If there’s one dish I cook when I want something healthy, comforting, and effortlessly elegant, it’s Baked Salmon With Spinach. This recipe was born on a quiet Sunday evening, when I wanted a nutritious meal without turning my kitchen into a disaster zone.
Thanks to the Air Fryer (AVP), this Baked Salmon With Spinach becomes a true weeknight hero: tender salmon, flaky and juicy, resting on a bed of garlicky spinach that melts in your mouth. Simple ingredients, clean flavors, and a result that feels restaurant-worthy — without the stress.
This is the kind of recipe that proves healthy food doesn’t have to be boring.
💚 Why This Baked Salmon With Spinach Is a Must-Try
Here’s why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
- ⚡ Ready in under 20 minutes
- 🐟 Rich in omega-3 and lean protein
- 🥬 Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
- 🍽️ Perfect for meal prep or elegant dinners
- 🧑🍳 Beginner-friendly with pro-level results
With the Air Fryer, the salmon stays juicy while the spinach absorbs all the savory flavors.
🛒 Ingredients for Baked Salmon With Spinach (AVP)
Main Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Lemon slices (optional)
Optional Flavor Boosters
- Grated Parmesan
- Red chili flakes
- Cream cheese (for a creamy spinach version)
Chef André’s Smart Substitutions
- No fresh spinach? Frozen spinach works (well-drained)
- Swap salmon for trout or Arctic char
- Dairy-free? Skip cheese and add nutritional yeast
🔪 Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1️⃣ Prep the Spinach
In a bowl, toss spinach with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. This creates a flavorful base that gently steams under the salmon.
2️⃣ Season the Salmon
Pat salmon dry. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add lemon slices on top if desired.
3️⃣ Assemble in the Air Fryer
Place spinach in the Air Fryer basket, then lay salmon fillets on top. Don’t overcrowd — airflow matters.
4️⃣ Air Fry (AVP)
- Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
- Time: 10–12 minutes
Salmon should flake easily and reach 145°F (63°C) internally.
💡 Chef’s Tip: Thicker fillets may need 1–2 extra minutes.
🌿 Creative Variations by Chef André
🧀 Creamy Spinach Version
Add dollops of cream cheese to the spinach before cooking.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Finish with chili oil or cayenne pepper.
🍋 Mediterranean Style
Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
⭐ Chef André’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Always pat salmon dry for better texture
- Avoid overcooking — salmon continues to cook after removal
- Add spinach under, not over, the salmon
- For extra color, broil 1–2 minutes if your AVP allows it
🍽️ What to Serve with Baked Salmon With Spinach
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Quinoa or brown rice
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Lemon couscous
- A simple cucumber salad
It’s also fantastic on its own for a low-carb dinner.
❄️ Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Reheating: Air Fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes
- Freezing: Salmon yes, spinach no (texture loss)
❓ FAQ – People Also Ask
Can I bake this in the oven instead of AVP?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Should I cook spinach beforehand?
No, it wilts perfectly during cooking.
How do I know salmon is done?
It flakes easily and reaches 145°F internally.
Can I use skin-on salmon?
Absolutely — place skin-side down.
🥗 Approximate Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Protein: ~34 g
- Fat: ~24 g
- Carbohydrates: ~6 g
(Values may vary depending on toppings.)
👨🍳 Conclusion by Chef André
This Baked Salmon With Spinach (AVP) is proof that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can create something truly special. It’s nourishing, elegant, and easy enough for busy nights — yet impressive enough for guests.
If you loved this recipe, leave a comment or rate it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
And for safe seafood cooking guidelines, always trust USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 🐟🥬🔥