Did you know salmon has up to 2.3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per 3-ounce serving? This dish is not only tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s a game-changer for your weeknight dinners.
I’m thrilled to share a salmon and spinach recipe that’s both delicious and healthy. It’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s ideal for anyone looking for quick, nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.
This recipe turns simple ingredients into a gourmet dish. It combines high-protein salmon with spinach, making every bite satisfying and healthy. Each serving is full of essential nutrients, making it easy and fun to prepare.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. It promises a fantastic culinary experience that will be a favorite in your home. Get ready to take your dinner to the next level with this amazing salmon dish!
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools for Perfect Salmon
Starting a delicious meal with omega-3 rich foods means picking the right ingredients and tools. My guide will show you how to make tasty quick weeknight dinners. You’ll learn how to make baked salmon and sauteed spinach shine.
High-Quality Salmon Selection Tips
Choosing the right salmon is key for your dish. I suggest picking wild-caught salmon fillets that are:
- Fresh or properly frozen
- Bright pink or orange in color
- Firm to the touch
- Sustainably sourced
Must-Have Seasonings and Spices
To make your green vegetables and salmon even better, use these essential seasonings:
Seasoning | Flavor Profile | Recommended Amount |
---|---|---|
Garlic | Robust, intense | 1 teaspoon minced |
Lemon Zest | Bright, citrusy | 1 teaspoon |
Fresh Dill | Delicate, herbaceous | 1 tablespoon chopped |
Kosher Salt | Enhances natural flavors | ¾ teaspoon |
Black Pepper | Mild heat | ½ teaspoon |
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make the perfect salmon dish, you’ll need these tools:
- Reliable non-stick skillet
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Instant-read meat thermometer
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a delicious salmon dinner. It’s both healthy and easy to prepare!

Step-by-Step Salmon and Spinach Recipe
Making the perfect pan seared salmon for a dinner party needs care and skill. I’ll guide you through each step to make sure your salmon fillets are crispy and tasty.
Preparation Essentials
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Start by picking top-notch salmon fillets and drying them with paper towels. Seasoning is key for great flavor. Use salt, pepper, and a bit of red pepper for a zesty touch.
Cooking Technique
Warm a skillet over medium high heat with olive oil. The secret to perfect pan seared salmon is knowing the cooking time. Cook the skin side for 4-5 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for 3-4 minutes on the flesh side.
Salmon Cooking Details | Specifications |
---|---|
Salmon Weight | 1 to 1-1/4 pounds |
Cooking Time | 7-9 minutes total |
Internal Temperature | 120 degrees F (medium rare) |
Spinach Preparation
While the salmon cooks, quickly sauté 4 cups of fresh baby spinach in the same pan. This way, your spinach soaks up the salmon’s flavors and stays green and nutritious.
The outcome is a meal fit for a restaurant, ready in under 30 minutes. It combines crispy salmon with soft spinach perfectly.

