve the Dish

Remove the salmon from the oven and let rest 2–3 minutes (retains juiciness). Top the salmon with the cabbage salad and toasted almonds (if using). Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the salmon and extra salad on the side.

User Reviews & Adaptations

(From home cooks testing the recipe)

• “Substituted rainbow trout for salmon and roasted at 400°F (10°F higher). Used only green cabbage + added grated carrot for color. Simple and excellent!”

• “First time I forgot the oil—salmon was dry-rubbed with garlic, still amazing. Repeated with oil, and the flavor was richer! Key to not overcooking.”

• “Made with sockeye salmon (coho is better for richness). Marinated 18 hours—added almonds + extra lemon for brightness. Salad is the star!”

• “Toddler ate a full serving! Hidden gem—added fennel to the salad, which elevated it. Served with tzatziki and couscous for a full meal.”

Enjoy this balanced, flavor-packed dish—its versatility shines with substitutions (trout, fennel, or extra herbs) and quick prep time.