Grilled Salmon with Spinach and Cheese

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

For the Salmon

• 2–4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½–1 tsp salt

• Optional: ½ tsp dried herbs (thyme, oregano, dill)

For the Spinach & Cheese Topping

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed & drained)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup cream cheese (softened)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella (or cheddar)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: A pinch of nutmeg (pairs well with spinach)

Optional Garnish

• Lemon wedges

• Chopped parsley

• Chili flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry.

2. In a small bowl, mix:

   • Olive oil

   • Lemon juice

   • Garlic

   • Paprika

   • Salt & pepper

3. Rub the mixture evenly over the salmon.

4. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes while preparing the topping.

2. Make the Spinach & Cheese Mixture

1. Heat butter/olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

3. Add spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).

   • If using frozen spinach, sauté until moisture evaporates.

4. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.

5. Mix in Parmesan and mozzarella.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

7. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Grill the Salmon

Outdoor Grill Method

1. Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F / 200°C).

2. Lightly oil the grates.

3. Place salmon skin-side down (if skin-on).

4. Grill 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Stovetop Grill Pan Method

1. Heat grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Grill salmon for 4–5 minutes per side.

Cooking Tip:

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 125–130°F (52–54°C) for moist, flaky salmon.

4. Add the Spinach & Cheese Topping

1. Spoon the spinach-cheese mixture over each grilled salmon fillet.

2. Optional: Place under a broiler for 1–2 minutes to melt and brown the cheese slightly.

5. Serve

Serve hot with:

• Rice or mashed potatoes

• Roasted vegetables

• Garlic bread

• A fresh salad

Squeeze fresh lemon on top before eating.

Quick Variations

• Keto-Friendly: Serve with cauliflower mash.

• Spicy: Add chili flakes to the marinade or topping.

• Creamier: Add 2 tbsp heavy cream to the spinach mixture.