Baked Salmon With Spinach is a simple and tasty dish that brings together flaky salmon and tender, sautéed spinach. The salmon turns out juicy and full of flavor, while the spinach adds a lovely, fresh green touch that balances the plate perfectly. It’s a straightforward meal that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
I love making this dish because it’s one of those recipes that feels healthy without being boring. I usually season the salmon with just a bit of lemon, garlic, and herbs, which really brings out its natural taste. The spinach gets cooked quickly so it stays soft but still bright and fresh. It’s one of my go-to dinners when I want something quick that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.
When I serve Baked Salmon With Spinach, I like to add a side of roasted potatoes or a simple grain like quinoa to soak up any extra juices. It’s a comforting meal that feels light but still filling. This dish is perfect for weeknights, but it’s also nice enough to bring out when friends come over. I always look forward to making it because salmon and spinach is a classic combo that never disappoints.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for moist, flaky fish. If you can’t find fresh, frozen wild-caught salmon works well too. For a different flavor, try trout or cod.
Spinach: Fresh spinach cooks quickly and keeps a nice green color. Baby spinach is gentler and tender. If you prefer, kale or Swiss chard can be used but will take a bit longer to cook.
Heavy cream & butter: These give the sauce a rich, creamy texture. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk. Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
Garlic & lemon juice: Garlic adds aroma and depth, while lemon juice brightens the whole dish. If fresh lemon isn’t handy, a splash of white wine vinegar makes a good stand-in.
How Do You Make Salmon Tender and Not Overcooked?
It’s easy to dry out salmon, but a few tricks keep it tender and juicy:
- Preheat your oven properly; 400°F is perfect for baking salmon evenly.
- Don’t overbake—check for flakiness after 12 minutes, then test every minute or so.
- Use olive oil to coat the fish. It helps lock in moisture and creates a nice crust.
- Adding lemon juice before baking adds subtle acidity that keeps the texture gentle.
Rest the salmon briefly after baking; it finishes cooking while resting and stays moist.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Spinach Without Losing Its Bright Color?
Spinach wilts fast when cooked, so keep it vibrant by:
- Using medium heat and stirring often.
- Cooking spinach just until wilted—around 3-4 minutes is enough.
- Adding salt toward the end to avoid breaking down the leaves too much.
- Finishing with cream and parsley off heat to keep that fresh color and flavor.
This way, you get tender spinach that looks and tastes fresh with a lovely creamy boost.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for roasting the salmon evenly without sticking.
- Parchment paper – helps keep the baking sheet clean and prevents sticking.
- Large sauté pan – great for quickly cooking the spinach without crowding.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – gentle for stirring spinach and scraping the pan.
- Measuring spoons – help you add the right amount of seasoning and lemon juice.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for trout or cod for a different texture and milder taste.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the salmon for a spicy kick.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes with the spinach for more flavor and color.
- Top the salmon with crumbled feta or goat cheese instead of creamy parsley sauce to add tanginess.
How to Make Baked Salmon With Spinach?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp black peppercorns, crushed
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For The Spinach:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake the salmon and cook the spinach. In total, you’ll be ready to serve delicious baked salmon with creamy spinach in about 20-25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Bake the Salmon:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the salmon fillets on the sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, then sprinkle sea salt, crushed black peppercorns, and minced garlic on top. Finish by drizzling with lemon juice. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
2. Cook the Spinach:
While your salmon bakes, heat butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted and tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream and chopped parsley, and warm it through before removing from heat.
3. Serve:
Place the creamy spinach on each plate and top it with a baked salmon fillet. Spoon a little of the creamy parsley sauce from the spinach pan over the salmon. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful, healthy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before baking. This helps ensure even cooking and maintains a tender texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the salmon.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Definitely! For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk. If you want a dairy-free version, replace the butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cream alternative.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Baked Salmon and Spinach?
Roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple rice pilaf complement this dish beautifully and help soak up the flavorful sauce.