Go Back
A delicious plate of Easy Baked Salmon with Spinach

Easy Baked Salmon with Spinach

A quick and healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe features tender baked salmon fillets atop a bed of vibrant spinach, seasoned with garlic, lemon, and olive oil. It's simple, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets fresh or thawed wild-caught, pat dry before seasoning
  • 6 cups fresh spinach preferably baby spinach, will wilt significantly when cooked
  • 3 cloves garlic cloves minced, adds a lovely aromatic base
  • 1 lemon lemon use half for juice in spinach, slice the other half for topping
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil helps coat spinach and distribute flavor
  • to taste tsp Salt season generously, but adjust to your dietary needs
  • to taste tsp Freshly ground black pepper adds a fresh, pungent kick to the dish
  • pinch tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a subtle warmth and spice

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper or Foil
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine fresh spinach with minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently with tongs until glossy and vibrant.
  3. Spread the spinach evenly on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding.
  4. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Place salmon fillets skin-side down on top of the spinach. Lay lemon slices on each fillet.
  6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The spinach should be wilted and tender.
  7. Check doneness by poking the thickest part of the salmon with a fork. Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa or roasted potatoes. For a different flavor profile, try adding a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley before serving.