Creamy Lemon-Butter Salmon over Spinach Rice

This Creamy Lemon-Butter Salmon over Spinach Rice is a dish that promises to delight. Featuring tender salmon fillets nestled atop a bed of creamy, spinach-infused rice, this recipe combines the zest of lemon and the richness of Parmesan to create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a perfect choice for a luxurious weeknight dinner or a special occasion that calls for a dish with a gourmet touch.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavors it brings to the table. The creaminess of the sauce envelops the salmon in a smooth texture while the subtle spice of black pepper and turmeric adds just the right amount of warmth. This dish not only tastes exquisite but also presents beautifully, making it a joy to both cook and serve.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 Salmon fillet
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
  • 1/2 Onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 Lemon, sliced
  • 30 g Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 70-100 g Spinach
  • 2-3 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 25 g Butter
  • 100 ml Dry white wine
  • 200 ml 15-20% Cream
  • 1 Carrot, grated
  • 1 cup Rice
  • Pinch of Turmeric
  • 2 cups Water

Directions:

  • Season the salmon fillet with salt and black pepper.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry the salmon for 1-2 minutes on each side. Set aside.
  • In the same pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  • Add lemon slices, grated Parmesan, and spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted.
  • Stir in olive oil, butter, wine, and cream. Season again with salt and pepper.
  • Cover and simmer for 7-15 minutes, until the salmon is tender.
  • In a separate pan, sauté carrot and onion. Add rice, turmeric, and water. Cook until rice is tender.
  • Serve the salmon over the creamy spinach rice.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 2 servings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Health Benefits: Salmon is a great source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health. Spinach adds fiber, iron, and vitamins A and C to the dish, boosting its nutritional value.
  • Ease of Preparation: Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under an hour. It’s perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners.
  • Versatility: This recipe can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs. It can be made gluten-free by ensuring the white wine and cream are gluten-free, and it can be made dairy-free by substituting the butter and cream with suitable alternatives.

Cooking Tips

  • Choosing the Right Ingredients: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture. When selecting spinach, choose fresh, vibrant leaves. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be a convenient substitute.
  • Wine Pairing: The creamy lemon-butter sauce pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine. A Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay complements the richness of the salmon and the acidity of the lemon.
  • Serving Suggestions: This dish is best served hot, directly after cooking. For a more colorful presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley and a few lemon slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare parts of this dish in advance. The spinach rice can be cooked ahead of time and reheated when needed. However, salmon is best when cooked fresh to maintain its tender texture.

What are some alternative fish that can be used in this recipe? If salmon isn’t available, this recipe also works well with other fatty fish like trout or Arctic char. For a lighter option, tilapia or cod can be used, though the cooking times may vary slightly.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian? For a vegetarian version, replace the salmon with thick slices of halloumi cheese or tofu. Cook them until golden in the creamy sauce for a delightful vegetarian alternative.

Additional Notes

This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat. The golden, crispy salmon atop the vibrant green of the spinach rice makes it a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s perfect for those special days when you want to treat yourself or impress your guests with your culinary skills.