Baked Salmon With Spinach

Discover a simple, healthy recipe for Baked Salmon With Spinach that’s perfect for a quick and delicious dinner any night of the week. This dish brings together tender, flaky salmon and vibrant, sautéed spinach for a balanced meal full of flavor, nutrients, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner solution or a wholesome way to impress guests, Baked Salmon With Spinach delivers with minimal effort but maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, this meal supports both heart and brain health.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy weeknights or impromptu dinners.
• Vibrant Flavors: The earthy spinach complements the rich, buttery salmon for a perfect flavor balance.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples elevate the dish without overwhelming your shopping list.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easy to customize with different herbs, spices, or sides to suit any palate or diet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures in Baked Salmon With Spinach. These essentials keep the dish fresh, healthy, and deeply satisfying without fuss.

• Fresh Salmon Fillets: The star of the dish, providing a rich source of protein with a delicate, buttery texture.
• Fresh Spinach: Offers a vibrant color and nutrient-rich base for the salmon to rest on.
• Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats and helps to roast the salmon evenly, enhancing flavor and moisture.
• Garlic Cloves: Imparts a fragrant warmth that complements both the spinach and salmon beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the entire dish with a fresh, zesty tang to cut through the richness of the fish.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate flavors without overwhelming.
• Optional: Fresh Herbs (such as dill or parsley): Add an extra layer of aromatic freshness that pairs naturally with salmon.

Variations for Baked Salmon With Spinach

Feel free to tweak and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary requirements. Substitutions and additions can keep this dish exciting each time you make it.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a subtle heat boost.
• Creamy Spinach: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or crème fraîche for a richer, silkier texture.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with basil, thyme, or tarragon in place of dill or parsley.
• Leafy Greens Substitute: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but feel free to add roasted potatoes or quinoa as a side for a filling meal.

How to Make Baked Salmon With Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Step 2: Sauté the Spinach

In a skillet over medium heat, warm a tablespoon of olive oil and add minced garlic. Once fragrant, toss in the spinach and cook until wilted but still bright green, about 2-3 minutes. Season with a little salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Spread the sautéed spinach evenly on the bottom of the baking dish, creating a tasty bed for the salmon. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets on top, allowing the flavors to mingle during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The spinach will continue to cook gently under the salmon.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs or a final drizzle of lemon juice for an added burst of freshness before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon With Spinach

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for wild-caught if possible for the best taste and nutritional value.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye in the final minutes to keep the salmon juicy and tender.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Frozen spinach can become watery and may alter the texture.
• Season Well: Salt and lemon juice are game changers to balance the natural oils in salmon.
• Let it Rest: After baking, allow the salmon to rest a couple of minutes to lock in the juices.

How to Serve Baked Salmon With Spinach

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, dill, or chives to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. Thinly sliced lemon wedges also make a beautiful and functional garnish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted baby potatoes, steamed quinoa, or a light cucumber and tomato salad to keep the meal balanced and colorful.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve salmon fillets atop a bed of creamy mashed cauliflower or swirl some garlic-infused yogurt on the plate alongside the spinach.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover salmon and spinach into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking; enjoy within 2 days for best freshness and safety.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. Consume within one month to maintain flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) to avoid drying out the salmon. Alternatively, use a microwave on low power, covering the dish to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?

While you can substitute frozen spinach, it’s best to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before cooking to prevent sogginess.

Is skin-on or skinless salmon better for baking?

Skin-on salmon helps keep the fish moist during baking and adds flavor, but skinless works well if you prefer easier plating.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon is perfectly cooked when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add creamy variations; simply skip those for a dairy-free meal.

What are some good herbs to pair with salmon?

Dill, parsley, thyme, and basil are fantastic fresh herbs that complement salmon’s flavor beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon With Spinach is one of those delightful meals that feels like a treat but is incredibly straightforward to make. It brings vibrant color, fresh flavors, and nourishing ingredients to your table with little effort. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a reliable winner that’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a go and savor every wholesome bite!

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