Description
This Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets served in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach. The meal is enhanced with Parmesan cheese and a hint of Italian seasoning, creating a comforting yet elegant dinner option ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooking Fats & Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Vegetables & Herbs
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Dairy & Seasonings
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Season salmon fillets evenly on both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin is on) and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside to rest.
- Sauté the Garlic: Reduce the heat slightly and add unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and tender.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Wilt the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the pan and stir until wilted, which should take about 1–2 minutes.
- Return Salmon to Sauce: Return the cooked salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let everything simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld. If desired, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top to brighten the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if using. Serve warm alongside rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using salmon with skin on helps keep the fillets moist during cooking.
- Make sure not to overcook the salmon to maintain tenderness and moisture.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt (added off the heat to prevent curdling).
- The creamy sauce can be thickened more by simmering longer, or thinned by adding a splash of milk or broth.
- Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, acidic contrast but can be omitted if preferred.
- Serve with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
