This flavorful dish pairs perfectly seared salmon with a rich Parmesan cream sauce and vibrant turmeric rice. The combination of creamy, garlicky salmon with the earthy, spiced rice makes it a gourmet meal that is simple to prepare yet feels luxurious. Whether for a special dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish offers an irresistible balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs. It’s healthy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients (Serves 2):
- 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)
- 25 g butter (for richness)
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
- 30 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- 70-100 g spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 ml dry white wine
- 200 ml 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 (200 g) rice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color and flavor)
- 2 cups (500 ml) water
Directions:
- Step 1: 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.
- Step 2: Prepare the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat 2 tablespoons 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.
- Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 25 g butter. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the cream, spinach, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the fish. Cook for another minute to warm through.
- Step 4: Serve:
- Plate the turmeric rice and top with the Parmesan cream sauce-covered salmon.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a truly indulgent experience.
- Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal.
- A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the rice adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the salmon is cooked through but still moist; check with a fork for flakiness.
- Use fresh spinach for the best texture, but frozen spinach works too.
- If you want a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of the lighter 15-20% cream.
- Make the turmeric rice a day ahead to save time on busy evenings.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice for your desired level of tanginess.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy.
- Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants.
- Spinach is high in iron, vitamin C, and folate, contributing to overall health.
- Parmesan provides a dose of calcium for healthy bones.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free if prepared as instructed.
- Dairy: Contains dairy from the cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Nut-free.
- Low-carb: This meal is low in carbs, especially when served without bread or high-carb sides.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
Storage:
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick to prepare, yet impressively flavorful and rich.
- The creamy Parmesan sauce elevates the salmon, making it a luxurious yet easy meal.
- The turmeric rice is aromatic, colorful, and complements the salmon perfectly.
- Perfect for a cozy dinner, family meal, or elegant weeknight treat.
Conclusion: This Salmon with Parmesan Cream Sauce & Turmeric Rice recipe is a delightful, satisfying meal that brings together bold flavors and rich textures. The combination of tender salmon, creamy sauce, and vibrant rice will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, it’s a dish that’s both elegant and approachable. The nutritional benefits of salmon and turmeric add an extra layer of appeal, making this a meal you can feel good about.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
- Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon before cooking for even cooking.
- Can I substitute the white wine in the sauce?
- Yes, you can use vegetable broth or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
- How do I store the leftovers?
- Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- The rice and salmon sauce can be prepared in advance, but it’s best to cook the salmon fresh for the best texture.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
- You can use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese of your choice.
- Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, you can add other vegetables like peas, asparagus, or bell peppers to the sauce or as a side dish.
- Can I use non-dairy cream?
- Yes, you can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version.
- How can I make the rice spicier?
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the rice while sautéing the vegetables.
- Can I make the sauce without wine?
- Yes, simply skip the wine and use an extra splash of lemon juice or a little vegetable broth.
- How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
- The salmon should flake easily with a fork and should be opaque in the center