Imagine sinking your fork into a perfectly cooked fillet of salmon, bathed in a zesty lemon butter sauce that dances on your taste buds. The luscious flavors mingle with earthy garlic sautéed spinach, creating a culinary experience that’s nothing short of heavenly. This 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach is not just a dish; it’s a hug in food form, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet utterly satisfying. For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan Spiced Salmon recipe.
Now, let me take you back to my first encounter with this dish. It was a chaotic Tuesday evening, and I was juggling work emails while trying to whip up dinner. I stumbled upon this recipe and decided to give it a go. In just 30 minutes, my kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas that instantly transported me to a cozy restaurant by the sea. Ever since that night, this dish has become my go-to meal for impressing guests or simply treating myself. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can make it again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful salmon dish offers quick preparation without sacrificing flavor.
- The buttery lemon sauce elevates the salmon’s natural richness while the garlic spinach adds vibrant color and nutrition.
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious!
Ingredients for 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for bright pink fillets with no brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to enrich the sauce without overwhelming the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves provide zest and depth; choose firm ones for optimal flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the sauce its tangy brightness; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Baby Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts beautifully when sautéed and adds vibrant color and nutrients.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth balances the flavors without overpowering them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure they sear beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Sprinkle both sides of each salmon fillet generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the fish’s natural flavors.
Step 3: Sauté the Spinach
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Toss in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, around three to four minutes. Set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted and bubbling, gently place the salmon fillets skin-side down into the skillet. Cook for about four minutes before flipping carefully; cook for an additional three minutes or until cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Remove the salmon from the skillet and keep warm on a plate. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping any bits off the bottom for added flavor. Let it simmer for two minutes before whisking in another tablespoon of butter until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the sautéed spinach to the skillet, tossing everything together until heated through. Serve immediately by placing each salmon fillet atop a bed of garlicky spinach. Drizzle with lemon butter sauce for that perfect finish!
Enjoy your incredible creation! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Trust me; this dish will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
You Must Know
- This 30-minute lemon butter salmon with garlic sautéed spinach is a game changer for busy weeknights.
- The zesty flavor pairs perfectly with the tender fish, making it a delightful dish that impresses anyone at the dinner table.
- Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets while heating olive oil in a pan. Sear the salmon skin-side down until crispy, then flip and add butter and garlic. While the salmon cooks, sauté the spinach in another pan for quick and delicious results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out salmon for other fish like trout or even chicken. Want an extra kick? Add some red pepper flakes or herbs like dill or parsley to elevate the dish further. chicken caprese sheet pan dish Customize your garlic sautéed spinach with cherry tomatoes or pine nuts for added texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon and spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat to preserve moisture without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality salmon for the best flavor; fresh fish makes a noticeable difference.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan—give each fillet room to breathe and sear nicely.
- Lastly, season generously; lemon butter brings out all the deliciousness!
Cooking this dish reminds me of a dinner party where my friends devoured everything in record time. Their enthusiastic compliments made my heart swell, proving that simple ingredients could create unforgettable moments around the table.
FAQs :
What is the cooking time for 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach?
The cooking time for 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach is approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. This recipe allows you to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The salmon cooks quickly, usually taking around 10-15 minutes, while the garlic sautéed spinach takes just a few minutes to prepare. flavorful teriyaki miso cod recipe This quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or when you have unexpected guests.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for the 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach recipe. However, it’s essential to thaw the salmon before cooking it to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor. To thaw, place the salmon in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, follow the recipe as directed for best results.
What side dishes pair well with lemon butter salmon?
Lemon Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Consider serving it alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A light quinoa salad or a fresh green salad also makes an excellent accompaniment. delicious creamy vegetable soup For a heartier option, try mashed potatoes or rice pilaf to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
How do I store leftovers of lemon butter salmon?
To store leftovers of your 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture. Enjoy your leftovers within a few days for optimal taste and freshness.
Conclusion for 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach :
The 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach is a quick and delightful dish that combines rich flavors and healthy ingredients. This meal not only cooks in half an hour but also offers a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. quick egg roll in a bowl recipe With simple techniques, fresh ingredients, and minimal cleanup, this recipe stands out as an ideal choice for busy evenings while still delivering restaurant-quality taste at home. Enjoy this flavorful delight again and again!
30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon with Garlic Sautéed Spinach
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with this 30-Minute Lemon Butter Salmon, perfectly seared and drizzled with a zesty lemon butter sauce. Accompanied by vibrant garlic sautéed spinach, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests. In just half an hour, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that feels like a warm embrace on your plate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz) fresh salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, around 3 to 4 minutes. Set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add another tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4 minutes before flipping; cook for an additional 3 minutes or until cooked through.
- Remove the salmon and keep warm on a plate. Pour chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping any bits off the bottom to enhance flavor. Let it simmer for 2 minutes before whisking in another tbsp of butter until smooth.
- Return the sautéed spinach to the skillet and toss everything together until heated through. Serve immediately with salmon atop garlicky spinach and drizzle with lemon butter sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or parsley into the dish. - Feel free to substitute salmon with trout or chicken if desired. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.




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