Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon
Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon is a delightful dish that combines vibrant vegetables with succulent salmon, creating a meal that is not just nutritious but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast, showcasing the beauty of simple ingredients brought together in harmony. The tender green beans and sweet pearl onions complement the rich, flaky salmon, making every bite a joy. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious dish that is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Why Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon is Worth Your Time
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. The combination of green beans and pearl onions provides a wonderful texture and sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory salmon. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. The use of fresh and frozen ingredients allows for year-round enjoyment, meaning you can savor this dish whenever you crave it.
Ingredient Notes
- 1 pound green beans, frozen – Perfectly tender and vibrant, these are a great source of vitamins and minerals.
- 1 cup pearl onions, frozen – Their sweet flavor and small size add a delightful pop to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – A healthy fat that enhances the flavors and helps in cooking.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup sodium-free chicken stock – Provides moisture and enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 6 ounces salmon fillets, skinless – The star of the dish, offering a source of healthy protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Equipment at a Glance
- Large skillet – Ideal for sautéing the vegetables and cooking the salmon.
- Cooking spoon – For stirring and ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To measure ingredients accurately.
- Sharp knife – For chopping and portioning the salmon.
- Cutting board – A sturdy surface for preparing your ingredients.
Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using frozen green beans and pearl onions, there’s no need to thaw them; they can go straight into the skillet. Make sure your salmon fillets are thawed if they were previously frozen.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the frozen pearl onions. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Add the Green Beans
Next, add the frozen green beans to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and bright.
Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken Stock
Pour in the cup of sodium-free chicken stock, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. This will create a flavorful base for your salmon.
Step 5: Add the Salmon Fillets
Carefully place the skinless salmon fillets into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the salmon cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Once the salmon is cooked through, remove the lid and drizzle the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of unsalted butter over the salmon and vegetables. Gently stir everything together to coat in the buttery sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon to plates or a serving dish. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, while the salmon is flaky and the vegetables are fresh.
Season-by-Season Upgrades
- Spring: Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of flavor.
- Summer: Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted squash or pumpkin for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten up the dish.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. Keep an eye on it and check for flakiness.
- Using frozen vegetables is convenient, but ensure they are cooked long enough to be tender but not mushy.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end after adding the butter, as it can enhance the overall flavor.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 2 months. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the salmon from drying out.
FAQ
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh green beans can be used in place of frozen. Just trim the ends and blanch them for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet.
What can I substitute for the salmon?
If salmon isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with other fish like trout or tilapia, or even chicken breast for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and salmon separately ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve.
What should I serve with Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad to complete your meal.
One Pan, More Ideas
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – A quick and flavorful seafood option.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry – Customize with your favorite seasonal veggies.
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta – A comforting, creamy dish for pasta lovers.
- One-Pan Ratatouille – A colorful and healthy vegetarian option.
Final Thoughts
Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon is a dish that beautifully combines simplicity with elegance. The way the flavors of the green beans, pearl onions, and salmon come together is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with its quick preparation time, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So go ahead, try this recipe, and savor each bite of this delightful dish!
Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using frozen green beans and pearl onions, there’s no need to thaw them; they can go straight into the skillet. Make sure your salmon fillets are thawed if they were previously frozen.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the frozen pearl onions. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
- Next, add the frozen green beans to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and bright.
- Pour in the cup of sodium-free chicken stock, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. This will create a flavorful base for your salmon.
- Carefully place the skinless salmon fillets into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the salmon cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Once the salmon is cooked through, remove the lid and drizzle the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of unsalted butter over the salmon and vegetables. Gently stir everything together to coat in the buttery sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the Green Beans with Pearl Onions and Salmon to plates or a serving dish. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, while the salmon is flaky and the vegetables are fresh.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months; reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
- Fresh green beans can be used instead of frozen; just blanch them first.
