Forget boring baked salmon recipes! Let's ditch the predictable and delve into a vibrant tango of flavors. Imagine tender salmon basking in a honey-mustard marinade, nestled on a bed of roasted butternut squash, all dancing with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette and earthy spinach. This isn't just another baked salmon recipe, it's a flavor fiesta on your plate, ready to awaken your taste buds and steal the show at any dinner party.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 salmon fillets (6-8oz each)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 5 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 01
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Time to set the stage for this dazzling baked salmon recipe! Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- The aroma will fill your kitchen with the promise of a delicious baked salmon recipe to come!
STEP 02
- While the squash roasts, let's whip up a dance partner for our salmon!
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
- This honey-mustard marinade will add a touch of sweetness and tang to your baked salmon recipe, so give it some love!
STEP 03
- Drizzle each salmon fillet with the marinade and let it soak up the flavor for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, just until golden brown.
- Remember, we're not aiming for cooked-through yet – that's where the oven takes over in our baked salmon recipe!
STEP 04
- Now, assemble the stage for the grand finale!
- In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach and chopped red onion.
- Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
- This tangy dressing will be the life of the party in our baked salmon recipe, so dress it up with your best whisking skills!
STEP 05
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the spinach and onion, tossing gently to coat.
- Transfer the spinach salad onto plates.
- Top each bed with a roasted butternut squash dollop, followed by a seared salmon fillet.
- Spoon any remaining honey-mustard marinade over the salmon for an extra flavor punch.
STEP 06
- Transfer the plates to the preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking.
- Garnish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional) and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper for a final touch of elegance, and voila!
- Your baked salmon recipes masterpiece is complete, ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.
You may like to try this baked salmon recipe as well: Baked Salmon Recipe with Butternut Squash Risotto
PERSONAL RECIPE EXPERIENCE
This Baked Salmon with Butternut Squash recipe has become a go-to crowd-pleaser in my kitchen. The combination of sweet, caramelized squash, tender salmon, tangy salad, and a perfectly balanced vinaigrette is simply irresistible. It's a dish that feels light and healthy yet undeniably satisfying, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you're hosting a special gathering. My guests always ask for the Salmon butternut squash recipe, amazed by the flavor explosion on their plates!
EXTRA TIPS:
- For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the honey-mustard marinade.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese or toasted walnuts for added texture and richness.
- Leftover salmon and salad components? Assemble them into lunch wraps for a delicious and healthy midday meal.
HEALTH BENEFITS
This baked salmon recipe isn't just about indulgence, it's packed with goodness! Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber. Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. And the balsamic vinaigrette? It adds a healthy dose of antioxidants. So feel good about indulging in this baked salmon recipe, knowing you're nourishing your body and soul!
NOTE
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets and the size of your butternut squash cubes. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed for your perfect baked salmon recipes.
CONCLUSION
This Baked Salmon with Butternut Squash Recipe is more than just a Butternut Squash Recipe. It's an invitation to savor the season's bounty, to enjoy a light and flavorful meal, and to celebrate the simple pleasures of good food. So gather your loved ones, fire up your oven, and let the dance of sweet and savory begin!
For more baked salmon recipes like this: Have a quick look!