Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms

Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms is a restaurant-quality dish made in just 30 minutes. Tender, seared salmon is bathed in a creamy garlic butter sauce and paired with sautéed mushrooms and wilted spinach for a rich, savory, and elegant meal. This dish balances protein, vegetables, and indulgent flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, Creamy Sauce – Garlic, butter, and cream create a luxurious coating for the salmon and vegetables.
Perfectly Seared Salmon – Achieves a golden crust while remaining moist and tender inside.
Quick Weeknight Meal – Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Nutritious & Protein-Packed – Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.
Flavorful Vegetables – Mushrooms and spinach add texture and earthy notes.
Customizable Herbs – Fresh or dried thyme can be used to enhance aromatic depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main

2 salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless – Protein-rich, tender fillets for the centerpiece.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the salmon to a golden finish.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce and vegetables.

Vegetables

2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed – Provides a tender, lightly wilted green base.
1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Adds earthy flavor and texture.

Aromatics

3 garlic cloves, finely minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.

Sauce

120 ml heavy cream – Creates a velvety, indulgent consistency.
60 ml chicken broth – Adds moisture and subtle savory flavor.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Provides slight tang and flavor complexity.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme – Aromatic herb to complement salmon.

Seasoning

Salt, to taste – Enhances all flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Adds subtle heat and aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Salmon – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat salmon dry, season with salt and pepper, and cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
Sauté Vegetables – In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook mushrooms until softened and lightly browned (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then add spinach and sauté until just wilted.
Prepare the Sauce – Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Whisk in Dijon mustard and thyme. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Combine and Serve – Return salmon to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Spoon sauce and vegetables over the fillets. Serve immediately while hot.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Room Temperature Salmon – Rest fillets for 15 minutes before cooking for even searing.
Fresh vs. Dried Thyme – Fresh thyme provides brighter aroma, dried thyme works as a convenient alternative.
Don’t Overcook Salmon – Slightly undercooked salmon will continue to cook in the sauce.
Even Sizing – Use similarly sized fillets for consistent cooking.
Sauce Consistency – Simmer gently to avoid separating cream; whisk continuously.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 plated portions
Calories: 598 per serving
Total Fat: 39 g
Total Carbohydrate: 7.4 g
Protein: 53.2 g

Perfect Pairings

Steamed asparagus or green beans – Adds a light, crisp vegetable contrast.
Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash – Complements creamy sauce and balances richness.
Crusty bread – Ideal for soaking up garlic butter sauce.
Chilled white wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with salmon.

Ideal Occasions

Romantic dinners – Elegant yet simple presentation.
Weeknight meals – Quick to prepare without compromising flavor.
Special occasions – Serves as a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Healthy indulgence – High-protein, low-carb option for balanced nutrition.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigeration – Store cooked salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Reheating – Warm gently on the stovetop to maintain sauce consistency and salmon texture.
Freeze Components Separately – Salmon and sauce can be frozen individually; avoid freezing cream-heavy sauce directly on fish.
Serve Immediately – Best enjoyed hot to preserve creamy sauce and tender salmon.

Creative Variations to Try

Lemon Garlic Butter – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.
Herb Medley – Mix parsley, tarragon, or dill into the sauce.
Vegetable Add-Ins – Include cherry tomatoes or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Salmon Overcooked – Reduce searing time; fish continues to cook in sauce.
Cream Separates – Simmer gently and whisk continuously; avoid high heat.
Wilted Spinach Too Soft – Add spinach last and remove from heat once just wilted.
Mushrooms Soggy – Sauté until golden and moisture evaporates before adding cream.

Why This Recipe Works

Searing salmon first locks in moisture and creates a golden crust while the gentle cream sauce ensures tenderness and richness. Garlic and butter enhance natural flavors, while thyme adds aromatic depth. Mushrooms and spinach provide textural contrast and earthy balance. Quick cooking at medium heat prevents overcooking, keeping salmon juicy. At 598 calories per serving, this dish delivers a protein-rich, satisfying, and indulgent meal without being overly heavy.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms is a versatile, elegant dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It combines tender salmon, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce in a balanced, satisfying meal. With minimal prep and customizable options, it’s a healthy yet indulgent dish that feels gourmet while being approachable for home cooks.