Salmon With Lentils

Directions

1. 1
   Place the lentils in a heat-proof bowl and cover with boiling water. Set aside for 15 minutes, then drain.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, heat the oil in a saute pan, add the onions, leeks, thyme, salt, and pepper and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
3. 3
   Add the garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
4. 4
   Add the drained lentils, celery, carrots, chicken stock, and tomato paste. Cover and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
5. 5
   Add the vinegar and season, to taste.
6. 6
   Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
7. 7
   For the salmon, heat a dry oven-proof saute pan over high heat for 4 minutes.
8. 8
   Meanwhile, rub both sides of the salmon fillets with olive oil and season the tops very liberally with salt and pepper.
9. 9
   When the pan is very hot, place the salmon fillets seasoning-sides down in the pan and cook over medium heat without moving them for 2 minutes, until very browned.
10. 10
    Turn the fillets and place the pan in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, until the salmon is cooked rare.
11. 11
    Spoon a mound of lentils on each plate and place a salmon fillet on top.
12. 12
    Serve hot.