In the realm of home cooking, Delia Smith stands as a beacon of inspiration, guiding both novices and seasoned cooks through the art of simple yet profound culinary creations. Among the myriad of recipes that have earned her acclaim, one particularly stands out for its simplicity and versatility: the Watercress Sauce.
This recipe, characterized by its minimalistic approach, harnesses the peppery bite of watercress, the tang of lemon, and the creamy richness of crème fraîche to craft a sauce that elevates any dish it accompanies. Perfect for pairing with fish, enriching salads, or serving as a dip, this sauce embodies the essence of Delia Smith’s culinary philosophy: that with a few quality ingredients and straightforward techniques, one can achieve flavors that are both vibrant and deeply satisfying.
How To Make Delia Smith Watercress Sauce Recipe Overview
This Watercress Sauce, inspired by Delia Smith’s approach to cooking, epitomizes culinary elegance with minimal effort. Ready in just about 10 minutes, this no-cook recipe is astonishingly simple to make and brimming with flavor. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this sauce offers about 1 cup of vibrant, creamy goodness, making it a perfect companion for fish, particularly salmon. Its versatility doesn’t stop there; it’s equally delightful when paired with salads, vegetables, and even meats, thanks to its creamy, zesty profile that enhances the natural flavors of your dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh watercress, roughly chopped
- 1 cup of crème fraîche
- The juice and zest of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the watercress to ensure it’s free from any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with kitchen towels.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped watercress, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
- Add the crème fraîche to the blender. Pulse a few times until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce achieves a creamy consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can adjust its consistency by adding a little water or more lemon juice, depending on your taste preference.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper if needed.
- Your Watercress Sauce is now ready to serve! It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Value (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 100 kcal
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 20mg
Also Read: Strawberry Jam Recipe Delia Smith
Pairings
Grilled Salmon: The rich, fatty texture of salmon is perfectly complemented by the peppery zest of the Watercress Sauce. Grilling the salmon adds a smoky note that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the sauce, creating a harmonious balance between the two.
Roasted New Potatoes: When drizzled over crispy, golden-brown roasted new potatoes, the Watercress Sauce adds a creamy and vibrant dimension. The lemon zest in the sauce cuts through the richness of the potatoes, making each bite moreish and flavorful.
Steamed Asparagus: Asparagus and watercress both herald the arrival of spring with their fresh, green flavors. Steaming the asparagus preserves its crunch and natural sweetness, which is then elevated by the tangy and creamy sauce, making for a light yet indulgent side dish.
Poached Eggs on Avocado Toast: For a brunch that impresses, the Watercress Sauce can be generously spooned over poached eggs nestled atop creamy avocado toast. The sauce’s acidity and creaminess enhance the richness of the egg and the smoothness of the avocado, creating a luxurious and satisfying meal.
Charred Chicken Breast: The simplicity of a well-seasoned, charred chicken breast is taken to new heights when paired with the Watercress Sauce. The char on the chicken introduces a subtle bitterness that is perfectly balanced by the bright, creamy sauce, adding depth and complexity to a seemingly simple dish.
FAQs
Can I use sour cream instead of crème fraîche?
Yes, you can use sour cream instead of crème fraîche. Sour cream is a bit tangier but it works well in the recipe. It will give the sauce a slightly different flavor, but it’s still delicious. Just mix it in the same way you would with crème fraîche. The sauce might be a bit thicker, so you can thin it with a little lemon juice or water if needed. It’s a great substitute if you can’t find crème fraîche.
How can I make a vegan version of this sauce?
To make a vegan version of this sauce, replace crème fraîche with a vegan alternative. Vegan sour cream or cashew cream are good options. They mimic the creaminess and add a nice texture. If using cashew cream, blend soaked cashews with water until smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more or less water. Add this to the watercress and lemon mixture as you would with crème fraîche. It keeps the sauce creamy and delicious, and it’s completely plant-based!
Can I add other herbs to this sauce?
Yes, you can add other herbs to this sauce. It’s a great way to tweak the flavor to match your dish. Try mixing in herbs like dill, chives, or parsley. Each herb adds its unique taste. Dill goes well with fish, chives add a mild onion flavor, and parsley brings freshness. Just chop them finely and mix them into the sauce. Experiment to find your favorite combination. It’s all about making the sauce suit your taste.
How long can I store this sauce in the refrigerator?
You can keep this sauce in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to put it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Before you use it again, give it a good stir. Sometimes, the ingredients separate a bit when they sit. Stirring mixes everything back together. If it looks or smells off, it’s best to throw it away. Always better to be safe with food. Enjoy your sauce within this time for the best taste.
Can this sauce be frozen?
It’s not a good idea to freeze this sauce. Freezing can change its texture and taste. When you thaw it, the sauce might become watery or separate. This can ruin the creamy, smooth feel it has when fresh. If you have leftovers, it’s best to keep them in the fridge and use them within 2 days. Enjoying it fresh is always the best way to go. This way, you get the best flavor and texture from your sauce.
Conclusion
This Watercress Sauce is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a sauce that’s both elegant and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to dress up a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a gathering, this sauce is sure to be a hit. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. Enjoy the freshness and zesty kick it brings to your meals!
Delia Smith Watercress Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups of fresh watercress roughly chopped
- 1 cup of crème fraîche
- The juice and zest of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the watercress to ensure it’s free from any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with kitchen towels.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped watercress, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Blend until the mixture becomes a smooth paste.
- Add the crème fraîche to the blender. Pulse a few times until all ingredients are well combined and the sauce achieves a creamy consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can adjust its consistency by adding a little water or more lemon juice, depending on your taste preference.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning, adding a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper if needed.
- Your Watercress Sauce is now ready to serve! It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
