Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish lightly.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Arrange them in the greased dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until it loses its volume and wilts down.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmering for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season it as per your taste.
- Spoon the creamy spinach mixture evenly over the salmon fillets, then top generously with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbling. For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Allow it to rest for a few moments before serving, garnishing with red pepper flakes or fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tip: Pair your salmon with roasted potatoes, fluffy rice, or some crusty bread to soak up that delightful creamy sauce!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving this baked salmon is a chance to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Plating: Serve the salmon on a vibrant bed of sautéed vegetables for an eye-catching presentation.
- Side Dishes: Try roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad. They complement the richness of the dish nicely.
- Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of salmon and cheese.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To enjoy your leftovers safely, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Use the oven to reheat for the best texture. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture of the spinach may change upon thawing.
Extra Advice
Here are some tips to elevate your cooking game:
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme can enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses; feta or goat cheese can add a tangy twist.
- Cooking Salmon: Ensure you’re cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety and best results.
Creative Twists
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Here are some fun variations:
- Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
- Spice it Up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
FAQ
How long does this take to prepare?
Generally, prep and cooking time totals about 30 minutes, making it a quick dinner option.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a blend of milk and butter for a lighter version.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Cooked salmon can be stored and enjoyed over the next few days as part of your meal prep. Just remember to reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
With this easy but impressive Irresistible Baked Salmon with Spinach & Mozzarella Bliss, you’ll be serving up restaurant-quality fare from your own kitchen in no time!
