Introduction
When it comes to a quick and healthy dinner, nothing beats the delightful harmony of baked salmon with sautéed spinach. This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. The fish is tender and flaky, with a vibrant topping of sautéed spinach and fragrant garlic that’s sure to impress. With the bright zest of lemon and a hint of spice, this recipe creates a burst of flavor that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for achieving that golden crust on the salmon.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute — your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Gently stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
- Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down, creating a beautiful display for your meal.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice generously over each fillet. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes if you’re up for a little heat.
- Top each salmon fillet with a portion of the sautéed spinach, spreading it out evenly so each bite is packed with flavor.
- For an extra zing, zest some lemon over the top of the spinach-covered salmon. This little step brightens the dish beautifully!
- Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in, making each bite even more succulent. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to swap the spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. If you’re a fan of a little more spice, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish. Serve this salmon with a side of quinoa or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe makes use of the baking technique, which locks in moisture while developing a delicious crust on the salmon. Sautéing the spinach in olive oil with garlic brings out its natural flavors, creating a lovely contrast to the fish. Mastering these basic techniques opens the door to countless variations in your cooking!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Absolutely! Just ensure they’re fully thawed before baking. You may need to slightly adjust the cooking time.
How can I tell when the salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you’re using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Conclusion
This baked salmon with spinach is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a gathering of friends and family, this dish is sure to bring warmth to your table. Enjoy every bite and remember, cooking is all about sharing and creating delicious memories!