This Salmon with Creamy Spinach and Golden Rice recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will make you savor every bite. The salmon is perfectly pan-seared, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. Paired with a luxurious creamy spinach sauce and golden turmeric rice, this dish is both elegant and comforting. Let’s dive into the step-by-step preparation for this delectable meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 1 salmon fillet (suitable for 4 portions)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, as needed
- Extra virgin olive oil, as needed
- 1 oz (30 g) butter
- 1 oz (30 g) grated Parmesan
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 3.5 oz (100 g) fresh spinach
- 6.8 fl oz (200 ml) milk cream
- 2 sprigs thyme
For the Golden Rice:
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 cup (200 g) rice
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Turmeric, to taste
- 2 glasses of water (about 400 ml)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Salmon
- Cut and season:
Gently cut the salmon fillet into 4 equal portions, ensuring uniformity in size. Season each portion generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the seasoning to penetrate the flesh for a few minutes.
2. Pan-Searing Perfection
- Heat the pan:
Drizzle a hint of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, carefully place the seasoned salmon portions in the pan. - Sear the salmon:
Sear the salmon for approximately 2 minutes on each side, aiming for a golden crust while preserving the tender juiciness inside. Once seared, remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
3. Flavorful Infusion
- Prepare aromatics:
While the salmon rests, thinly slice 1/2 onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic. Slice 1 lemon, retaining the zest for added flavor.
4. Creamy Spinach Sensation
- Melt the butter and sauté:
In a separate pan, melt 1 oz (30 g) of butter with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan, sautéing them until softened and fragrant. - Add spinach:
Introduce 3.5 oz (100 g) of fresh spinach to the pan. Stir gently as it wilts into vibrant green ribbons, releasing its natural flavors.
5. The Sauce Unveiled
- Create the sauce:
Pour 6.8 fl oz (200 ml) of milk cream into the pan, followed by 1 oz (30 g) of grated Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently, thickening to a luxurious consistency.
6. Harmonizing Flavors
- Add thyme and salmon:
Add 2 sprigs of fresh thyme to the creamy spinach sauce for depth and aroma. Gently nestle the seared salmon portions into the sauce, spooning some of the sauce over the salmon to coat it evenly. Let the salmon simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors together.
7. Rice Elegance
- Sauté the vegetables:
In another pan, heat a small amount of oil and sauté 1 grated carrot and 1/2 finely chopped onion until they are soft and caramelized. - Cook the rice:
Add 1 cup (200 g) of rice to the pan, stirring to coat each grain with the oil and vegetables. Season with turmeric to taste, adding a glorious golden hue to the rice. - Add water and simmer:
Pour in 2 glasses of water (about 400 ml) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer gently until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked to fluffy perfection.
8. Plate with Panache
- Assemble the dish:
On each plate, shape a portion of the golden turmeric rice into a dome using a small bowl or mold. Place a salmon fillet atop the rice, then generously ladle the creamy spinach sauce over the salmon and around the plate. - Garnish:
Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves and a lemon slice for an added burst of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Savor
- Enjoy the masterpiece:
Serve the dish hot and enjoy the symphony of flavors as the tender salmon, creamy spinach, and fragrant rice come together in perfect harmony. Each bite should melt in your mouth, leaving you craving more.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 600 kcal
- Total Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
Conclusion
This Melt-in-Your-Mouth Salmon with Creamy Spinach and Golden Rice is an extraordinary dish that combines tenderness, flavor, and visual appeal. The richness of the creamy spinach sauce, paired with the vibrant turmeric rice, creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and gourmet. Perfect for any occasion, this dish will undoubtedly impress anyone fortunate enough to share it with you. Enjoy the delight of creating and savoring this mouthwatering meal!
