Name: Garlic Butter Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless); 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini); 5 ounces fresh spinach; 1/2 cup light cream (or heavy cream for richer flavor); Low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Salt and black pepper to taste

If you’re craving a delicious, quick, and healthy dinner that feels like a gourmet experience, look no further than this Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe. This creamy yet light dish boasts rich flavors and a simple preparation that makes it suitable for any occasion—be it a weeknight family meal or a romantic dinner for two. The star of the show, salmon, is not only packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids but also offers a satisfying, tender bite that’s hard to resist.

What sets this Garlic Butter Salmon apart is its creamy sauce, infused with garlic, spinach, and mushrooms, which provides a luscious backdrop to the salmon. The addition of lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing its richness perfectly. Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto diet, this recipe will seamlessly fit into your meal plan without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

This one-pan meal is quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes—making it ideal for those busy evenings when time is of the essence. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze! Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides or on its own for a wholesome, nutritionally balanced dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Salmon

Quick and Easy: Prepare this meal in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fresh spinach, and antioxidant-rich mushrooms.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, lemon, and creamy sauce elevates the salmon beautifully.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with all cooking happening in one skillet.
Diet-Friendly: Aligns with various dietary preferences including low-carb, gluten-free, and keto.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on making this delicious Garlic Butter Salmon, make sure your kitchen is ready. Gather all your ingredients first, as this will make the cooking process smoother and faster. You’ll need a large non-stick skillet or a cast iron skillet for cooking the salmon and creating the creamy sauce. A spatula or fish turner is essential for flipping the salmon without breaking it apart. Additionally, having a sharp knife and cutting board at your disposal for slicing the mushrooms and mincing the garlic is crucial. Ensure you have measuring cups and spoons to get accurate measurements, particularly for the cream and stock.

Ingredients

2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
5 ounces fresh spinach
1/2 cup light cream (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
Low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Salmon

To ensure that your salmon fillets sear beautifully, start by patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a crispy exterior when cooking. Next, generously season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the salmon in the pan, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Sear the salmon for about 3–4 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden brown crust and is cooked through. Once perfectly seared, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 5–7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and tender. This process adds a deep flavor to the dish. After the mushrooms are ready, add the minced garlic, stirring for an additional minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should just become aromatic.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Now, it’s time to introduce the fresh spinach. Add it to the skillet, stirring gently. The spinach will only require about 2–3 minutes to wilt down, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the garlic and mushrooms. Keep the heat on low during this process to ensure you don’t overcook the spinach.

Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce

To create a delicious creamy sauce, pour in either white wine or chicken broth along with the lemon juice to deglaze the pan. Scrape any bits stuck to the skillet, as they add an extra layer of flavor. After deglazing, mix in the cream and bring it to a simmer. This will take about 2–3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Just before serving, stir in the chopped parsley and season the sauce with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Return the Salmon

Finally, it’s time to return the seared salmon to the skillet. Gently place the fillets back in the pan, spooning the rich sauce with mushrooms and spinach over the top. Let it cook for another minute or two, warming everything through. The Salmon is now ready to serve!

Variations

Protein: Swap out the salmon for other types of fish like trout or halibut for a change of pace.
Vegetables: You could add other vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, which would also pair well in the creamy sauce.
Spices: For a spicy twist, incorporate red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

Cooking Notes

Be cautious with the heat when searing the salmon; too high can lead to burning.
Fresh ingredients are key for the best flavor, particularly the parsley and spinach.
This dish can be made dairy-free by substituting coconut cream for the heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Garlic Butter Salmon over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to enhance the meal.

Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the salmon with lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking for the juiciest experience.
If making this in advance, the sauce can be stored separately and heated just before serving to preserve its creaminess.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

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

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 34g
Sodium: 680mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before starting to cook to achieve the best texture.

What can I substitute for cream in this recipe?

If you prefer a non-dairy option, consider using coconut cream or a cashew cream for a similar creamy consistency.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be reheated in a skillet on low, adding a bit of broth to maintain moisture. Be sure not to overheat, as it can dry out the salmon.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary experience that you can whip up in record time. Perfectly balanced in flavor and nutrition, it provides a satisfying dining option that pleases the palate while adhering to various dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones, it invites wholesome enjoyment. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below after trying this recipe, and let us know how it worked for you! Happy Cooking!