Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick to prepare? Then look no further! This salmon and artichoke heart recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. This simple step ensures your salmon cooks evenly and doesn't stick.
Sauté the aromatics: In an oven-safe skillet (or a separate skillet if you don’t have an oven-safe one), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste.
Add the artichoke hearts: Add the quartered artichoke hearts to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly softened.
Deglaze (optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld. If substituting chicken broth, add it at this stage.
Assemble and bake: Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, nestled amongst the artichoke hearts. Drizzle the lemon juice over the salmon, and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
Finish cooking: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy! This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon:
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon is dry and less flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Pat the salmon dry: Patting the salmon fillets dry before cooking helps them crisp up nicely and develop a better sear.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This salmon and artichoke heart recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and the homemade cooking experience is truly rewarding. Enjoy this amazing dish, and don't hesitate to share your culinary creations!