Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This easy slow cooker salmon recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It requires minimal prep time and delivers moist, flaky salmon every single time. This is one of those best recipes that’s so simple, even beginner cooks will feel like pros. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing Your Ingredients
- Place the lemon slices in the bottom of your slow cooker. This adds a lovely citrusy flavor and prevents the salmon from sticking.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the lemon slices.
Cooking the Salmon
- Place the salmon fillet on top of the garlic and lemon. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
- Sprinkle the chopped dill over the salmon. If using, pour the white wine or chicken broth around the salmon.
Slow Cooking Perfection
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillet and your slow cooker.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon from the slow cooker and serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Salmon:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Check for doneness by gently flaking the salmon with a fork. It should flake easily.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh dill and lemon make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillet and your slow cooker. Start checking for doneness around the minimum cooking time.
- Add vegetables: For a complete meal, add other vegetables to your slow cooker, such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb variations: Experiment with other herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano.
- Creamy Salmon: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a richer, creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on salmon size and added ingredients)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate (mostly healthy fats from the salmon and olive oil)
This easy slow cooker salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend meal, or even a special occasion. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dish! The homemade cooking process is simple and rewarding, allowing you to savour every bite of this flavorful salmon. This is truly one of the best recipes for effortless deliciousness.