A Smokeshow Dinner

Another food that Scotland is known for is their smoked salmon.  I am a huge fan of seafood so I know that I will be taking advantage of this local delicacy.  A couple of nights ago, I went to Mitchell’s Deli in St Andrews, where I tried it for the first time.

I ordered the Surf Board to share with a friend, which was made up of hot and cold smoked salmon, peppered mackerel, smoked halibut, garlic mayo, and bread.  This board was phenomenal.  The cold smoked salmon was my favorite.  Put the garlic mayo on a slice of bread, topped with the salmon, and you will be in heaven!  The mackerel and halibut were also good, just not something I am used to eating.

Also, as a fun fact, yesterday I saw Mark Wahlberg! I was heading towards the West Sands Beach, which is near the 18th hole.  Suddenly a car slowly drove by, with Wahlberg in the passenger seat with the window down.  I let out a gasp and he saw my happy face.  He waved, knowing that I was a fan!  I will keep you updated on any more famous people sightings in St Andrews since the golf course attracts people from around the world.

 

Baked Haddock

This is another one of my mother’s tried and true recipes.  Very simple you only need fresh haddock, butter, and round crackers (aka Ritz) and it probably takes around 45 minutes to prepare.  This is one of my favorite meals because it is so decadent, while managing to stay relatively light.  The buttery crumb topping pairs nicely with the delicate fish, and if you plate it with an added dash of lemon juice, it enhances the flavor even more!

Baked Haddock (serves 5-6)

2.5 lbs fresh haddock

3 cups crushed round crackers

3/4 stick melted salted butter

Pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees.

Mix the crumbs and butter together in a bowl until it is all incorporated.

Place the haddock skin side down on a baking pan.  Sprinkle and press the crumb mixture lightly onto the fish.

Bake for around 20-30 minutes.  The crumbs should be lightly browned and the fish should flake easily with a fork.

Asian Inspired Shrimp and Scallop Pasta

This seafood dish will add some variation to your life when compared to the traditional tomato sauce over spaghetti.  The fresh citrus, salty soy sauce, and honey create a deep flavor that is unmatched, and pairs perfectly with shellfish.  Light and delicate it will not make you feel the least bit heavy after eating it.  Experiment with whatever fresh seafood you have.  I particularly like the bay scallops because of their subtle sweetness.  I have also used salmon, which works as well.  Bobby Flay is the creator of this recipe I just prepare it a little differently.

Asian Inspired Shrimp and Scallop Pasta (serves 4)

1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon soy sauce

2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

2 limes, juiced

6 teaspoons honey

2 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, finely grated

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/2 cup canola oil, divided

2/3 lb pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 lb bay scallops

1-3 tablespoons butter

1 lb thin spaghetti (or angel hair pasta)

Place a couple tablespoons of butter in a pan at high heat.  Place the scallops in the pan.  Sear on both sides to get some crispiness. Reduce heat to medium and cook until the scallops get golden brown all over (probably around 10-15 minutes).

Boil pot of water.  Put in pasta and cook according to directions.

Mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, ginger, garlic, and canola oil in a large bowl.

Place tablespoon of butter in large skillet/ pan at medium/ high heat.  Pour in the marinade.  Add the shrimp and cook on one side until that side gets pink.  Then flip to cook the other side until it gets pink.

Add in the cooked scallops.  Place the pasta in bowls.  Top with seafood.  Then pour some extra sauce over on top.  Then feast!