This Salmon Florentine is a creamy dish that features tender salmon on a bed of spinach, all topped with a delicious garlic cream sauce. It’s comforting and oh-so-simple to prepare!
I love how the garlic adds a nice kick without being too strong. Pair it with rice or pasta, and you’ve got a fantastic meal that feels fancy but is easy to make at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Use fresh salmon fillets for tenderness. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using skinless chicken breast instead. Both still taste great with the sauce!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is ideal, but if you can only find frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly, so it doesn’t water down the sauce. You could also substitute with kale for a different flavor.
Mushrooms: While cremini and white button mushrooms are classic choices, you can switch them out for shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a richer taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half works well, or you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind, coconut will add a different flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano can give a different but equally delicious taste. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute that captures that cheesy flavor.
How Do You Make Sure the Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it! Start with medium-high heat to get a nice crust without burning.
- Cook salmon skin-side down if it’s on, as it helps lock in moisture.
- Check for doneness with a fork – if it flakes easily, it’s done. Salmon should reach an internal temperature of about 145°F.
- Let the salmon rest briefly before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute.
By taking these steps, your salmon will be juicy, flavorful, and ready to shine in your creamy sauce!
Salmon Florentine With Garlic Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (e.g., cremini or white button)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onion, chopped for garnish
Time Needed:
This delightful Salmon Florentine takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and flavorful dish that you can whip up in under 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning both sides of the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a hint of smokiness. This will add flavor and help form a nice crust when cooking.
2. Cook Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Mushrooms:
In the same pan, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their moisture. This step brings out their rich flavor.
4. Add Garlic and Spinach:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pan, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the fresh spinach, cooking until it just wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.
5. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream alongside the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so it thickens slightly, making it creamy and luscious.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich texture. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste, which enhances the overall flavor.
7. Assemble the Dish:
Carefully return the cooked salmon fillets to the pan, placing them on top of the creamy mixture. Use a spoon to drizzle some of that delicious sauce over the salmon for added flavor.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onion for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Salmon Florentine immediately alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or some crusty bread to soak up every drop of that wonderful garlic cream sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Salmon Florentine with Garlic Cream Sauce! It’s sure to impress.
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Fish?
Absolutely! You can use other firm fish fillets such as cod, halibut, or trout. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish.
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream or whole milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind the sauce may not be as thick or rich, so you might need to simmer it a bit longer to achieve a desired consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian-Friendly?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, substitute the salmon with tofu or another plant-based protein and use vegetable broth. Keep the spinach, mushrooms, and garlic cream sauce, and you’ll have a delicious meatless option!
