Imagine a dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary adventure that combines the rich, buttery texture of perfectly baked salmon with the exotic allure of black rice. This Oven Baked Salmon with Black Rice isn't just another dinner recipe - it's a restaurant-quality experience you can create right in your own kitchen. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vibrant flavors, and a stunning presentation, this recipe will elevate your home cooking game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup black rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil.
- Rinse the black rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the black rice with water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35-40 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Arrange lemon slices on the prepared baking sheet and place salmon fillets on top of the lemon slices. This will infuse the fish with citrus flavor and prevent sticking.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and divide among four plates.
- Carefully transfer the baked salmon fillets onto the black rice. Garnish with fresh dill and additional lemon slices if desired.
- Serve immediately while the salmon is hot and the rice is warm. Enjoy your nutritious and flavorful meal!
Tips
- Choose high-quality salmon: Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon with a bright, consistent color and firm texture.
- Rice perfection: Rinse black rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy, separate grain texture.
- Temperature matters: Use an instant-read thermometer to check salmon doneness - it should reach 145°F internally for perfect, moist fish.
- Lemon trick: Placing lemon slices under the salmon not only prevents sticking but infuses a subtle citrus flavor throughout the fish.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Use fresh dill just before serving to add a bright, aromatic finish to your dish.
- Timing is key: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after baking to help it retain its moisture and ensure maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
