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Creamy Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Salmon

A delightful dish that features tender salmon enveloped in a creamy sauce with spinach and roasted red peppers, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: creamy sauce, Salmon, Spinach
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Main ingredients

  • 4 fillets salmon fillets (about 1 lb total, skin-on) Juicy pieces of salmon rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil A flavorful, healthy fat that helps sear the salmon to perfection.
  • 1 tbsp butter Adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, diced Sweet and smoky, these peppers provide a burst of flavor.
  • 3 cups baby spinach Fresh and vibrant, this leafy green wilts beautifully into the sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely diced Aromatic and pungent, garlic elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
  • 3/4 cup half & half or heavy cream Creamy and luscious, it creates the sauce's backbone.
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan This hard cheese adds depth and a salty kick.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) A hint of heat to complement the flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Adds a touch of warmth.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Season the salmon fillets simply with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Place the salmon fillets skin-side up and sear for about 5 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust.
  • Flip the fillets carefully and cook until they are just done, around another 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Cooking

  • Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the finely diced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
  • Stir in the diced roasted red peppers and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
  • Add the baby spinach to the pan and allow it to wilt down in just a couple of minutes.
  • Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the half & half or heavy cream, followed by the grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Serving

  • Return the seared salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece. Allow them to heat through for a couple of minutes.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Control the heat to avoid curdling the cream. For variations, consider using chicken or tofu.