The aroma of sizzling garlic and onions fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite weeknight recipe: Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss. This dish is a game-changer, seamlessly combining flaky salmon with a creamy, garlicky spinach layer that’s topped with bubbly mozzarella. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a low-carb, heart-healthy meal that’s both satisfying and impressive enough for entertaining. Whether you’re diving into a cozy family dinner or looking to please guests with a showstopper, this recipe checks all the boxes. Ready to transform your weeknight dinners? Let’s get cooking! Why is this Salmon Recipe a Must-Try? Deliciously Unique: This Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss features a creamy, flavorful spinach crust that elevates traditional salmon dishes. Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into your busy weeknight schedule. Health-Conscious: Low-carb and heart-healthy, this dish provides a nutritious meal without compromising on taste. Versatile Ingredients: Substitute spinach with kale or vary your cheese choices to customize flavors as you please—try pairing with Mediterranean Salmon Bowl for another twist! Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, the golden, bubbly crust is visually stunning and will impress everyone at your table. Flavor Explosion: The savory blend of garlic, creamy cheese, and fresh ingredients makes each bite a delightful experience you won’t forget! Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Ingredients For the Salmon • Salmon Fillet – Main protein delivering a rich, buttery flavor; ensure freshness for the best results. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for a balanced flavor profile. For the Spinach Mixture • Spinach – Adds moisture and nutrition; use thawed frozen spinach for convenience or fresh if available. • Onion – Enhances flavor through sautéing; either yellow or white onions can work well. • Garlic – Fresh minced garlic maximizes flavor; dried garlic is a quicker alternative if needed. • Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess to the spinach; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. For the Topping • Mozzarella – Forms a gooey, delightful topping; try Gouda or other cheeses for a different flavor. For Cooking • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing aromatics; can be substituted with canola or grapeseed oil for a different taste. This Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss is truly a delightful centerpiece that brightens up any dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss Step 1: Sauté Aromatics In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 sliced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally. Next, incorporate 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic base will enhance the flavors of your Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss. Step 2: Add Spinach Fold in 1 cup of thawed and drained spinach into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Off the heat, mix in ½ cup of sour cream until well combined, creating a creamy spinach mixture that will be the luscious layer in your dish. Step 3: Prepare Salmon Preheat your oven to 175°C (347°F). While the oven heats up, season 2 salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. In the same skillet, sear the fillets for about 2 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. This quick searing step locks in moisture, ensuring your salmon stays tender and juicy during baking. Step 4: Assemble Dish Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and place the seared salmon fillets skin-side down. Generously layer the creamy spinach mixture over the top of the salmon fillets, making sure to cover them completely. Finally, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the spinach, forming a bubbly topping that will turn golden as it bakes. Step 5: Bake Transfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the salmon—it’s ready when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This final baking step allows the mozzarella to melt and bubble, creating an inviting and delicious crust for your Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss. Step 6: Serve Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully plate the salmon alongside the remaining spinach mixture. This dish is perfect served with your favorite sides—enjoy the blend of flavors and the delightful textures in every bite! Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss Variations Don’t hesitate to explore fantastic options that will personalize this comforting dish and make it uniquely yours! Kale Swap: Replace spinach with kale for a slightly different texture and extra nutrients that pack a flavorful punch. Cheese Change: Switch mozzarella for Gouda or Parmesan to elevate your cheese game with a deeper flavor profile. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the spinach mixture for a delightful herbal twist that brightens up each bite. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes into the spinach mix for a subtle heat that warms the soul, making it more vibrant. Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, healthier version that still provides irresistible creaminess. Nut Crust: Top with chopped almonds or walnuts before baking for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft salmon. Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest over the dish before baking infuses it with fresh, zesty notes, making the flavors dance. Mediterranean Mix: Pair with ingredients like feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes in the spinach for a Mediterranean flavor twist reminiscent of a Mediterranean Salmon Bowl. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own version of Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss! Expert Tips for Baked Salmon Perfect Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for the best texture and flavor. Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon and produce when available; it significantly enhances the taste of your Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss. Moisture Retention: Slightly undercook the salmon during the searing step to lock in moisture, allowing it to finish cooking gently in the oven. Creamy Consistency: Mix the spinach well with sour cream or Greek yogurt off the heat to achieve a creamy, flavorful layer that complements the salmon perfectly. