Introduction
Few dinners feel as indulgent yet balanced as this Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce.
The golden-seared salmon brings richness, while the creamy garlic-infused sauce delivers comfort in every bite. Add mushrooms for depth and spinach for freshness — and you have a perfectly balanced dish that looks straight out of a restaurant kitchen.
It’s fast enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for date night. All you need is one skillet, a few pantry staples, and 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
- One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup — everything cooks in a single skillet.
- Balanced Flavors: Cream, lemon, garlic, and herbs complement salmon’s richness without overpowering it.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and greens.
- Versatile: Works with cod, trout, or chicken for variety.
This dish is the perfect harmony of comfort food and clean eating.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Base
- ½ cup light cream
- ¼ cup white wine (or chicken broth as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp sear.
Season both sides with salt and freshly ground pepper.
2. Sear the Salmon
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and flaky.
The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and browned.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant — this builds the foundation of your sauce.
4. Wilt the Spinach
Add fresh spinach directly into the pan. Stir gently until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
The spinach adds color, texture, and a nutrient boost.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pan — these add rich flavor.
Stir in the light cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble and Serve
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce, mushrooms, and spinach over the top.
Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes to warm everything through.
Serve immediately — garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Chef’s Tips
- Crispy Skin: If using skin-on salmon, press the fillet lightly with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to prevent curling.
- Thicker Sauce: Add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan or reduce the cream slightly longer.
- Richer Flavor: Swap light cream for heavy cream or add a pat of butter at the end.
- No Wine? Use chicken broth with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for similar brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy garlic butter salmon with:
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a hearty base
- Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Garlic bread to soak up every bit of sauce
- A crisp green salad or roasted asparagus for balance
For a gourmet presentation, serve the salmon fillet atop the creamy spinach-mushroom mixture and drizzle extra sauce around the plate.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 32g
- Omega-3s: Excellent source
- Iron & Vitamin D: From spinach and salmon
This meal delivers lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and a full serving of vegetables — a wholesome option that feels indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
It’s elegant yet effortless, healthy yet indulgent.
The creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the flaky salmon, while the spinach and mushrooms add freshness and texture.
Whether served for family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees compliments — and empty plates.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach & Mushrooms in Creamy Sauce is more than a recipe — it’s a celebration of rich, simple flavors done right.
In just half an hour, you can bring together golden salmon fillets, a velvety sauce, and earthy vegetables for a dish that feels like fine dining at home.
So grab your skillet, pour that cream, and savor this irresistible seafood experience.
Bon appétit!