30-Minute Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach
This creamy garlic butter salmon with spinach is a luxurious yet easy one-pan dinner ready in just 30 minutes. Golden pan-seared salmon fillets are nestled in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with fresh spinach and cream. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with flavor—perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets skin-on or skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 3–4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for extra creaminess
Instructions
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese if using.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, stirring gently.
- Return salmon to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or red pepper flakes for variation.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and plant-based butter.
- Swap spinach for kale or arugula based on availability.
- Best reheated gently on the stove to preserve texture and sauce consistency.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.