Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The salmon fillets are seared to a crispy golden-brown perfection, providing a delightful contrast to the smooth and creamy spinach sauce. With just the right amount of garlic, shallots, and parmesan, the creamy sauce complements the rich salmon beautifully. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making clean-up a breeze. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon filets, skin on or off (your preference)

• Kosher salt and black pepper

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons salted butter

• 1 small shallot, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced or grated

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk, or heavy cream

• 2 ounces cream cheese, cubed

• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 4 cups fresh baby spinach

• Juice from 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, plus more for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Cook the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the salmon, skin side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside. If you prefer, peel off the skin and discard it.

3. Make the Creamy Spinach Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter, shallots, and garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Add the crushed red pepper flakes, coconut milk (or heavy cream), and cream cheese. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.

4. Add the Finishing Touches: Stir in the parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the sauce has thickened. Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and chives. Remove from heat.

5. Assemble and Serve: Return the cooked salmon to the skillet, nestling it in the creamy sauce. Plate each piece of salmon and spoon the sauce generously over the top. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of the cream cheese and parmesan for a dairy-free version.

• Spinach Alternatives: Try using other leafy greens like kale or arugula in place of spinach for a different flavor.

• Add Veggies: You can also add mushrooms, artichokes, or roasted red peppers to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.

• Spice it Up: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes for more heat or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or half-and-half if you prefer a less coconut-flavored sauce.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat and add the salmon when ready to serve.

4. How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork when cooked properly. For medium doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C).

5. Can I use a non-stick skillet?

Yes, a non-stick skillet works great for this recipe, especially for cooking the salmon and ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.

6. How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Try adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor boost in the sauce.

7. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.

8. How can I serve this dish?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

9. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, you can add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the spice level.

10. How do I store leftover sauce?

You can store the sauce separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Creamed Spinach Salmon is an elegant and flavorful dish that combines rich, creamy textures with the bright freshness of spinach and herbs. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels like a gourmet experience. Enjoy!