Salmon with Basil Sauce and Tomato Salad Recipe
This flavorful dish features spice-rubbed baked salmon served over rice, complemented by a fresh tomato salad and a creamy basil sauce. The combination of aromatic spices on the salmon, vibrant basil sauce, and crisp tomato salad makes for a balanced, healthy, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
- Author: lucas
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Spice-Rubbed Salmon:
- 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 mayonnaise (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 cups 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
Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice or grains (precooked is fine)
- Prep the Tomato Salad: Halve the cherry tomatoes, cut the sweet corn off the cob, and mix with fresh spinach or spring greens. Add olive oil, minced chives or parsley, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Set aside for flavors to meld.
- Make the Basil Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil, chives, garlic, dried oregano (if using), mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and a small pinch of salt. Blend until almost smooth, leaving some flecks of herbs for texture. Adjust creaminess by adding more mayo if needed.
- Prep the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, granulated sugar, and olive oil to create a spice paste. Coat the salmon pieces evenly with the 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 thickest part reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-well doneness. Cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness.
- Assemble the Meal: Plate the cooked rice or grains first. Place the baked salmon atop the rice, then add a generous serving of the tomato salad on the side. Spoon the creamy basil sauce over the salmon and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use precooked rice or grains to save time when assembling the meal.
- Adjust the doneness of the salmon to your preference by altering baking time slightly.
- The basil sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Add lemon zest to the basil sauce for an extra citrusy punch.
- Feel free to substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce option.
- Fresh or frozen corn can be used if fresh ears aren’t available.
Keywords: salmon recipe, basil sauce, tomato salad, baked salmon, healthy dinner, easy salmon recipe, summer salad, grilled fish alternative