Creamy Spinach Salmon Baked

This baked salmon with creamy spinach sauce solves that nightly dinner dilemma when you want something satisfying but quick The salmon turns perfectly flaky in the oven and gets topped with a sauce that is velvety with parmesan and hints of garlic This is my go-to for weeknights when I am craving something nourishing but a little special too

The first time I made this creamy spinach salmon I was amazed how quickly it disappeared at the dinner table Even picky eaters love the richness of the sauce

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: choose fresh center cut fillets with bright color and moist flesh for best texture
• Olive oil: extra virgin adds rich flavor and helps prevent sticking during baking
• Salt and pepper: always season to taste for layers of flavor
• Smoked paprika: optional adds gentle smoky depth if using seek out Spanish style paprika
• Lemon: fresh slices brighten up the fish both as garnish and for a squeeze at the end
• Fresh spinach: use whole leaves for best flavor and vibrant green color
• Butter: just a touch for richness to start the sauce
• Garlic: fresh cloves for bold flavor never skip the garlic because it makes the sauce shine
• Heavy cream: creates the luscious creamy base for the sauce use the freshest you find
• Parmesan cheese: use real parmigiano reggiano if possible for nutty salty flavor
• Nutmeg: optional but gives a subtle warmth that compliments the cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salmon:

Pat salmon fillets dry and arrange them on a parchment lined or lightly greased baking sheet Drizzle olive oil over each fillet then season generously with salt pepper and paprika if using

Bake the Salmon:

Slide the sheet into an oven preheated to two hundred degrees celsius Let the salmon bake for twelve to fifteen minutes depending on thickness You want it to flake easily at the thickest part

Sauté the Garlic and Spinach:

While salmon bakes melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat Add minced garlic stirring constantly until it is deeply fragrant but not brown about thirty seconds Toss in fresh spinach Stir softly for two to three minutes until wilted down and glossy

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Turn the heat to low and gently stir in heavy cream letting it blend with the spinach for a minute Mix in the parmesan cheese with a small pinch of nutmeg if using Keep stirring until the sauce begins to thicken slightly Make sure everything is silky smooth

Assemble and Serve:

Place salmon fillets on plates Spoon plenty of the creamy spinach sauce on top Garnish with lemon slices a pinch of extra parmesan and serve right away

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My favorite part is the creamy spinach sauce I first made it with leftover greens and now it is my secret for making any weeknight feel special The kids always ask for extra sauce

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftover salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers for best quality The sauce may thicken as it chills so add a splash of cream or water before reheating Gently reheat at low heat on the stove to keep the fish moist

Ingredient Substitutions

Try substituting Greek yogurt for half the cream for a lighter option Use arugula or kale instead of spinach for a peppery kick If you do not have parmesan pecorino romano works well too For dairy free use coconut cream just know it will change the flavor slightly

Serving Suggestions

This creamy salmon is wonderful over steamed rice or fluffy mashed potatoes A side of roasted baby potatoes or garlic bread pairs perfectly For a simple meal add a crisp green salad to balance the richness

Cultural and Historical Context

Salmon has long been a staple in northern European and American cooking Pairing fish with a creamy vegetable sauce reflects French and Italian traditions where richness from dairy balances the clean taste of seafood It is a classic combination that feels special yet comforting

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the salmon juicy?

Bake the salmon just until it flakes easily with a fork or reaches 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to preserve moisture.

→ Can I prepare the creamy spinach sauce ahead?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Gently reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or a simple fresh salad complement the creamy salmon beautifully.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Frozen spinach works well; thaw and drain excess liquid before adding to the pan for best texture.

→ Is there a lighter sauce alternative?

You can use Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream, adjusting seasoning as needed for a tangy, lower-fat option.

→ How can I add extra flavor?

Try including sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes in the spinach sauce, or finish with extra lemon juice for brightness.