There's something irresistibly comforting about the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, signaling that a delicious meal is just moments away. I discovered this delightful recipe for Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella during a cozy evening at home, where I wanted to whip up something vibrant yet satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish has quickly become a weeknight favorite.
Imagine the tender salmon fillets, perfectly complemented by sautéed spinach and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese bubbling away in the oven. It’s an elegant combination that feels fancy but comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this meal promises to impress, turning any ordinary night into something special.
So, if you're ready to elevate your dinner routine and escape the realm of fast food, join me in making this delightful Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella. Let’s transform your kitchen into a sanctuary of flavor!
Why You'll Love This Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella
- This Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle.
- The flavors meld beautifully, with the richness of salmon, the earthiness of spinach, and the creaminess of mozzarella creating a mouthwatering experience.
- It's also a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite herbs or sides, allowing you to add your personal touch.
- The stunning presentation, with vibrant green spinach and melted cheese atop perfectly baked salmon, will impress anyone at your table.
- Like a culinary masterpiece, this dish elevates your dinner game while keeping cook time to just over half an hour.
Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Ingredients
For the Salmon
• 4 skinless salmon fillets – each weighing about 6 oz, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the salmon; adjust according to taste.
For the Spinach
• 4 cups baby spinach – it adds a fresh and vibrant element that complements the richness of the salmon.
• 4 garlic cloves – minced to infuse the dish with aromatic goodness when sautéed.
For the Topping
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese – torn into pieces for a melty, gooey finish that takes this dish to the next level.
For Seasoning
• 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – used for sautéing and drizzling, adding a fruity flavor and healthy fats.
• 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – brightens the dish, enhancing the flavors of the salmon with a zesty kick.
How to Make Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, making the process smoother for you!
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Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. This combination will make the salmon flavorful and moist.
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until it's fragrant, then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. The garlic and spinach will create a lovely aroma!
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Spoon the sautéed spinach over each salmon fillet and top them with pieces of mozzarella cheese. This creates a delightful layer of cheesy goodness that will melt beautifully in the oven.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the mozzarella is bubbly and golden. The timing is key to achieving that perfect texture!
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Serve immediately, drizzling with additional lemon juice if desired for an extra burst of flavor. This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella
Fridge: Store any leftover Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors stay fresh.
Freezer: If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again.
Storage Tip: Always cool the dish completely before placing it in the fridge or freezer to maintain the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella?
Elevate your delightful salmon dish with complementary flavors and textures that round out the meal beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes adds a comforting contrast to the flaky salmon.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra olive oil and lemon juice.
- Roasted Asparagus: This vibrant veggie offers a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor, making an ideal pairing with the rich salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, this salad adds a healthy touch with a pop of color.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs balances the flavors of the salmon while providing a satisfying base.
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay enhances the dish's creamy mozzarella with its crisp acidity, making each bite sing.
- Lemon Sorbet: This light and zesty dessert cleanses the palate after the savory main course, leaving a refreshing finish.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and slightly crunchy, steamed broccoli provides both a visual pop and a healthy side option.
These pairings will create a stunning and satisfying dinner experience that sets your table apart!
Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists that add flavor and fun!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives to keep the creaminess while accommodating lactose sensitivity. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil into the sautéed spinach for an aromatic lift. These herbs complement the salmon beautifully, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salmon before baking. This little addition will bring a vibrant warmth to every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the cheesy spinach with toasted pine nuts or walnuts before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft salmon and melting cheese.
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Lemon Zest Boost: Incorporate lemon zest into the olive oil drizzle for a zesty brightness. It brightens the flavor profile and makes the dish even more vibrant!
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Mixed Greens Twist: Replace fresh spinach with kale or arugula for a unique flavor profile that lends earthiness or pepperiness to the dish. Kale offers a heartier texture that will stand up well alongside the salmon.
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Tomato Burst: Add sliced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes atop the salmon before the cheese for a burst of tangy sweetness that complements the richness of the dish.
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Mediterranean Spin: Mix in olives or artichoke hearts with the spinach for a Mediterranean flair. These additions enrich the dish with bold flavors, making each bite an adventure.
Make Ahead Options
These Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can prep the salmon fillets with the seasoning and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The sautéed spinach can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just ensure it cools completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you're ready to cook, place the prepped salmon on a baking sheet, top with the spinach and mozzarella, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your salmon with spinach and mozzarella turns out perfectly, always use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the salmon and mozzarella, as they significantly impact flavor and texture.
- When seasoning, it's better to start with less salt and pepper; you can always add more later, but it's hard to fix a dish that's too salty.
- For even cooking, make sure the salmon fillets are roughly the same size, allowing them to bake uniformly without some drying out while others are undercooked.
- Keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes; fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork, usually around 15-20 minutes at 375°F, to avoid overcooking which can make it dry.
Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best salmon?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon, look for fillets that have a bright pink or orange color, which indicates freshness. The flesh should be moist and resilient to the touch, with no dark spots or a fishy smell. If possible, ask your fishmonger for the freshest catch available!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very easy! Store any leftover Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, follow the freezing instructions below to enjoy it later.
Can I freeze Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella?
Of course! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge—this keeps it safe and helps maintain its texture.
What should I do if my salmon is dry after baking?
Don't worry; it happens to the best of us! If your salmon turns out dry, next time try reducing the baking time or adding a splash more olive oil before cooking to keep it moist. Another great tip is to keep an eye on the salmon as it bakes—remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork, usually between 15-20 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Definitely! If you or your guests have dairy allergies, you can substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply skip the cheese altogether. The dish will still be delicious with just the garlic sautéed spinach atop the salmon. Always ensure to read labels for any packaged substitutes to confirm they're allergy-friendly.
Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Spoon the sautéed spinach over each salmon fillet and top them with pieces of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the mozzarella is bubbly and golden.
- Serve immediately, drizzling with additional lemon juice if desired.
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