Mediterranean Salmon and Rice

Mediterranean Salmon and Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. This recipe combines tender salmon with fragrant jasmine rice, fresh tomatoes, olives, and herbs. It’s not only delicious but also healthy.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it is quick to make and full of vibrant flavors. The combination of salmon and rice with Mediterranean ingredients makes it a healthy choice that everyone will love. Plus, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How to Make Mediterranean Salmon and Rice

Ingredients:

• Salmon fillets (4 pieces)
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Stir in the jasmine rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. After 10 minutes, add the cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan. Nestle the salmon fillets on top of the rice mixture.
5. Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with lemon zest, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Mediterranean Salmon and Rice

Serve this dish hot right from the pan. You can add extra lemon wedges on the side for those who want a little more zing. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

How to Store Mediterranean Salmon and Rice

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a little olive oil.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Salmon and Rice

• Make sure to watch the cooking time for the salmon. It should flake easily when it’s done.
• Feel free to adjust the vegetables according to what you have on hand. Spinach or bell peppers work well too.
• Always taste for seasoning before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Variation (If Any)

For a different flavor, you can use brown rice instead of jasmine rice; just adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Adding fresh spinach or herbs can also brighten up the dish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking for even cooking.

Can I use chicken instead of salmon?
Absolutely! You can replace salmon with chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed until the chicken is fully cooked.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use water instead of vegetable broth, but the flavor will be less rich. Using chicken broth is a good alternative as well.