Picture this: it’s a weeknight after a long day, and I’m yearning for something comforting yet exciting. The moment I took a pan and seared that flaky salmon, my kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic and spices, whisking me away to sunny Mediterranean shores. That’s when it hit me—why not combine this tender fish with a spicy arrabbiata sauce?
This One-Skillet Salmon all’Arrabbiata with Spinach is a delightful exploration of flavors that’s ready in just 25 minutes! Imagine perfectly cooked salmon resting in a bold, zesty tomato sauce, each bite enhanced by the warmth of crushed red pepper flakes and the freshness of wilted spinach. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, making clean-up a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish is here to brighten up your table. Let’s dive in and create something delicious!
Why is Salmon all’Arrabbiata so irresistible?
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
One-Skillet Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in a single skillet, leading to quick clean-up and more time to enjoy your meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy arrabbiata sauce and fresh spinach elevates simple salmon to a bold culinary delight that excites the palate.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious, ideal for health-conscious food lovers.
Versatility: Feel free to swap ingredients easily—try chicken or tofu, or use whatever greens you have on hand. Discover more ideas for personalization to make it your own!
Salmon all’Arrabbiata Ingredients
• Dive into this vibrant, quick meal perfect for weeknights!
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For the Sauce
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Olive Oil – Provides fat for searing; substitute with any neutral cooking oil.
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Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; for dairy-free, use more olive oil.
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Garlic Cloves – Adds aromatic flavor; substitute with jarred minced garlic for convenience.
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Yellow Onion – Enhances depth of flavor; can be swapped for red or shallots.
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Dried Oregano – Provides herbal notes; Italian seasoning is a great alternative.
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Dried Sage – Adds earthiness; thyme works well as a substitute.
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Sweet Paprika – Contributes sweetness and color; smoked paprika adds extra depth.
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Fresh Chili or Red Chili Flakes – For spice; adjust the amount based on heat preference.
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Anchovy Fillet – Melts into the sauce for umami richness; miso can be used for a vegetarian option.
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Tomato Paste – Thickens and intensifies the sauce; replace with tomato sauce in a pinch.
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Chicken Broth – Adds moisture; vegetable broth can be used for a non-meat option.
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Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce; fresh tomatoes can be used if prepared properly.
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For the Salmon
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Salmon Fillets – The main protein source; skinless is preferred for easier eating.
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Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste, especially if using salted ingredients.
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Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; freshly ground pepper offers the best flavor.
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For the Garnish
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Spinach – Adds nutrition and color; kale can be used as a heartier substitute.
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Grated Parmesan – Finishing touch for creaminess and umami; nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
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Chopped Parsley – For freshness and garnish; basil can also provide a fresh flavor twist.
Get ready to savor a Salmon all’Arrabbiata meal like no other!
How to Make Salmon all’Arrabbiata
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Prep: Start by chopping the yellow onion and garlic cloves finely. Season your skinless salmon fillets with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
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Sear Salmon: In your trusty skillet, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets in, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Cook Aromatics: Lower the heat a bit, and add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Make Sauce: Stir in the anchovy fillet (or miso for a vegetarian twist), fresh chili or red chili flakes, oregano, sage, sweet paprika, and tomato paste. Cook this mixture for a minute, then deglaze the pan by pouring in the chicken broth. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to combine those fantastic flavors.
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Combine Sauce Ingredients: Mix in the crushed tomatoes next; allow this to simmer for around 5 minutes. You want a rich, thick sauce that clings to the salmon with love!
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Add Spinach: Fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt for about 2 minutes. Be sure to stir in the grated Parmesan here for that creamy finish!
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Finish Cooking Salmon: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, ensuring they’re cooked through and heated perfectly. If your sauce is too thick, thin it out with a splash more of chicken broth.
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Serve: Plate your salmon and drizzle with the robust sauce. Finish off with an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes, some freshly cracked black pepper, and a garnish of chopped parsley for that pop of color.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread or pasta to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Salmon all’Arrabbiata components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onion and garlic and season the salmon fillets up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The arrabbiata sauce can also be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just skip adding spinach until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to cook, reheat the sauce on the stove, fold in the spinach until wilted, and finish by adding the seared salmon back into the pan. This approach allows you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort and just as vibrant flavors!
Salmon all’Arrabbiata Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe and customize it to your taste!
- Protein Swap: Substitute salmon with chicken or firm tofu for a different protein experience that still packs a punch.
- Leafy Greens: Use Swiss chard or kale in place of spinach to explore different textures and flavors while boosting nutrition.
