Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This salmon with lentils recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a fantastic balance of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy choice. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add lentils and flavor:
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Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
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Stir in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Cook the Salmon:
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While the lentils are simmering, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
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Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Combine and Serve:
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Once the lentils are cooked and the salmon is done, gently stir the lentils to fluff them up.
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Serve the salmon over a bed of lentils. Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon and Lentils:
- Don't overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less herbs and spices to suit your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors.
Variations:
- Spicy Salmon and Lentils: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the lentils for a spicy kick.
- Lemon-Herb Salmon and Lentils: Increase the amount of fresh herbs and add the zest of a lemon to the lentils for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
- Curried Salmon and Lentils: Add a tablespoon of curry powder to the lentils for a flavorful Indian-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe is a wonderful example of healthy eating made easy. It's a complete meal, providing protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a busy weeknight or a more leisurely weekend meal. Enjoy this easy, healthy, and delicious salmon with lentils recipe!