Ingredients
Salmon and Spice Rub
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb. salmon filet, cut into 2-3 pieces
Basil Sauce
- 1/2 cup packed fresh basil
- 1 small bunch of fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 cup mayo (more as needed to keep it creamy)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- small pinch of salt, to taste
Tomato Salad
- 1 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 ears sweet corn, cut off the cob
- 1-2 cups fresh spinach or spring greens
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced chives or parsley
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice or grains (precooked recommended for ease)
Instructions
- Prep the tomato salad: Halve the cherry tomatoes, cut the sweet corn off the cob, and combine with fresh spinach or spring greens. Toss with olive oil, minced chives or parsley, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Set aside while preparing the rest of the meal.
- Make the basil sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil, fresh chives, optional dried oregano, garlic clove, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a small pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is almost completely smooth, leaving a few flecks of herbs for texture. Adjust seasoning and mayo quantity for desired creaminess.
- Prep the salmon: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, coarse kosher salt, granulated sugar, and olive oil to form a spice paste. Coat the salmon pieces evenly with this spice mixture.
- Bake the salmon: Place the salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) at the thickest part for medium-well doneness. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the filet and oven.
- Assemble the meal: Plate the baked salmon over cooked rice or grains. Serve alongside the prepared tomato salad. Spoon the creamy basil sauce generously over the salmon and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise in the basil sauce to reach your preferred sauce consistency.
- Oven temperatures may vary; check salmon doneness with a thermometer for best results.
- The salmon can be cooked to your preferred level of doneness; 135°F is recommended for medium-well.
- Precooked rice or grains are suggested for convenience but freshly cooked works as well.
- You can substitute spring greens with other leafy greens like arugula or kale based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American