Introduction:
Have you ever wondered how to create a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that feels gourmet but is easy enough to make on a busy weeknight? Look no further! This recipe for Delicious and Tender Fish in a Spicy Spinach Sauce fits the bill and will impress your family and friends with its rich flavours and elegant presentation. Dive into this blog post to discover how to elevate your dinner game effortlessly.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of salmon
- Salt and pepper
- One pear
- Two cloves of garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 250 g of pasta
- Olive oil
- 300 g of spinach
- Chicken broth
- Two tablespoons of cream cheese
- Thyme
- Sugar (to taste)
How to Make:
- Preparing the Salmon:
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
- Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
- Cooking the Salmon:
- Heat olive oil in a pan.
- Fry the salmon on both sides until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Making the Sauce:
- In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.
- Add a teaspoon of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the lemon juice and let it reduce over high heat.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour some chicken broth to deglaze, and add more liquid to the sauce.
- Stir in the cream cheese to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and thyme to taste.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning by adding sugar to balance the flavours.
- Cooking the Pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Assembly:
- Return the salmon to the pan with the sauce and let it warm slightly.
- Serve the salmon and sauce over a bed of hot pasta.
Helpful Tips:
- Ensure the salmon is fresh for the best taste.
- Make sure to cook the salmon to keep it tender and moist.
- Use high-quality olive oil for a richer flavour.
- Add the spinach gradually if your pan is small to let it wilt properly.
Substitutions/Variations:
- Fish: You can substitute salmon with other types of fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia.
- Greens: Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavour profile.
- Pasta: Use whole wheat, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
- Cream Cheese: Replace with Greek yoghurt or sour cream for a tangier sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen salmon?
- Yes, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
- How can I make the sauce spicier?
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the sauce and salmon ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat gently before serving.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the cooked salmon and sauce in separate airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion: