Description
This flavorful salmon and spinach recipe combines the richness of salmon with the earthiness of fresh spinach, resulting in a dish that is both healthy and delicious. The creamy spinach sauce adds a velvety texture that perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon. With a quick prep time and minimal ingredients, this meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and antioxidants, it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp grated parmesan (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the salmon cooks evenly and creates a crispy top.
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season each fillet with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice. The lemon juice helps enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Prepare the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Sauté the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring constantly, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until wilted. The spinach should reduce in size and release some moisture.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option) and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and form a rich, creamy sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the creamy spinach sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring that they are evenly covered.
- Bake: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with fresh dill and a sprinkle of grated parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Spinach Options: You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
- Leftovers: Store leftover salmon and spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid overcooking the salmon.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg