Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with this mouthwatering Salmon with Green Beans and Spinach Pesto in Foil recipe! Imagine diving into a tender, flaky salmon fillet topped with a vibrant, creamy spinach pesto, nestled alongside crisp green beans – all effortlessly cooked in a convenient foil packet. This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines incredible flavors, nutrition, and convenience in one stunning dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Healthy
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center.
- Prepare the spinach pesto by combining spinach, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
- Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil, approximately 12x16 inches each. Lightly brush the center of each foil piece with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Trim the green beans and wash them thoroughly. Place the green beans in the center of each foil piece, creating a small bed for the salmon.
- Place one seasoned salmon fillet on top of the green beans in each foil packet.
- Spread a generous layer of spinach pesto over the top of each salmon fillet, ensuring even coverage.
- Carefully fold and seal the foil packets, creating a tight but loose envelope that allows steam to circulate.
- Transfer the foil packets to a baking sheet and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully open the foil packets, being mindful of the hot steam. Transfer the salmon and green beans to serving plates.
- Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and fresh cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh salmon fillets and crisp green beans. The quality of your ingredients makes a huge difference.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch the timing carefully. The fish is done when it reaches 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to swap pine nuts for walnuts or add fresh basil to your spinach pesto for extra flavor complexity.
- Foil Packet Technique: Ensure your foil packets are sealed well but leave some room for steam to circulate, creating a perfect cooking environment.
- Prep Ahead: You can assemble the foil packets earlier in the day and refrigerate, making dinnertime a breeze. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this dish with a light white wine or a crisp salad for a complete, restaurant-worthy meal at home.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 340kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
