Crispy Rice and FIsh Salad

WP, a variation of a recipe with Persian roots in Zoroastrianism..

Ingredients

2 or 3 center-cut, skin-on salmon fillets (1 pound total), patted dry
Fine salt
Freshly cracked black pepper
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups cooked white rice (day-old is preferable)
Pinch saffron threads
1 tablespoon boiling water
1 1/2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 cups (2 ounces) leafy greens, such as Little Gem lettuce or spring mix
4 small radishes, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley, dill or chive sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Lightly season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them skin side down in a 12-inch nonstick skillet. Set the skillet over medium-high heat. (There’s no need to preheat the pan; heating the salmon gradually will help the skin crisp without buckling.) Cook, uncovered, until the skin is browned and crisp, about 6 minutes.

2. Decrease the heat to medium and transfer the salmon to a plate. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet, followed by the rice. Use a silicone spatula to spread and press the rice into an even layer along the bottom of the pan. Place the salmon skin side up atop the rice and cook, uncovered, until the rice is golden brown, 15 minutes. (The salmon will cook as the rice crisps; remove it after 10 minutes if you like your salmon medium, otherwise it will be medium-well done after 15 minutes.)

3. Make the dressing: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, crush the saffron threads between your fingers. Add the boiling water and let steep for 1 minute. Whisk in the vinegar and honey and pour in 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil in a thin stream, whisking constantly to form an emulsion. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

4. To serve, break the salmon and rice into large chunks using your hands and layer them on a platter with the greens and radishes. Pour the dressing evenly over the top, garnish with herbs, if desired, and serve family-style.