Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spinach:
- 1 pound fresh spinach leaves, washed and trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Salmon: a. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. b. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. c. Brush the salmon fillets evenly with the lemon and oregano mixture, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
- Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet with the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets, so keep an eye on them.
- Prepare the Spinach: a. While the salmon is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. b. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. c. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, allowing it to wilt down. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is tender and wilted. Remove from heat.
- Serve: a. Once the salmon is done baking, remove it from the oven. b. Divide the sautéed spinach among four plates or arrange it on a serving platter. c. Place the baked salmon fillets on top of the spinach. d. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious baked salmon with spinach immediately. The flavorful salmon pairs perfectly with the sautéed spinach, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: a. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. b. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add Cream and Lemon: a. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic-infused butter. b. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the sauce. Stir well to incorporate. c. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. d. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish the Dish: a. While the sauce is simmering, continue with the previous steps to bake the salmon and sauté the spinach, as described in the previous recipe.
- Serve: a. Once everything is ready, drizzle the creamy lemon garlic butter sauce over the baked salmon and sautéed spinach.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley over the dish for added color and flavor (optional).
- Enjoy: Serve your baked salmon with spinach and creamy lemon garlic butter sauce immediately. The luscious sauce pairs beautifully with the salmon and spinach, creating a delightful and indulgent meal.
This creamy lemon garlic butter sauce adds a luxurious touch to your dish, making it a perfect blend of rich and zesty flavors. Enjoy your mouthwatering meal!
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Baked salmon and spinach make for a healthy, elegant, and easy-to-prepare dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.