- Pasta Option: Toss in cooked pasta into the skillet for a heartier one-pot meal that’s sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
- Heat Level: Adjust the amount of fresh chili or red pepper flakes to tailor the spice to your preference; more heat for brave souls, less for milder tastes.
- Sauce Twist: Incorporate olives or capers for an added briny depth in the sauce that elevates those Mediterranean vibes.
- Herb Variation: Explore using fresh basil or dill instead of parsley for a refreshing herbal twist that brightens the dish.
- Cheesy Delight: Try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch that adds an unexpected texture to your salmon dish.
Embrace these variations, and let your culinary creativity shine through!
What to Serve with Salmon all’Arrabbiata?
Picture a vibrant dinner table, with each side dish enhancing the warmth of your spicy salmon masterpiece.
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Creamy Polenta: The smooth, creamy texture of polenta perfectly balances the spiciness of the arrabbiata sauce, creating a comfort-filled experience.
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Garlic Herb Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, this bread is perfect for mopping up every drop of that rich sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the warm, savory salmon, bringing brightness to your plate.
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Steamed Asparagus: The delicate crunch of asparagus provides a lovely texture and a splash of color, complementing the flavors of the dish beautifully.
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Quinoa: Nutty and chewy, quinoa serves as a nutritious base that soaks up the delightful arrabbiata sauce while adding extra protein to your meal.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the overall experience, elevating the meal with its crisp acidity and fruity notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a light dessert, lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish, cleansing the palate after the bold spice of the main dish.
Expert Tips for Salmon all’Arrabbiata
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Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon. This helps achieve a nice, crispy exterior while locking in moisture.
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Salt Sparingly: Be cautious with salt; remember that ingredients like anchovy and broth can also add sodium. Taste before adding more salt.
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Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili or red pepper flakes based on personal preference. Always start with less and add more to suit your taste for the salmon all’Arrabbiata.
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Creamy Finish: For a richer flavor, stir in a bit more grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast just before serving. This adds a delightful creaminess to the sauce.
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Timely Spinach Addition: Add the spinach near the end of cooking to prevent overcooking it. You want it vibrant and fresh, brightening up your salmon dish!
How to Store and Freeze Salmon all’Arrabbiata
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the salmon’s texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, do so on low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out. Enjoy your delicious salmon all’Arrabbiata warm!
Salmon all’Arrabbiata Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Skinless salmon fillets work best for this dish as they cook evenly and are easier to eat. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor, but farmed salmon is also a fantastic option. Always choose fillets that are bright in color and smell fresh, avoiding any that have a fishy odor or dark spots.
How should I store leftover Salmon all’Arrabbiata?
I recommend storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out. This way, you can enjoy that delightful flavor again without losing any quality!
Can I freeze Salmon all’Arrabbiata?
Certainly! For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the dish in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on low heat while adding a dash of chicken broth to ensure the sauce stays luscious and moist.
What if I can’t find fresh chili or prefer a milder dish?
Very! If fresh chili isn’t available, you can use red chili flakes or even omit it altogether for a milder flavor. Start with a smaller amount of chili flakes and adjust to your heat preference, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy the meal without overwhelming spice.
Is this recipe suitable for those with fish allergies?
No problem! If you or your guests have fish allergies, you can easily customize this dish by substituting the salmon with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just follow the same cooking instructions and adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper cooking.
How do I keep the spinach vibrant and fresh-looking in the dish?
To keep your spinach vibrant, add it to the sauce during the last two minutes of cooking. This method ensures it wilts just enough while maintaining that gorgeous green color. Always aim for a quick stir to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dull appearance.
Savor Quick Salmon all’Arrabbiata in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by chopping the yellow onion and garlic cloves finely. Season your skinless salmon fillets with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- In your trusty skillet, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets in, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Lower the heat a bit, and add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
- Stir in the anchovy fillet (or miso for a vegetarian twist), fresh chili or red chili flakes, oregano, sage, sweet paprika, and tomato paste. Cook this mixture for a minute, then deglaze the pan by pouring in the chicken broth. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to combine those fantastic flavors.
- Mix in the crushed tomatoes next; allow this to simmer for around 5 minutes. You want a rich, thick sauce that clings to the salmon with love!
- Fold in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt for about 2 minutes. Be sure to stir in the grated Parmesan here for that creamy finish!
- Return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, ensuring they’re cooked through and heated perfectly. If your sauce is too thick, thin it out with a splash more of chicken broth.
- Plate your salmon and drizzle with the robust sauce. Finish off with an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes, some freshly cracked black pepper, and a garnish of chopped parsley for that pop of color.