Description
This Creamy Spinach Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets smothered in a rich and velvety cream sauce with fresh spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon. It’s an easy yet elegant one-skillet meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Seasoning
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 oz fresh spinach (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the fillets begin to cook through.
- Flip and cook: Turn the fillets over and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and thyme. Cook the sauce for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Combine salmon and sauce: Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon the creamy spinach sauce over them. Heat through for 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately for a warm and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream.
- Use fresh thyme if available for a more vibrant flavor.
- Ensure salmon is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
- Pair with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days; reheat gently on stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Spinach Salmon, salmon recipe, creamy sauce, easy dinner, healthy fish recipe, sautéed spinach, Parmesan cream sauce
