Salmon and shrimp with creamy mashed potato

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Ingredients

For the Fish

• 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 white fish fillets (like cod, halibut, or tilapia)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup milk (warm)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 tablespoons cream or sour cream for extra creaminess

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

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Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Skillet or frying pan
• Potato masher or hand mixer
• Spatula
• Serving plates

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Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces.
2. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be pierced easily with a fork.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
5. Add butter and warm milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. For extra richness, stir in cream or sour cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while cooking the fish.

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Step 2: Prepare the Fish

1. Pat the salmon and white fish fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika (optional).
3. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

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Step 3: Cook the Fish

1. Place the fish fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down for salmon if using.
2. Cook salmon for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Cook the white fish fillets 3–4 minutes per side until opaque and tender.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the fillets while cooking or just before serving for brightness.

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Step 4: Plate and Serve

1. Spoon a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.
2. Place the salmon and white fish fillets on or beside the potatoes.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

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Optional Sauce Ideas

• Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt butter, add minced garlic, cook for 1 minute, and drizzle over fish.
• Lemon Cream Sauce: Combine cream, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Heat gently and pour over fish.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for naturally creamy mashed potatoes.
• Patting the fish dry before cooking ensures a nice sear.
• Avoid overcooking fish; it should be moist and tender.
• Keep mashed potatoes warm while searing the fish for even serving.