Imagine a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon, the vibrant green of fresh spinach, and the comforting texture of perfectly cooked rice. This Salmon and Spinach Rice Gratin is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of flavors that brings together nutrition and indulgence in one beautiful dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.
Ingredients
- Rice: 200g (7 oz / 1 cup) basmati or long grain rice
- Salmon: 400g (14 oz) fresh, skinless salmon fillet
- Spinach: 300g (10.5 oz) fresh spinach (or frozen, well-drained)
- Cream: 250ml (8.4 fl oz) crème fraîche or full-fat single cream
- Shallot: 1, finely chopped
- Olive Oil or Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz) grated Emmental, mozzarella, or Comté
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, nutmeg (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Cook rice in salted water according to package instructions
- Drain and set aside
2. Prepare the Spinach
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet
- Sauté finely chopped shallot until softened
- Add spinach and let it wilt for a few minutes
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired
3. Prepare the Salmon
- Cut salmon fillet into cubes
- Option 1: Quickly sear in a pan
- Option 2: Leave raw to cook in the oven
4. Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Cooked rice
- Prepared spinach
- Salmon cubes
- Crème fraîche
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice
- Transfer mixture to a gratin dish
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20-25 minutes
- Cook until golden brown and salmon is cooked through
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Highlights (per serving)
- High in Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon
- Rich in protein
- Excellent source of vitamins A and K from spinach
- Moderate carbohydrates from rice
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
This Salmon and Spinach Rice Gratin is a nutritional powerhouse. Salmon is renowned for its heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain function and reduce inflammation. Spinach adds a nutritional boost with its high content of iron, vitamins, and antioxidants. The combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense vegetables makes this dish an ideal balanced meal.
Pro Tip
For a lighter version, you can substitute crème fraîche with Greek yogurt or use a mix of both to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot directly from the oven
- Pair with a crisp green salad
- Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley
A perfect blend of flavors and nutrition, this Salmon and Spinach Rice Gratin is sure to become a family favorite!