Baked salmon with spinach garnish

Oven-baked salmon with spinach side - A simple, delicious, and healthy recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of refined flavors and healthy dishes! Today, I will guide you step by step in making oven-baked salmon with a spinach side, a recipe that is not only simple but also packed with nutritional benefits. Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart and brain health. And spinach, with its wealth of vitamins and minerals, perfectly complements this dish.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 300 g)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (whole, freshly ground, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram
- Juice from one fresh orange
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh spinach (approximately 300 g, for the side)
- Optional: a teaspoon of lemon juice and sesame seeds for decoration

A bit of history:

Salmon is a popular ingredient in kitchens around the world, valued not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional benefits. The combination of salmon with spinach is not just a modern choice, but also a meeting between tradition and innovation, with roots in fish and green vegetable dishes. Spinach, a staple food in many cultures, is known for its nutritional power, being rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.

Preparing the salmon:

1. Thawing: If you have frozen salmon, make sure to take it out of the freezer a few hours in advance and let it thaw slowly in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its texture and flavor.

2. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. A constant temperature is essential for evenly cooked fish.

3. Preparing the marinade: In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried marjoram. This marinade will add a fresh and citrusy note to your salmon.

4. Seasoning the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a heat-resistant dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the fish, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Let the salmon sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

5. Baking: Place the dish with the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The salmon is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Do not leave it too long, as it can become dry.

Preparing the spinach side:

1. Washing and preparing the spinach: Wash the spinach well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Place it in a pot of boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender.

2. Draining: After the spinach has softened, drain it well and let it cool slightly before chopping it finely. This will help blend the flavors.

3. Sautéing: In a pan, add a little olive oil and, if desired, a clove of garlic, minced. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, then add the chopped spinach and mix well. You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach is well incorporated.

Serving the dish:

Once the salmon is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the salmon fillets alongside the spinach side. Drizzle a bit of lemon juice on top and sprinkle sesame seeds for a more attractive appearance. A fresh red cabbage salad can perfectly complement this dish, bringing a crunchy contrast and a note of freshness.

Serving suggestions:

For a complete meal, you can add a side of mashed potatoes or basmati rice, both excellent accompaniments to salmon. A recommended drink would be a dry white wine or, for a non-alcoholic option, a cold citrus tea.

Tips and variations:

If you don’t have marjoram, you can use oregano or thyme – both add delicious flavors. Also, for a spicier version, add a few chili flakes to the marinade. Instead of spinach, you can use arugula or kale, and for an extra nutritional boost, add some nuts or seeds.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, frozen salmon is perfect for this recipe; just make sure it is properly thawed.

2. How long does cooked salmon last? Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat it in the oven or in a pan.

3. What other vegetables can I use as a side? Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini are all wonderful options that pair well with salmon.

Nutritional benefits:

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins B12, D, and selenium. Spinach, on the other hand, is rich in antioxidants and fiber, being low in calories. A serving of this dish has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the oil used and the sides.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I can only wish you a good appetite! This oven-baked salmon recipe with spinach side is not only a delicious option for a family meal, but also a healthy choice that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Cook with love and enjoy every bite!