Baked Salmon with Creamy Spinach Sauce

Description of this recipe

This recipe brings together the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture of baked salmon with a lusciously creamy spinach sauce. It’s a dish that’s both elegant enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a weeknight meal. The combination of the rich, savory salmon and the vibrant, garlicky spinach sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This baked salmon with creamy spinach sauce is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The flavors dance on your palate, the textures delight your senses, and the aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why you will love this recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe for several compelling reasons:

Effortless Elegance: It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, yet delivers a dish that feels sophisticated and restaurant-worthy.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy spinach sauce perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and exciting.
Nutrient-Packed: Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals. This dish is as good for you as it is delicious!
Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides – rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad – for a complete and satisfying meal.
Quick & Easy: From prep to plate, this recipe can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Both salmon lovers and those who are new to seafood will find this dish irresistible.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or herbs to the sauce.
Healthy Indulgence: You can enjoy this decadent dish without feeling guilty, as it’s made with wholesome ingredients and healthy cooking methods.

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

2-3 salmon fillets (about 150-200g / 5-7 oz each), skin on or off, your preference 🐟
1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
Salt and freshly ground black pepper 🧂 to taste
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth) 🌶️
1 lemon 🍋, sliced into thin rounds for garnish and flavor infusion

For the Creamy Spinach Sauce:

2 cups fresh spinach 🌿, thoroughly washed and roughly chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter 🧈
2 cloves garlic 🧄, finely minced
½ cup heavy cream 🥛 (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀, plus more for garnish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper 🧂 to taste
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, adds warmth) 🌰
1 tablespoon dry white wine (optional, adds complexity)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and beautifully.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the salmon from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil.
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each fillet. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to help it crisp up in the oven.
Drizzle each fillet with olive oil. This adds moisture and flavor, helping the salmon to become tender and flaky.
Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it will enhance the flavor of the salmon.

Step 2: Bake the Salmon

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of the salmon fillets.
To check if the salmon is done, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. The salmon should flake easily and be opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this will make the salmon dry.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach

While the salmon is baking, prepare the creamy spinach sauce. Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. The butter should be melted but not browned.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. Stir frequently to ensure the spinach cooks evenly.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. This will prevent the cream from scorching.
If using, deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce for a minute.
Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and stir well to combine.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the salmon is cooked through, remove it from the oven.
Place the baked salmon fillets on individual plates.
Spoon the creamy spinach sauce generously over each fillet.
Garnish with lemon slices and additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

COOKING Rating:

Easy to Medium

Serving Suggestions:

This Baked Salmon with Creamy Spinach Sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Roasted Potatoes: Adds a hearty and comforting element to the meal.
Quinoa: A healthy and nutritious option that complements the flavors of the salmon and spinach.
Asparagus: A simple and elegant side dish that provides a fresh and vibrant contrast.
Green Beans: Another great green vegetable that pairs well with salmon.
Side Salad: A refreshing and light option to balance the richness of the dish.

Tips:

Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Feel free to add more or less cream, cheese, or spices to the sauce to suit your taste.
Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach has the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
Make it Ahead: The creamy spinach sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Get Creative with Garnishes: Experiment with different garnishes, such as fresh herbs, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Add a touch of lemon zest to the spinach sauce for brightness
If you don’t have Parmesan Pecorino Romano is a suitable substitution

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Calories:

Approximately 450-550 per serving

Protein:

Approximately 35-45 grams per serving

Sodium:

Approximately 300-400mg per serving

Conclusion

This Baked Salmon with Creamy Spinach Sauce is a dish that truly has it all – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and good for you too! The combination of the tender, flaky salmon and the creamy, garlicky spinach sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or an elegant dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a culinary masterpiece!

5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

A: While fresh spinach is ideal, you can use frozen spinach in a pinch. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet. This will prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.

Q2: I don’t have heavy cream. Can I use something else?

A: Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even milk for the heavy cream. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy. You can also try using Greek yogurt for a tangier and healthier option.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to the spinach sauce?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or any other vegetables that you enjoy. Simply sauté them along with the garlic and spinach.

Q4: How long does the salmon stay fresh for if refrigerated?

A: Cooked salmon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days for optimal quality and safety.

Q5: What can I do to make this dish even lower in sodium?

A: To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium or no-salt-added broth or stock in the sauce, and be mindful of the amount of salt you add during seasoning. You can also use salt substitutes or rely more on herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains added salt.