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Ensalada de Naranja con Bacalao

This vibrant Spanish Ensalada de Naranja con Bacalao is a refreshing symphony of flavors, featuring tender, flaky poached cod, juicy segments of sweet orange, briny black olives, and crisp red onion. Drizzled with a simple vinaigrette and fresh parsley, it's a light yet satisfying dish perfect as an appetizer or a bright main course on a warm day.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time
40 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Easy
Per serving
250 kcal
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Gluten-free

Allergen information: may contain fish and sulphites. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Ensalada de Naranja con Bacalao

Mise en place

Ingredients

Measurements

Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.

Ingredients

  • 400 gcod fillet, skinless, boneless
  • 2 pcsorange, peeled and segmented
  • 0.5 pcsred onion, thinly sliced
  • 50 gblack olive, pitted and halved
  • 1 pinchsalt
  • 1 pinchblack pepper, freshly ground

dressing

  • 3 tbspextra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbspwhite wine vinegar

garnish

  • 2 tbspfresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

Medium pot · Slotted spoon · Large mixing bowl · Small bowl · Whisk · Chef's knife · Cutting board

The method

Step by step

  1. 1

    Bring a medium pot of lightly salted water to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

    About 3 min

    Cook’s note: Ensure the water is simmering, not boiling vigorously, to prevent the cod from breaking apart and to ensure even cooking.

  2. 2

    Carefully add the cod fillet to the simmering water.

  3. 3

    Poach the cod for 8-12 minutes, or until it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.

    About 10 min

    Cook’s note: To check for doneness, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet; it should separate without resistance. Avoid overcooking, as this will result in dry, tough fish.

  4. 4

    Remove the poached cod from the water using a slotted spoon or spatula and transfer it to a plate to cool slightly.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: Allowing the cod to cool for a few minutes makes it easier to flake and prevents it from cooking further.

  5. 5

    While the cod cools, prepare the oranges: peel them thoroughly, then carefully segment them over a medium bowl to catch any juice.

    About 5 min

    Cook’s note: To segment an orange, slice off the top and bottom, then cut away the peel and pith. Hold the orange over a bowl and slice along the membranes to release the individual segments. This technique, called 'supreming,' yields beautiful, seedless pieces.

  6. 6

    Finely dice the red onion and thinly slice the black olives.

    About 2 min

    Cook’s note: For a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding to the salad.

  7. 7

    Once cooled, flake the cod into bite-sized pieces using a fork.

  8. 8

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked cod, orange segments (and any collected juice), diced red onion, and sliced black olives.

    About 2 min

  9. 9

    In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper until emulsified.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad; adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the acidity and richness.

  10. 10

    Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine everything thoroughly.

    About 1 min

    Cook’s note: Toss gently to avoid breaking up the delicate cod flakes and orange segments.

  11. 11

    Finely chop the fresh parsley.

    About 1 min

  12. 12

    Garnish the ensalada generously with the fresh chopped parsley just before serving.

    Cook’s note: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the citrus and fish beautifully.

Per serving

Nutrition

Calories
250.3kcal
Protein
19.4g
Carbs
16.8g
Fat
12.3g
Fibre
3.4g
Sugar
11.5g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Cook’s note:

This vibrant salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp, dry white wine like Albariño or Sauvignon Blanc. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing. You can also add a handful of toasted almonds for extra crunch, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an additional layer of Spanish flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Ensalada de Naranja con Bacalao in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature and does not require reheating. If desired, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving to take the chill off.

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