This Salmon Florentine is a delightful dish featuring tender salmon atop a bed of spinach, all smothered in a creamy garlic sauce. It’s rich, tasty, and perfect for impressing guests!
I love how the garlic cream sauce brings everything together. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! 😋 Serve it with some rice or crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is key for this dish. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with trout or even skinless chicken breasts. They won’t provide the same flavor but will still be delicious.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for wilting into the sauce. If you have frozen spinach, use that; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute if you’re dairy-free. Keep in mind the sauce might not be as thick or rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works wonders, but you can swap it for Pecorino Romano if you want a stronger cheese flavor. If you’re vegan, opt for nutritional yeast instead.
Butter: If you prefer a vegan option, use olive oil or vegan butter. It will work well with the recipe, though the richness will be a bit different.
How Can I Make Sure My Garlic Doesn’t Burn?
Garlic can easily go from fragrant to burnt if you’re not careful! Here are some tips:
- Always sauté garlic over medium heat. This helps control the cooking and keeps it from burning.
- Add garlic to the pan after the butter is bubbling but before it begins to turn brown.
- Stir the garlic constantly for about a minute. Its aroma will fill the kitchen without turning bitter!
What’s the Best Way to Get My Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Getting salmon perfectly cooked can be tricky! Here’s what to do:
- Make sure the fillets are at room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Use medium-high heat to properly sear the salmon. Look for a golden crust after 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Use a fork to check for flakiness and ensure it’s opaque in the center—this means it’s done!
With these tips and insights, you’re set to make a delicious Salmon Florentine with garlic cream sauce. Enjoy cooking!
Salmon Florentine With Garlic Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Salmon Florentine comes together in about 20 minutes. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and the rest cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough for company!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Generously season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the seasoned salmon fillets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a lovely golden crust forms and they are cooked through, yet moist inside. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and toss in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown.
4. Add the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring frequently as it wilts. This should take around 2-3 minutes. It’s perfectly fine if it reduces down significantly!
5. Create the Cream Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you like a bit of heat, the red chili flakes. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the last tablespoon of butter for that extra richness. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Now, return the salmon fillets to the skillet, placing them atop the creamy spinach. Spoon some of that delicious sauce over the fish to enhance the flavor.
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to have some crusty bread or rice on the side to soak up all that yummy garlic cream sauce!
Enjoy your elegant and delicious Salmon Florentine with creamy garlic sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to ensure a good sear!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce might be a little less thick. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even zucchini. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before adding the cream to ensure everything melds well together.