Creating the Perfect Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Making a top-notch Tuscan sauce can turn a simple salmon dish into a work of art. In just 30 minutes, you’ll learn to make a sauce that’s both rich and flavorful. It will complement your salmon and fresh baby spinach perfectly.
Sauce Base Components
The base of our creamy Tuscan sauce is built on simple yet effective ingredients. Use a skillet over medium heat to bring out deep flavors. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk is a great substitute for cream.
- Garlic (5 cloves, minced)
- Sun-dried tomatoes (4 oz)
- White wine (1/3 cup)
- Coconut milk or half-and-half (1 1/4 cups)
Herb and Seasoning Combinations
The secret to a great Tuscan sauce is its herb mix. I mix dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, and fresh basil. This blend enhances the salmon’s flavor beautifully.
- Dried Italian herb mix
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp)
- Fresh basil (roughly chopped)
- Black pepper to taste
Achieving the Ideal Consistency
Getting the sauce just right takes patience and skill. Simmer it gently, stirring now and then, until it thickens. You want it to coat the back of a spatula smoothly. This will give it a velvety texture that wraps around the salmon and spinach.
Pro tip: For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It’s just as creamy and full of flavor, making sure everyone can enjoy this dish.
Nutrition Benefits and Dietary Considerations
My salmon with spinach recipe is a nutritional powerhouse that boosts overall health. Adding spinach to salmon makes a meal full of vital nutrients and great taste. This mix offers proteins, vitamins, and minerals that can change your diet for the better.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Health Benefit |
---|---|---|
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | High | Reduces inflammation, supports heart health |
Protein | 41g | Muscle maintenance and growth |
Total Calories | 421 | Balanced energy source |
Using oil in a large skillet for this dish is more than cooking. It’s a health investment. The creamy spinach adds vitamins and minerals like:
- Vitamin A for eye health
- Folate for cell function
- Iron for blood health
- Calcium for bone strength
If you follow special diets, this recipe is adaptable. Swap heavy cream for coconut milk to make it dairy-free. It fits keto, paleo, and low-carb diets well.
Nutrition is more than counting calories. It’s about picking foods that nourish your body for long-term health. This salmon with spinach recipe is a tasty way to get healthier!

Conclusion
I’ve shown you how to make a healthy salmon dish that turns your kitchen into a gourmet spot. Cooking salmon with the skin on keeps it moist and adds flavor. Adding olive oil makes it a feast for your taste buds.
This recipe is easy to play with, letting you try different salmon types. You can use baby spinach or frozen greens. Learning to pan-sear and cook at the right temperature makes your meals both tasty and healthy.
This dish is packed with nutrients. It has protein, omega-3s, and antioxidants from spinach. It’s a great mix of healthy ingredients and delicious flavors.
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. Try new seasonings and cooking methods. Most importantly, enjoy making a meal that’s good for you. Your cooking journey is just starting!
FAQ
How do I choose the best salmon fillets for this recipe?
Choose salmon that’s fresh and has a vibrant color. It should be firm and smell like the ocean. Opt for wild-caught or sustainably sourced salmon for the best taste and health benefits. Make sure it looks moist but not soggy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream instead of heavy cream. Replace butter with olive oil and skip any dairy. This keeps the dish creamy and flavorful.
What’s the best way to cook salmon without drying it out?
Cook salmon at medium-high heat using the pan-searing method. Start with the skin-side down for 4-5 minutes. Then flip and cook for 2-3 more minutes. This way, the salmon stays moist and flaky.
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It’s great for quick dinners or last-minute parties. The salmon and spinach cook fast, and the Tuscan sauce is ready in minutes.
Can I substitute the spinach with another green vegetable?
Yes, you can use kale, Swiss chard, or arugula instead of spinach. Each green adds a unique flavor. Just remember, cooking times might vary.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
You can prep parts of this recipe ahead of time. Cook the salmon and spinach just before serving for the best taste and texture. The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently.
What are the main nutritional benefits of this salmon and spinach recipe?
This recipe is full of nutrients. Salmon is rich in omega-3s, protein, and vitamins. Spinach adds iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Together, they make a healthy, heart-friendly meal.
What side dishes pair well with this salmon and spinach recipe?
Choose light sides like quinoa, roasted veggies, a green salad, or cauliflower rice. These options add texture and flavor without overpowering the main dish.

Salmon and Spinach Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 to 1-1/4 pounds of salmon fillets
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Prep the salmon: Dry salmon fillets with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook the salmon: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Cook the salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for 3-4 minutes on the flesh side until it reaches an internal temperature of 120°F (medium rare).
- Prepare the spinach: In the same skillet, sauté 4 cups of fresh baby spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, absorbing the flavors from the salmon.
- Serve: Plate the salmon with the sautéed spinach for a flavorful, nutritious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the creamy Tuscan sauce.
- This recipe is adaptable to various diets such as keto, paleo, or low-carb.
- For optimal results, pan-sear the salmon to preserve moisture and flavor.
- The recipe can be paired with light sides like quinoa or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.