Garlic Lemon Salmon with Spinach & White Beans

Bright, flavorful, and nourishing, this Garlic Lemon Salmon with Spinach & White Beans brings together tender salmon, leafy greens and creamy white beans in one satisfying meal. The combination of iron-rich ingredients with fresh lemon makes this an easy, wholesome recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Prep the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Add the beans and spinach: Stir in the white beans and fresh spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the beans are warmed through.
5. Add the lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the spinach and beans and stir gently.
6. Bring it together: Return the salmon to the skillet. Spoon some of the lemony spinach and beans around the salmon and allow everything to warm together for another minute or two.
7. Serve: Finish with an extra squeeze of lemon and serve warm.

Iron Tip

Why this meal works: Salmon, spinach, and white beans provide a nourishing combination of iron and other important nutrients. The fresh lemon adds vitamin C, which helps your body absorb the plant-based iron found in the spinach and white beans more effectively.

Nutrition Highlights

• Salmon: Provides high-quality protein, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Spinach: Provides iron, folate, and vitamin C.
• White beans: A good plant-based source of iron, protein, and fiber.
• Lemon: Rich in vitamin C, which helps your body absorb non-heme iron from plant foods.

Serving Suggestion

Serve this salmon skillet on its own for a satisfying meal, or pair it with quinoa, brown rice, or roasted sweet potatoes. For an extra boost of vitamin C, add a side of fresh bell peppers, tomatoes, or a simple citrus salad.