WeTwo Signature Date Night: Pan-Seared Fiordland Salmon with Citrus Beurre Blanc

This dish captures the spirit of fine dining and brings it gracefully into the home. The pristine freshness of Fiordland salmon, paired with a silky citrus beurre blanc, creates a balance of richness and brightness—perfect for an evening designed around connection, beauty, and shared pleasure.

At WeTwo, we believe memorable dining should be both accessible and extraordinary. This recipe is intentionally simple, refined in flavor, and styled for couples who wish to create their own atmosphere of understated luxury.

The Perfect Pairing

• Wine: A chilled Central Otago Pinot Gris or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc
• Side: Buttered leek risotto or roasted baby potatoes with thyme
• Mood: Dimmed lights, soft jazz, and a table dressed with candles and fresh eucalyptus

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Salmon

• 2 salmon fillets (Fiordland or King, about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp lemon zest

For the Citrus Beurre Blanc

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris)
• 1 small shallot, finely minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
• Salt & white pepper to taste
• 1 tsp chopped chives or microgreens (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Citrus Beurre Blanc

1. In a saucepan, combine white wine, shallots, lemon juice, and orange juice. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the cream and reduce slightly, 2 minutes more.
3. Lower the heat and whisk in butter, one cube at a time, until smooth and velvety.
4. Strain into a warm bowl, discarding the shallots. Season to taste and keep warm.

Step 2: Pan-Sear the Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high with olive oil and butter.
3. Place salmon skin-side down; cook 3–4 minutes until crisp.
4. Flip carefully and cook 2 minutes more, basting with pan butter.
5. Rest briefly before plating.

Step 3: Plate & Serve

1. Spoon beurre blanc onto warmed plates.
2. Set the salmon gently on top.
3. Garnish with chives or microgreens.
4. Serve with your chosen side dish and wine pairing.

WeTwo Experience Tip

• Add handwritten place cards or a printed menu for an intimate restaurant touch.
• Curate a playlist—bossa nova, soft jazz, or classical for timeless atmosphere.
• Finish with a shared dessert, such as chocolate fondant or vanilla panna cotta.

Final Thoughts

This dish is proof that luxury doesn’t require reservations—it requires intention. By curating the details of your own table, you transform dinner into an experience of romance, elegance, and memory. At WeTwo, we invite you to savor not only the flavors, but the art of creating unforgettable moments together.