Savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Garlic Butter Salmon Spinach Mushrooms! This exquisite recipe combines the richness of salmon with the earthiness of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach, all brought together in a creamy garlic butter sauce that is simply divine. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special date night at home, this dish is a celebration of comforting flavors and effortless elegance.

As the aroma of garlic and butter fills your kitchen, you’ll be transported to a place of culinary delight and warmth. The hint of Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick to the velvety cream sauce, elevating each bite of tender salmon to a new level of indulgence. Paired with your favorite side dish or a simple green salad, this Garlic Butter Salmon Spinach Mushrooms recipe is sure to become a staple on your dining table, just as it has for many others who have savored its charms.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is a delightful way to create lasting memories around the dinner table. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and let the magic of Garlic Butter Salmon Spinach Mushrooms unfold in your kitchen. Get ready to savor each bite and experience the joy of a homemade meal that is both comforting and utterly delicious.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy weeknight meal that feels special
• Creamy and flavorful one-pan dish with minimal cleanup
• Versatile – can be adapted with different greens, proteins, and dairy substitutes
• Comforting and rich dish with a fresh feel

Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner but special enough for a date night at home.
• One-Pan Wonder: Only one pan required for minimal cleanup.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The dish is packed with creamy and rich flavors from the garlic, butter, and cream sauce.
• Comfort Food with a Fresh Twist: A comforting meal that feels fresh and light with the addition of spinach and mushrooms.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with ingredient substitutions like different greens or a dairy-free twist with coconut milk.
• Family Favorite: Reminiscent of cozy Sunday lunches, this dish is sure to bring everyone around the table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Can be made ahead and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Adaptable Protein: Salmon can be swapped with shrimp for a quicker cooking time.
• Pairs Well with Multiple Sides: Serve with rice, noodles, or bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or keep it light with a simple green salad on the side.
• French and European Flavors: Offers a taste of French-inspired kitchens with a nod to classic northern European flavors.

Ingredients for Savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms

Main

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Vegetables

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed

Aromatics

• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced

Sauce

• 60 millilitres chicken broth
• 120 millilitres heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Seasoning

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Pro Tips for Savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms

To make the perfect garlic butter salmon with spinach and mushrooms, ensure your salmon is dry before searing to achieve a crispy crust. Start by searing the salmon skin-side down in a hot pan with olive oil without moving it for a golden finish. Be attentive while cooking the salmon, aiming for opaque flesh and flakiness, about 4-5 minutes per side.

For a creamier sauce, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach before adding it to the dish to prevent the sauce from becoming watery. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, keeping in mind that the texture will be less rich and creamy. When reheating leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container and gently reheat it on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to maintain the creamy sauce and tender salmon.

How to Make Savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms

Step 1: Sear Salmon Fillets

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat salmon fillets dry, season with salt and black pepper, and sear in the skillet for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and almost cooked through. Transfer salmon to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Cook mushrooms until softened and lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in spinach and sauté until just wilted.

Step 3: Prepare Creamy Sauce

Combine chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme in a saucepan. Simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Place the seared salmon back in the pan, arranging the fillets in the sauce. Spoon sauce and vegetables over the fish generously. Serve hot immediately.

Storage Tips

After preparing the garlic butter salmon with spinach and mushrooms, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to enjoy the dish again, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid freezing the dish as the sauce can separate, impacting the overall texture and taste upon thawing.

For variations, you can consider using baby kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different leafy green flavor profile. If heavy cream is not available, full-fat coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to create a creamy texture. Additionally, if you prefer a different protein, shrimp can be substituted for the salmon, adjusting the searing time accordingly. Serve the dish with rice pilaf, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, and consider adding a squeeze of lemon and chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions for ingredients in this garlic butter salmon dish, there are a few options to consider. If you don’t have spinach, you can use baby kale or arugula as alternatives, which will provide a slightly different flavor profile but still work well in the dish. For a dairy-free twist, you can replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, which will add a hint of coconut flavor to the sauce.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the texture will be less rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious. Additionally, if you want to switch up the protein, shrimp can be used as a substitute for the salmon. Just be sure to adjust the searing time accordingly to ensure the shrimp is cooked through without becoming tough.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this garlic butter salmon with spinach and mushrooms, consider serving it over a bed of creamy Parmesan risotto. The richness of the risotto will complement the creamy sauce of the salmon while adding a delightful texture contrast. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a luxurious touch.

For a lighter option, serve the garlic butter salmon alongside a refreshing quinoa and avocado salad. The nuttiness of the quinoa and the creaminess of the avocado will balance out the richness of the salmon dish perfectly. Drizzle some lemon vinaigrette over the salad for a burst of fresh citrus flavor that will brighten up the entire meal.

FAQs for Savory Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms

Can I use a different leafy green if I don’t have spinach?

Yes, you can substitute baby kale or arugula for spinach in this recipe. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference.

Can I freeze leftover salmon with the creamy sauce?

No, I do not recommend freezing this dish as the sauce can separate upon thawing. It’s best to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days and gently reheat when ready to eat.

How can I make the sauce lighter if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream to create a lighter sauce. Just keep in mind that the texture may be less rich and creamy compared to using heavy cream.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Watch for the salmon flesh to turn opaque and become flaky. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Avoid overcooking by not leaving the salmon in the hot pan for too long.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Salmon Spinach Mushrooms is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of salmon with the earthiness of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach. The velvety cream sauce ties everything together beautifully, making it a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Whether you are cooking for a date night or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different greens, protein options, or even dairy-free alternatives. Cooking is all about creativity and personal taste, so feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your preferences. Remember to savor each bite of this Garlic Butter Salmon Spinach Mushrooms dish and enjoy the heartwarming flavors that come together in every mouthful. Happy cooking!