Looking for a dinner that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition? Look no further! Our Perfect Baked Salmon Lentils recipe combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with the hearty goodness of lentils, creating a Mediterranean masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this mouthwatering dish that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your health. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to be a hit at your table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the salmon while allowing the lentils to cook evenly.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dust or impurities.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the lentils simmer for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the lentils are cooking, prepare the salmon fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over the fillets for added flavor.
- Once the lentils are cooked, remove them from the heat and drain any excess liquid if necessary. Fluff the lentils with a fork and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Push the lentils to one side of the baking sheet and place the seasoned salmon fillets on the other side. This allows the flavors to meld while baking.
- Bake the salmon and lentils in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon is baking, prepare fresh parsley by chopping it finely for garnish.
- Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the salmon rest for a minute before serving.
- To serve, place a generous portion of lentils on each plate, top with a salmon fillet, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Perfect Baked Salmon Lentils as a nutritious and delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, select fresh salmon fillets. Look for bright, moist flesh with no strong fishy smell.
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the lentils well to remove any dust or impurities. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste and texture.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with the seasonings! Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne can enhance the flavors even more.
- Check Salmon for Doneness: To ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked, use a fork to check if it flakes easily. If it does, it's ready to serve!
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! A sprinkle on top not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prep! Cook a larger batch of lentils and salmon, and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Pair with a Side Salad: For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a light side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar. It adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty salmon and lentils.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
