When I think of weeknight dinners, Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach always comes to mind.
It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up.
After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen.
This dish is a quick solution for busy evenings, yet it impresses anyone lucky enough to share the table.
The rich, buttery flavor of the salmon paired with the vibrant spinach creates a delightful harmony.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach
This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach is a game-changer for your dinner routine.
It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients.
In about 25 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal that’s healthy and satisfying.
The buttery garlic sauce elevates the salmon, while the spinach adds a fresh touch.
It’s a dish that makes you feel good, inside and out!
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch.
Here’s what you’ll gather:
Salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is the star of the show, offering rich flavor and healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Unsalted butter: This adds a creamy richness to the dish, enhancing the garlic flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant, savory kick that elevates the entire meal.
Fresh spinach: A vibrant, nutrient-dense green that wilts beautifully, adding color and health benefits.
Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the butter and salmon.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the salmon, it adds a subtle flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal note.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding red pepper flakes for a kick.
If you’re not a fan of spinach, feel free to swap it out for kale or Swiss chard.
All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach
Cooking Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step.
Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
This simple step enhances the natural flavors.
Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
This is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet.
Cook them for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Don’t rush this step; that crispy skin is a game-changer!
You’ll know it’s ready to flip when it releases easily from the pan.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
Carefully flip the salmon fillets over.
Now, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the skillet.
As the butter melts, use a spoon to baste the salmon with the garlic-infused butter.
This adds incredible flavor and keeps the fish moist.
Cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting those flavors mingle.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
To ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked, check its internal temperature.
It should reach 145°F for safe eating.
If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the flesh to flake easily with a fork.
Trust me, you want it just right!
Step 5: Sauté the Spinach
In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach and a splash of lemon juice.
Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.
The lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the salmon.
This step is quick, so keep an eye on it!
Step 6: Serve
Now it’s time to plate up!
Serve the salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach.
Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the top.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color.
Your Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach is ready to impress!
Tips for Success
Always use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t rush the cooking process; let the skin get crispy for that perfect bite.
Feel free to adjust the garlic to your taste; more garlic means more flavor!
Keep an eye on the spinach; it wilts quickly, so don’t overcook it.
Experiment with herbs like dill or thyme for a unique twist.
Equipment Needed
Skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
Spatula: A fish spatula is ideal for flipping, but a regular spatula will suffice.
Meat thermometer: This ensures perfect doneness, though a fork can help check for flakiness.
Cutting board: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil with the butter for an aromatic twist.
Asian-Inspired: Swap the lemon juice for soy sauce and add sesame oil for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Medley: Toss in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini with the spinach for added color and nutrition.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the salmon over cauliflower rice instead of spinach for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with roasted asparagus or a light quinoa salad for a balanced meal.
Drinks: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the salmon beautifully.
Presentation: Serve on a warm plate, garnished with lemon wedges for a pop of color.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Frozen salmon can still be delicious, but it may require a few extra minutes in the skillet.
What can I substitute for spinach?
If spinach isn’t your thing, kale or Swiss chard work great too. Both add a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The best way is to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter and sauté the spinach in advance. Just reheat everything gently before serving.
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or even some fluffy quinoa. It’s all about balancing those rich flavors!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment.
The aroma of garlic and butter fills the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort.
Each bite of tender salmon paired with vibrant spinach is a reminder of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish brings joy to the table.
It’s a celebration of flavors that nourishes both body and soul.
So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure—you won’t regret it!
A delicious and healthy recipe for Garlic Butter Salmon served on a bed of sautéed spinach.
Ingredients
Scale
2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy.
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, basting the salmon with the melted garlic butter.
Once the salmon is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F), remove it from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach and lemon juice. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Serve the salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach, drizzling any remaining garlic butter from the skillet over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the salmon before cooking for a spicy kick.
You can substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different taste and texture.
