This Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Sauce is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The crispy salmon fillets are served with a rich and creamy sauce made from fresh tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and fragrant herbs. Paired with sautéed rice, this dish offers a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 150 g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 handfuls of baby spinach
- 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream
- 30 g (¼ cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), finely chopped
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for rice)
- 1 cup (200 g) rice
- 1 ½ cups (350 ml) hot water
- ½ tsp salt (for rice)
Directions:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the salmon for about 4 minutes or until the skin is crispy and caramelized.
- Meanwhile, finely chop the garlic.
- Turn the salmon over and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring, until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook briefly.
- Add the baby spinach and cook for about 2 minutes until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add the finely chopped herbs (such as basil or parsley) and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about a minute.
- Return the salmon fillets to the pan and simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, melt ½ tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Add ½ teaspoon salt, pour in 1 ½ cups hot water, and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook the rice for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Serve the pan-seared salmon with the creamy spinach and tomato sauce alongside the sautéed rice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Pair with a light green salad for a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of the salmon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese for a cheesy touch.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the salmon skin is crispy by pressing it lightly with a spatula while cooking.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the heavy cream for an extra few minutes.
- Use hot water for the rice to speed up the cooking process and ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or arugula.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs like oregano or thyme can work as well.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.
- Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides iron, which is important for maintaining healthy red blood cells.
- Tomatoes are full of antioxidants like lycopene, which promote heart health and protect against inflammation.
- Parmesan cheese provides calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Rice is a good source of energy, providing carbohydrates for fuel.
Dietary Information:
- Calories (per serving): Approximately 550
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 650 mg
Storage:
- Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Rice can be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The creamy sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the crispy salmon beautifully.
- Packed with healthy, nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s a satisfying and balanced meal.
- It’s versatile and can be customized to your liking with different vegetables or herbs.
Conclusion:
This Pan-Seared Salmon with Creamy Spinach and Tomato Sauce is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The tender salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy sauce, making every bite a delight. It’s an easy and nutritious dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Try it today for a quick, flavorful dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. - Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a light cream alternative like half-and-half for a lower-calorie option. - Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute spinach with kale, arugula, or any leafy green, and you can add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor. - How can I make the rice quicker?
To speed up cooking, you can use a rice cooker or microwave the rice in a microwave-safe dish with water for about 10 minutes. - What can I serve this dish with?
You can serve it with steamed vegetables, a green salad, or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal. - Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives, like olive oil and coconut cream. - Can I add more herbs?
Definitely! Fresh dill, thyme, or tarragon would pair wonderfully with the salmon. - Can I make this recipe in advance?
While the salmon is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and rice ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve. - How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
Salmon is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. - Can I make this recipe without the rice?
Yes, you can skip the rice for a lighter meal or serve the salmon with a side salad instead.