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan along with mozzarella for a unique, flavorful twist on your baked dish. What to Serve with Irresistible Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss Creating a memorable meal is easy when you know the perfect pairings to elevate your dish. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of fluffy mashed potatoes provides a delightful contrast to the flaky salmon. This classic side creates a comforting, hearty balance on your plate. Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens add a refreshing crunch alongside your rich salmon. Consider adding a zesty vinaigrette to brighten the flavors. Lemon-Infused Quinoa: This nutritious and protein-rich grain offers a light alternative that harmonizes beautifully with the seasoned flavors of the salmon and spinach. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection enhance the dish with earthy notes, while their vibrant color adds visual appeal to your meal. Herbed Couscous: The light and fluffy texture of couscous, paired with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, blends wonderfully with the creamy spinach, creating a lovely medley. White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, refreshing beverage like a white wine spritzer adds a bubbly touch that complements the salmon without overpowering its delicate flavor. Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, consider a light fruit sorbet that cleanses the palate and offers a sweet, refreshing finish to your meal after the rich salmon. These pairings not only enhance the flavors of the Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss but also create a well-rounded, delightful dining experience! How to Store and Freeze Baked Salmon Fridge: Store any leftover Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the salmon dish wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven at 175°C (347°F) until heated through—this helps preserve the delicious texture. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the spinach mixture in advance, storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking the Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss. Make Ahead Options These Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy spinach mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to save valuable time during busy weeknights. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, fold in the spinach and sour cream, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To ensure the salmon remains moist, it’s best to season and sear it right before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, place the salmon in a greased baking dish, top with the prepped spinach, sprinkle mozzarella, and bake until golden and bubbly. This way, you’ll serve up deliciousness with minimal hassle! Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best salmon fillet? Absolutely! When selecting salmon fillets, look for vibrant coloring and a moist appearance. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong fishy odor; these are signs of staleness. Fresh salmon should have a firm texture and should not feel slimy. If you’re unsure, ask your fishmonger for recommendations on the freshest catch of the day. What is the best way to store leftovers? Very good question! Store leftover Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh, ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing it. If you plan on eating leftovers later, consider freezing them instead. Can I freeze this salmon dish? Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap your Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will help guard against freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 175°C (347°F) until heated through to retain its delightful texture. What should I do if my salmon seems overcooked? Don’t worry! If your salmon is overcooked, it can dry out and become tough. For future reference, using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) ensures perfectly cooked salmon every time. If you find yourself in a pinch, serve the salmon with a generous dollop of sour cream or a light sauce to add moisture back into the dish. Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Absolutely! This dish is low-carb and heart-healthy, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals. If you are concerned about dairy, you can substitute the sour cream with non-dairy yogurt or a creamy plant-based alternative. For those with seafood allergies, this recipe can be adapted using a firm white fish like cod or tilapia instead of salmon. Always check ingredient labels if you’re cooking for specific allergies. Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss in 40 Minutes This Baked Salmon with Spinach and Mozzarella Bliss features flaky salmon topped with creamy spinach and melted mozzarella, making it a game-changer for weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon2 fillets Salmon Fillet Ensure freshness for the best resultsto taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Spinach Mixture1 cup Spinach Use thawed frozen spinach for convenience or fresh if available1 medium Onion Can use yellow or white onions2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic maximizes flavor½ cup Sour Cream Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier optionFor the Topping1 cup Mozzarella Try Gouda or other cheeses for a different flavorFor Cooking1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be substituted with canola or grapeseed oil Equipment skilletBaking Dishoven Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent, stirring occasionally.Incorporate minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.Fold in spinach into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Off the heat, mix in sour cream until well combined.Preheat your oven to 175°C. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Sear the fillets in the same skillet for about 2 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms.Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and place the seared salmon fillets skin-side down. Layer the creamy spinach mixture over the salmon fillets. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the spinach.Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes. Plate the salmon alongside the remaining spinach mixture and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1filletCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesUse a meat thermometer to ensure your salmon reaches an internal temperature of 63°C for the best texture and flavor. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the taste of the dish. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
