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Garlic Butter Salmon & Spinach

Garlic Butter Salmon & Spinach is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together rich, flaky salmon fillets pan-seared to perfection and nestled in a bed of garlicky, buttery sautéed spinach. The combination of the golden, crisp exterior of the salmon and the silky, savory garlic butter sauce creates a comforting and indulgent meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The vibrant spinach adds freshness and balance, soaking up the flavorful sauce for a truly satisfying bite. Whether you're cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy healthy seafood with bold, comforting flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American / Mediterranean-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or nonstick pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Small mixing bowl (for optional seasoning mix or lemon butter)
  • Paper towels (to pat salmon dry)
  • Plate (for resting cooked salmon)

Ingredients
  

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Spinach:

  • 1 tablespoon butter (or olive oil)
  • 1 small shallot or ½ onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 3–4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions
 

  • 1.Season the Salmon:
    Pat salmon fillets dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • 2.Sear the Salmon:
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.Place salmon skin-side down (if applicable). Sear for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–4 minutes.Remove and set aside.
  • 3.Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
    In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.Add lemon juice and zest. Stir.
  • 4.Sauté the Spinach:
    Add shallots to the pan, cook 2–3 minutes until soft.Add spinach and cook just until wilted (1–2 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • 5.Combine & Serve:
    Return salmon to skillet, spoon sauce over the top.Let everything heat through for 1–2 minutes.Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Fresh vs. Frozen Salmon:
    Fresh salmon is best, but if using frozen, thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture and uneven browning.
  • Don’t Overcook the Salmon:
    Salmon cooks quickly. Overcooking makes it dry. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and is still slightly pink in the center.
  • Butter Quality Matters:
    Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor. It’s the foundation of your sauce.
  • Spinach Substitutes:
    Don’t have spinach? Baby kale or Swiss chard work well too—just sauté slightly longer.
  • Add Cream (Optional):
    Want it richer? Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream into the butter sauce before adding the spinach for a creamier dish.
  • Lemon Brightness:
    Don’t skip the lemon juice—it cuts through the richness and adds fresh balance.
  • Make it a Meal:
    Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a simple pasta for a heartier dish.
Keyword Creamy garlic butter sauce, Easy salmon recipe, Garlic butter salmon, Healthy salmon dinner, Keto salmon with spinach, Low carb salmon recipe, One-pan salmon, Salmon and spinach, Weeknight seafood dinner