This dish features perfectly cooked salmon fillets topped with a creamy Parmesan sauce, paired with aromatic turmeric rice. The salmon is seared to golden perfection and complemented by a rich, flavorful sauce made with garlic, onions, spinach, and a splash of dry white wine. The turmeric rice adds a vibrant color and earthy flavor, making this meal a healthy yet indulgent dinner option.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 300-400 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 25g butter (for richness)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
- 30g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 70-100g spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 100ml dry white wine
- 200ml cream (15-20%)
- Additional Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Turmeric Rice:
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup (200g) rice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color and flavor)
- 2 cups (500ml) water
Directions:
- Prepare the Turmeric Rice:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the rice and turmeric. Stir to coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in the water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and cover.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Keep warm.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 25g butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted (if using fresh spinach) or heated through (if using frozen spinach).
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce the wine.
- Add the cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet with the Parmesan cream sauce, spooning the sauce over the fish.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Serve the salmon with the turmeric rice, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the cream sauce.
- Add some roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Serve with a glass of dry white wine to complement the flavors of the dish.
- For a lightened-up version, serve the salmon and sauce on top of a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a little bit of lemon juice to the cream sauce just before serving.
- Use fresh spinach for a more vibrant color, or frozen spinach for convenience.
- If you don’t have dry white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
- The turmeric rice provides a rich source of fiber and antioxidants from the turmeric and carrots.
- Spinach adds essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and vitamin K.
- Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium for strong bones and muscles.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: This dish does not contain gluten.
- Low-Carb: When paired with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- High-Protein: Thanks to the salmon and the cream sauce.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 650-700 kcal
- Protein: 40-45g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 35-40g
- Fiber: 3-4g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen (without the rice) for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a complete meal in one plate, full of protein, veggies, and flavorful rice.
- The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich yet balanced with fresh lemon and spinach.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Conclusion: This Salmon with Parmesan Cream Sauce and Turmeric Rice is a perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors. The salmon is beautifully complemented by the creamy sauce and vibrant rice, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, indulgent dish that’s also easy to prepare. Serve it up for a quick weeknight dinner or impress your guests at your next gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe? Yes, frozen salmon fillets work well. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option? Yes, you can use half-and-half or a lower-fat cream option if you prefer a lighter sauce.
- What can I use instead of dry white wine? Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used in place of the wine.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, use a dairy-free butter and substitute the cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Can I make the turmeric rice in advance? Yes, the rice can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? You can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water.
- What other herbs can I use in the sauce? Fresh dill or thyme would be great additions to the cream sauce.
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach can be used; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the sauce.
- Can I add other vegetables to the rice? Yes, adding peas or bell peppers to the turmeric rice would enhance the flavor and color.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the salmon and cream sauce in advance, but it’s best to cook the rice fresh.