Description
Mediterranean Salmon Skillet with Rice and Chickpeas
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1 cup cooked basmati rice (or yellow rice)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/3 cup Kalamata olives
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Season the salmon: Rub salmon fillets with 1 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Sear the salmon: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
Assemble the skillet: Add cooked rice to the skillet, mixing it with the tomatoes and chickpeas. Nestle the salmon back into the skillet.
Top and serve: Sprinkle olives, feta, and fresh thyme over the skillet. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof meal. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the salmon with 1 tbsp of olive oil, then evenly coat it with the spice mixture. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the salmon skin-side up (if skin-on) and sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. Gently flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Transfer to a plate. Immediately add the remaining oil, chickpeas, and tomatoes to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes begin to blister. Fold in the cooked rice to warm through. Create two spaces in the rice mixture and return the salmon fillets to the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki or lemon yogurt sauce for a creamy contrast. A side of warmed pita bread or a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly. For a brighter finish, garnish with extra fresh herbs like dill or parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating.
How-to Summary
This one-pan dinner is built in layers: season and sear salmon until cooked, then sauté tomatoes and chickpeas in the same skillet. Mix in pre-cooked rice, return the salmon to the pan, and finish with olives, feta, and herbs. The entire process takes about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, firm white fish like cod or halibut work well. Adjust cooking time as needed, as thinner fillets may cook faster.
What can I substitute for feta cheese? Goat cheese or dairy-free alternatives like vegan feta are excellent substitutes. For a non-dairy version, omit it entirely and add a handful of capers for briny flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, provided all your packaged ingredients (like canned chickpeas) are certified gluten-free. The recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep components ahead. Cook the rice and season the salmon up to a day in advance. For best results, assemble and cook the skillet fresh.
My rice is clumping. How can I prevent this? Use day-old rice or spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before adding it to the skillet. This prevents a mushy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Sear the salmon in batches if your skillet is small to ensure a golden crust, not steam.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon continues to cook after removal from heat. Remove it when it’s just opaque and flakes easily.
- Using Uncooked Rice: The rice must be pre-cooked. Adding raw rice will require significant extra liquid and cooking time, altering the recipe.
- Not Draining Chickpeas: Ensure chickpeas are thoroughly drained and rinsed to avoid a starchy, muddy flavor in the dish.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Salmon Skillet is the perfect fusion of convenience, nutrition, and vibrant flavor. It demonstrates how a few quality ingredients, cooked in a single pan, can create a restaurant-worthy meal at home in under 30 minutes. The combination of savory salmon, hearty chickpeas, tangy feta, and briny olives delivers a satisfying and balanced dinner that is sure to become a regular in your weekly rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and delicious results!