Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This Salmon Baked Rice recipe is your answer. It's a complete one-pan meal, bursting with fresh ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish the whole family will love. It’s also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Get ready to elevate your quick dinner ideas with this amazing salmon and rice bake!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the rice and broth: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: While the rice simmers, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Assemble the bake: Spread the cooked rice evenly in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the salmon fillet on top of the rice. Scatter the broccoli florets and halved cherry tomatoes around the salmon. Pour the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over everything.
Bake to perfection: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and parsley over the top. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 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 salmon fillet.
Serve and enjoy: Let the baked rice cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For perfectly cooked rice: Use a good quality chicken broth for added flavor. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the baking dish.
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C).
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Salmon Baked Rice: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the baking dish before adding the salmon. Use a mix of fresh herbs like thyme and dill instead of just parsley.
- Creamy Salmon Baked Rice: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the cooked rice before assembling the bake.
- Spicy Salmon Baked Rice: Add a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the sautéed vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a great source of protein from the salmon, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate per serving would be around 400-500 calories, with a significant amount of protein and fiber.
This Salmon Baked Rice recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Enjoy!