Indulge in a creamy, savory delight with this Creamy Salmon and Broccoli Bake. This dish combines tender salmon chunks, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner that’s both nutritious and delicious. Let’s get started on this wonderful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1 paprika (bell pepper)
- 4 tomatoes
- 1 bunch of basil
- 1 cup of cream (20-30%)
- 0.45 lb asparagus
- 0.65 lb broccoli
- 0.65 lb salmon
- 2.5 oz mozzarella, shredded
- Butter
- Salt and mixed pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Chop the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion, garlic, and paprika.
- Dice the tomatoes.
- Trim and cut the asparagus and broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- Cut the salmon into chunks.
- Shred the mozzarella cheese.
Step 2: Cooking the Vegetables
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, melt a knob of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add Paprika and Tomatoes:
- Add the chopped paprika and tomatoes, cooking until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Cook Asparagus and Broccoli:
- Stir in the asparagus and broccoli, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
Step 3: Creating the Sauce
- Add the Cream:
- Pour the cream into the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
- Add salt and mixed pepper to taste.
- Simmer:
- Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Assembling the Bake
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Transfer the vegetable and cream mixture to a baking dish.
- Add the Salmon:
- Evenly distribute the salmon chunks over the vegetable mixture.
- Top with Mozzarella:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top.
Step 5: Baking
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serving
- Garnish:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve hot and enjoy your creamy salmon and broccoli bake!
Tips for Success
- Uniform Chopping: Ensure that all vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality salmon and vegetables for the best flavor.
- Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to use other types of cheese like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Health Benefits
This dish is packed with nutrients. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Broccoli and asparagus provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the creamy sauce adds a delicious richness without being overly heavy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before using it in the recipe.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Q: What can I serve with this bake?
A: This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal.
This Creamy Salmon and Broccoli Bake is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce and flavorful ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious dish and explore more of our recipes for additional culinary inspiration!