Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach

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Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach is a rich, restaurant-style dish made at home in under 30 minutes. The salmon fillets are seared until golden and crispy, then simmered in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce with fresh spinach for a perfect balance of flavor. It’s comforting, nutritious, and elegant enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients For Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 5–6 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 small onion (finely chopped, optional)

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)

  • ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + thyme)

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional)

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)

  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

  2. Sear salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  3. Make garlic butter base: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant (1–2 minutes).

  4. Cream sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

  5. Add spinach: Toss in fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning and a squeeze of lemon juice. Adjust salt and pepper.

  6. Finish dish: Return salmon fillets to the pan. Spoon sauce over the fish and let it simmer gently for 2 minutes so flavors combine.

  7. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Servings

  • Serves 4 people

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

 Notes

  • Use skin-on salmon for more flavor and a crispier texture.

  • Don’t overcook salmon — it should flake easily but stay moist inside.

  • You can substitute kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.

  • For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

 Tips

  • Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a spicy kick.

  • Deglaze the pan with white wine instead of broth for extra richness.

  • Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or pasta for a complete meal.

  • To reheat, gently warm on low heat to prevent the cream sauce from splitting.

 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 480

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 34g

  • Carbohydrates: 7g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 2g

  • Sodium: 520mg

Health Benefits

  • Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health.

  • Spinach: High in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants.

  • Garlic: Supports immunity and heart health.

  • Balanced dish: Provides protein, healthy fats, and greens in one meal.

Q&A

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make it ahead?
The sauce can be made ahead, but cook salmon fresh for the best texture.

Q3: What sides go well with this?
Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, wild rice, or buttered pasta pair beautifully.

Q4: How do I thicken the sauce more?
Add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or let it simmer a few extra minutes.

Q5: Can I make it lighter?
Yes! Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.

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