Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a combination of tender salmon fillets, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. The garlic butter sauce elevates the dish, infusing it with aromatic flavors. The creamy sauce is indulgent yet light enough to not overpower the delicate salmon. It’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze, and it’s quick enough to make on a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for a dinner party.

Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
Once the skillet is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until fully cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the salmon to absorb the flavors.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter to make the dish dairy-free.
Add Lemon: For a tangy twist, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon before serving or add lemon zest to the sauce.
Spinach Alternatives: Swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Add Veggies: For more color and flavor, add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet alongside the mushrooms and spinach.
Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon and sauce in a skillet over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out. You can also microwave the leftovers, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative.

3. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod or halibut. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish.

5. Is it necessary to use fresh spinach?

Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, but you can use frozen spinach as a substitute. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the salmon separately in advance. Reheat the sauce and combine it with the salmon when ready to serve.

7. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, allow it to simmer for longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water until you reach your desired consistency.

8. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus are also great options.

9. Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Yes, you can substitute the mushrooms with other varieties such as cremini, shiitake, or even portobello for a different flavor.

10. How can I make the garlic butter sauce spicier?

If you like your garlic butter sauce spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the garlic.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that you can enjoy any day of the week. The combination of tender salmon, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy sauce is irresistible. It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a comforting meal. Try it today, and you’ll have a new favorite recipe in your rotation!