If you are craving a dish that is both nourishing and bursting with Mediterranean charm, look no further than this Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe. It combines tender, juicy salmon fillets with creamy white beans and vibrant spinach, all cooked together in one pan for an effortless, comforting meal. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create an impressive Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe. Each component brings its own magic: the salmon lends rich protein, the spinach adds fresh color and nutrients, and the creamy beans create a luscious texture that bonds everything together.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the Mediterranean profile with its fruity aroma.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Tender and vibrant, spinach wilts quickly, adding a fresh green burst.
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or navy beans, rinsed: These creamy white beans provide a satisfying, hearty base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings rich depth and a subtle kick of warmth.
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Adds moisture and helps blend all the delicious flavors.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the dish with a zesty tang that balances the richness.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors to life.
How to Make Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Salmon
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Season each salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper. Place the fillets skin-side down (if your salmon has skin) and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and just cooked through. This step locks in the salmon’s natural juices and creates that irresistible crispy crust. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Beans
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn! Then stir in the rinsed cannellini or navy beans, along with the broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let this simmer gently for about 2 minutes. This simmering melds all the flavors and softens the beans just a little, preparing the base for your spinach and salmon to join.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach and Return the Salmon
Add your fresh baby spinach to the skillet, stirring until it just wilts but still retains its vibrant green color. This step happens fast, so keep the heat medium to medium-low. Finally, nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the pan among the spinach and beans. Let everything warm together for a minute or two—this ensures that the flavors meld perfectly without overcooking the salmon.
How to Serve Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of freshly chopped dill or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese on top really elevate this dish. The dill adds a gentle, herbaceous brightness, while Parmesan lends a salty, nutty finish. If you like a bit of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Side Dishes
While this recipe shines wonderfully on its own as a one-pan meal, you can pair it with a simple side of crusty artisan bread to soak up every last drop of that flavorful bean and spinach sauce. For a heartier meal, serve with a lemon-herb quinoa or a warm farro salad to complement the Mediterranean feel.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation at your next dinner party, plate each salmon fillet atop a vibrant mound of the spinach and white bean mixture. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a fresh, colorful touch. Serving this dish family-style in the skillet right at the table also adds a rustic, inviting vibe that’s hard to beat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The salmon will remain moist, and the beans and spinach will keep their flavors, making it easy to enjoy a quick meal the next day without losing any of the original charm.
Freezing
While the white beans and spinach freeze well, salmon is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor. If you choose to freeze, wrap the leftovers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat your Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave at reduced power to avoid drying out the fish. Adding a splash of broth or a drizzle of olive oil while reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess water in the dish, which can dilute the flavors and texture.
What type of salmon works best for this recipe?
Either wild-caught or farmed salmon fillets work, but wild-caught tends to have a more robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean ingredients. Choose center-cut fillets for even cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, simply omit the salmon and add extra white beans or roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to keep it hearty and satisfying. Use vegetable broth to keep the flavors aligned.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the main ingredients in this Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check your broth label to be certain.
How can I add more spice or heat?
If you’re in the mood for some heat, sprinkling in some red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté or serving the dish with a spiced harissa sauce on the side adds a lovely kick without overwhelming the dish’s delicate flavors.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe enough—it’s a beautiful balance of fresh ingredients and simple techniques that result in a deeply satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding loved ones, this dish brings wholesome nutrition and vibrant flavor to your table with very little fuss. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
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Salmon with Spinach & White Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A Mediterranean-inspired one-pan dinner featuring juicy salmon fillets nestled in creamy spinach and white beans — healthy, quick, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Vegetables & Beans
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini or navy beans, rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Seasoning
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for searing the salmon.
- Season and sear salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add beans and liquids: Stir in the rinsed cannellini or navy beans, low-sodium broth, and lemon juice. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Wilt spinach and combine: Stir in the baby spinach until wilted. Return the cooked salmon fillets to the pan and warm through for a minute more.
Notes
- Add red-pepper flakes for a light kick.
- Delicious with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh dill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
