Baked Salmon With Spinach

If you’re craving a meal that’s healthy, delicious, and effortless, then Baked Salmon With Spinach is your new go-to dinner. This recipe combines tender, flaky salmon with vibrant, nutrient-packed spinach, resulting in a dish bursting with flavor and color that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a nutritious, satisfying meal without too much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Convenient: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Nutritious Powerhouse: Combines heart-healthy salmon with vitamin-rich spinach for a balanced meal.
• Simplicity at Its Best: Minimal ingredients that enhance natural flavors without overpowering.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and a beautiful presentation that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customizable to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Salmon With Spinach recipe shines because of clean, fresh ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each item adds a unique taste, texture, or nutritional boost, helping you create a balanced and inviting dish.

• Fresh salmon fillets: Choose wild-caught if possible for the best flavor and omega-3 benefits.
• Baby spinach leaves: Tender, bright greens that cook down quickly and add vibrant color.
• Olive oil: Adds a silky texture and enhances the dish with healthy fats.
• Garlic cloves: Minced for a subtle spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with salmon.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the fish.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the natural flavors.
• Optional red pepper flakes: For those who like a gentle touch of heat.

Variations for Baked Salmon With Spinach

Feel free to tweak this recipe to your liking! Whether you want to mix up the flavors, accommodate dietary needs, or add a personal twist, it’s incredibly easy to customize.

• Herb boost: Add fresh dill, parsley, or thyme to complement the salmon’s flavor.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top before baking.
• Veggie mix: Toss in chopped cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• Spicy hint: Use smoked paprika or cayenne instead of red pepper flakes for a different heat profile.
• Gluten-free option: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it great for gluten-sensitive eaters.

How to Make Baked Salmon With Spinach

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Salmon

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when the salmon goes in. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Mixture

In a medium pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned. Add the baby spinach and cook just until wilted, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt, and squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice to brighten it up.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Spread the softened spinach evenly over the baking sheet around the salmon fillets or place the spinach directly underneath the fillets for a steamed effect. Bake everything together for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once out of the oven, drizzle a bit more fresh lemon juice over the salmon and spinach, and if desired, sprinkle some fresh herbs or red pepper flakes. Let the dish rest for a minute or two before serving to lock in those flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon With Spinach

• Choose Uniform Fillets: Make sure your salmon pieces are of similar thickness to cook evenly.
• Avoid Overcooking: Salmon cooks quickly; keep an eye so it stays moist and tender.
• Fresh Spinach Only: Avoid frozen spinach to maintain vibrant color and texture.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked salmon.
• Rest the Fish: Let salmon rest a few minutes after baking to let juices redistribute.

How to Serve Baked Salmon With Spinach

Garnishes

A squeeze of fresh lemon wedges on the plate adds a zesty lift and complements the fish beautifully. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley brings brightness and an inviting fragrance.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with simple sides like roasted baby potatoes, quinoa salad, or a light garlic butter rice to round out the meal with texture and substance without overshadowing the salmon and spinach.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your baked salmon on a bed of the sautéed spinach for an elegant look. Or plate the fillets alongside portioned spinach bundles tied with a chive strand, bringing a restaurant-quality feel right to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover salmon and spinach in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making a quick lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

While fresh is best with salmon, you can freeze cooked leftovers in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator to maintain texture as best as possible.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a low oven (around 275°F) wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a quick warm-up in the microwave on medium power works well if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon but make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking to avoid excess moisture and ensure even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Absolutely! Baked Salmon With Spinach is low in carbs and rich in healthy fats, making it perfect for keto and low-carb meal plans.

Can I substitute baby spinach with other greens?

Yes, tender greens like Swiss chard or kale work well; just be aware that tougher greens might require slightly longer cooking times.

What type of salmon is best for baking?

Wild-caught Atlantic or sockeye salmon are flavorful choices, but farmed salmon also works well. Look for fillets with firm flesh and rich color.

How can I tell when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. You can also use a thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.

Final Thoughts

Baked Salmon With Spinach is a truly satisfying dish that blends flavor, health, and simplicity. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or treating yourself to something special, this recipe hits all the right notes. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a nourishing meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare!

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