Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further! This spinach and salmon recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, brimming with nutrients, and surprisingly easy to make – even for beginner cooks. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet satisfying homemade dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (4-6 ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 10 ounces fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese for topping
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This easy recipe comes together quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.
Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the salmon significantly.
Sauté the spinach and garlic: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don't let it burn! Then, add the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and bake: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the wilted spinach in the skillet. Pour the lemon juice evenly over the salmon. This adds a burst of fresh citrusy flavor and helps to keep the salmon moist.
Bake to perfection: 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. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess. This healthy and delicious meal is perfect served with a side of quinoa or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your skillet is large enough to comfortably accommodate the salmon fillets and spinach without overcrowding. This ensures even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently check if the salmon is cooked through. It should flake easily.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet along with the spinach.
- Different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This spinach and salmon recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, providing a delicious and nutritious option for the whole family. Enjoy!