Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils is a nourishing, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender, flaky salmon and earthy lentils in a hearty, protein-rich meal. This dish is simple to prepare and makes a perfect choice for a healthy, satisfying lunch or dinner. With minimal ingredients, it’s easy to whip up, yet it delivers a restaurant-quality meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Rich in Protein and Omega-3s: Salmon and lentils are packed with protein and healthy fats, making this dish nutritious.
- Easy to Prepare: With a few steps and accessible ingredients, this meal is perfect for busy nights.
- Flavorful and Filling: The combination of spices, herbs, and savory lentils makes this dish satisfying and delicious.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish can be stored and reheated, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Balanced and Nutritious: High in protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a complete meal in one dish.
Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
What is Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils?
Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils is a wholesome recipe featuring pan-seared salmon fillets served over a bed of seasoned, cooked lentils. This combination provides a nutritious, balanced meal that’s simple, delicious, and quick to prepare.
Ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
- 4 salmon fillets, skin on
- 200g green or brown lentils (canned or dried, if using dried, cook beforehand)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
If using dried lentils, rinse them and cook in a pot of boiling water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside. If using canned lentils, drain and rinse them thoroughly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add Lentils and Stock
Add the cooked (or canned) lentils to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, season with salt and pepper, and add the balsamic vinegar if using. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Pan-Sear the Salmon
In a separate skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until cooked to your preferred doneness.
Step 5: Serve
Spoon the lentil mixture onto plates and place a salmon fillet on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of brightness.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
- Steamed Asparagus: A simple side that pairs well with the flavors in this dish.
- Roasted Potatoes: Adds a bit of extra heartiness to the meal.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon and lentils.
- Crusty Bread: Great for soaking up the flavorful lentil sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes add a colorful, nutrient-packed side.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
- Crisp the Salmon Skin: Cooking the salmon skin side down first helps achieve a crispy, flavorful skin.
- Season Lentils Generously: Lentils absorb flavors well, so season them generously with herbs and spices.
- Cook Lentils Until Tender: Properly cooked lentils should be tender but not mushy.
- Add Vinegar for Depth: A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a subtle tang that enhances the dish.
- Serve Fresh with Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and complements the salmon.
Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
- Use Different Herbs: Swap parsley for dill, thyme, or chives for a different herb profile.
- Add Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh greens with the lentils for extra nutrients and color.
- Try Red Lentils: For a creamier texture, use red lentils, though they cook faster than green or brown lentils.
- Use Smoked Salmon: For a smoky flavor, top the lentils with flaked smoked salmon instead.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a hint of heat.
How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store the salmon and lentils separately to maintain texture.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils
- On the Stovetop: Reheat lentils in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Warm the salmon in the skillet briefly to avoid overcooking.
- In the Microwave: Microwave lentils in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes. Reheat salmon in short intervals, checking to avoid drying out.
- Serve Fresh with Lemon: Adding fresh lemon or herbs after reheating brightens up the flavors.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils in Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils recipe?
Yes, you can use canned lentils for convenience. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to the dish to reduce sodium and achieve the best flavor.
How can I prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, make sure the pan is hot before adding the salmon. Pat the salmon dry, add a little oil, and start cooking with the skin side down. This helps achieve a crispy skin and prevents sticking.
What can I substitute for salmon in this recipe?
If you prefer a different protein, trout or cod work well as alternatives. For a plant-based option, roasted mushrooms or marinated tofu make good substitutes.
Can I make Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lentils ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Pan-sear the salmon fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils is a wholesome, balanced dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. The richness of the salmon complements the hearty, earthy flavor of lentils, creating a meal that’s nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for any day of the week. Serve with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor and enjoy this delicious, protein-packed recipe.
More Jamie Oliver Recipes
PrintJamie Oliver Salmon And Lentils
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing and Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Salmon and Lentils is a wholesome recipe featuring pan-seared salmon fillets served over a bed of seasoned, cooked lentils. This combination of salmon and lentils provides a nutritious, balanced meal that’s simple, delicious, and quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets, skin on
- 200g green or brown lentils (canned or dried, if using dried, cook beforehand)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
If using dried lentils, rinse them and cook in a pot of boiling water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside. If using canned lentils, drain and rinse them thoroughly.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the cooked (or canned) lentils to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, season with salt and pepper, and add the balsamic vinegar if using. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
In a separate skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until cooked to your preferred doneness.
Spoon the lentil mixture onto plates and place a salmon fillet on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of brightness.