Feb 15, 2025

WeTwo Date Night: A Taste of Matakauri at Home

V’ala Matakauri Lodge’s Pan-Seared Fiordland Salmon with Citrus Beurre Blanc – A WeTwo Signature Date Night Dish

Inspired by the stunning Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown, New Zealand, this dish brings the luxury of fine dining to your own kitchen. The freshness of Fiordland salmon, paired with a silky citrus beurre blanc, creates a dish that’s both sophisticated and effortless.

Perfect for a romantic dinner for two, this recipe is all about simple elegance, rich flavors, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

🥂 The Perfect WeTwo Pairing:

• Drink: A chilled glass of Central Otago Pinot Gris or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc

• Side: A warm, buttered leek risotto or roasted baby potatoes with thyme

• Mood: Dim the lights, play soft jazz, and set the table with candles and fresh eucalyptus

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Salmon:

• 2 Fiordland or King Salmon fillets (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 over medium heat, add the white wine, shallots, lemon juice, and orange juice. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half (about 5 minutes).

2. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce for another 2 minutes.

3. Lower the heat to low, then whisk in cold butter, one cube at a time, until the sauce is velvety and smooth.

4. Strain through a fine sieve into a warm bowl, discarding shallots.

5. Season with salt and white pepper, then keep warm while you prepare the salmon.

Step 2: Pan-Sear the Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season generously with salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.

2. Heat a stainless steel or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter.

3. Place salmon skin-side down in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.

4. Flip the salmon carefully and cook for another 2 minutes, basting with butter from the pan.

5. Remove from heat and let it rest for 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Plate & Serve

1. Spoon a generous pool of citrus beurre blanc onto a plate.

2. Gently place the pan-seared salmon on top.

3. Garnish with chopped chives or microgreens.

4. Serve immediately with your chosen side dish and wine pairing.

🍽️ WeTwo Experience Tip

Make it an unforgettable night by adding a little extra touch:

• Serve with handwritten place cards or a printed menu for a fine-dining feel.

• Play soft bossa nova or classical music in the background.

• End the meal with a chocolate fondant or vanilla bean panna cotta for dessert.

💬 Final Thoughts

This luxurious yet effortless dish brings the essence of Matakauri Lodge’s five-star dining straight to your home. Whether you’re reminiscing about a past trip or dreaming of a future one, this meal is a taste of pure romance and culinary indulgence.

Bon appétit, and happy WeTwo dining! 🍽️💛