Meta Description: Elevate your dinner with tender red wine-poached pears and Salmon! This easy recipe bursts with sweet and savory flavors, making it Perfect for date nights or special occasions.

This recipe infuses the sweetness of red wine and honey with the subtle warmth of cinnamon and cloves, creating a fragrant poaching liquid that transforms pears into tender delights. Paired with succulent salmon fillets, each bite offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes, complemented by a rich reduction of the poaching liquid. Simple yet sophisticated, this dish is perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions.

What other proteins would pair well with these poached pears?

While salmon is a classic choice for this dish, there are plenty of other proteins that would pair beautifully with red wine-poached pears. Consider trying it with chicken breasts, steak, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The sweet and savory flavors of the poached pears complement a variety of proteins, so feel free to get creative with your pairings.

Could you use alternative poaching liquids besides red wine?

If you prefer not to use red wine for poaching, there are plenty of alternative liquids you can try. The key is to choose a liquid that complements the flavors of the pears and adds depth to the dish. Replace red wine with:

• White wine: Consider using spiced white wine for a lighter flavor profile.
• Apple cider/fruit juice: Experiment with apple cider or fruit juices like pomegranate or apple juice for a sweeter twist.
• Tea: For a more savory flavor, consider poaching pears in a tea mixture. You can use either Earl Grey, Jasmine, or black tea.

Can the poaching liquid be reused for other dishes?

Absolutely! The poaching liquid is packed with flavor and can be used to enhance other dishes as well. You can reduce it by adding a splash of stock to make a delicious gravy. Or you can use it as a base for pan sauces or marinades for meats, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor. Don’t let any of that delicious liquid go to waste!

Is this recipe suitable for making ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead of time, which makes it ideal for meal prep recipes. Poach the pears and cook the salmon ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. When you are ready to eat, reheat the pears and salmon and prepare the reduced poaching liquid according to the recipe instructions. It’s a fuss-free way to enjoy a gourmet meal without all the last-minute stress.

What are some different methods of poaching pears?

While stovetop simmering is the traditional method for poaching pears, there are other techniques you can try as well. For example:

• Sous vide: you could use sous vide machine to poach the pears at a precise temperature for perfectly tender results.
• Pressure cooker/slow cooker: Alternatively, you could use a pressure cooker for a quicker cooking time.

Whichever method you choose, you are sure to end up with deliciously poached pears that are perfect for pairing with salmon.

Red Wine Poached, Pears with Salmon – The Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

2 cups Red Wine

4 firm Pears, peeled and cored

1 cup Orange Juice

¼ cup Honey

4 Salmon Fillets

4 Cinnamon Sticks

8 Cloves

Preparation

1. In a large saucepan, add red wine, orange juice, and honey. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Once the mixture is simmering, add pears, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
3. Allow the pears to simmer in the poaching liquid for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are tender but still hold their shape. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. While the pears are poaching, prepare the salmon fillets. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and flake easily with a fork.
6. Once the pears are tender, remove them from the poaching liquid and set them aside.
7. Strain the poaching liquid through a fine mesh sieve to remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves, then return the liquid to the saucepan.
8. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the poaching liquid to a rapid boil. Allow it to boil for 10-15 minutes or until it has reduced by half and thickened slightly.
9. To serve, place a salmon fillet on each plate and top it with a poached pear. Drizzle with the reduced poaching liquid and serve immediately.
10. Enjoy your elegant and flavorful red wine-poached pears with salmon!