If you have been looking for a fancy but simple seafood dinner, this Salmon Florentine Recipe is perfect. Tender salmon fillets are topped with creamy spinach and a rich garlic sauce that feels like a restaurant salmon recipe, but it is so easy you can make it on a weeknight. Pinterest friends love this because it is beautiful on the plate, yet cozy and comforting too.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Looks and tastes like the best fish dishes from a restaurant.
- Comforting creamy sauce that works for salmon recipes for two or even family dinners.
Ingredients

Every item plays an important role in the flavor and texture of this dish:
- Salmon fillets: Mild, tender base for the creamy topping.
- Fresh spinach: Brings color and earthy balance to the rich sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates a silky, indulgent coating for the fish.
- Garlic: Adds depth and warmth to the sauce.
- Butter: Helps the sauce stay rich and glossy.
- Olive oil: Keeps salmon moist while searing.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and cuts the richness.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for salty, nutty flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then heat olive oil in a skillet until hot.
- Sear salmon on each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden, then set aside on a plate.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, stirring often.
- Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then return salmon fillets to the pan.
- Spoon the creamy spinach topping over salmon and cook for another 2 minutes until fish is fully cooked.
Mistakes to Avoid With Salmon Florentine Recipe

Do not overcook salmon or it will turn dry instead of tender. Avoid boiling the cream sauce too hard or it may separate instead of staying smooth. Do not skip lemon juice because it balances the richness. Finally, never overcrowd the skillet or your salmon will steam instead of sear.
Pro Tips
- Pat salmon dry before searing for the best golden crust.
- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a cleaner taste.
- Pair the dish with lemon beurre blanc for even more flavor depth.
- Serve with light sides like roasted vegetables, or check out snow crab legs if you want a seafood feast.
Serving Suggestions

This dish works well with simple pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. If you want to explore brunch-style seafood, serve with a lox bagel on the side. For pescatarian one pot meals, pair with roasted potatoes and vegetables. If you love sushi-style fish, an alaskan roll makes a fun starter.

Salmon Florentine Recipe
Ingredients
- – 4 salmon fillets
- – 2 cups fresh spinach
- – 1 cup heavy cream
- – 2 cloves garlic minced
- – 2 tbsp butter
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
- – 1 tbsp lemon juice
- – 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- – Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear salmon for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Remove salmon and set aside. Melt butter in the same pan and sauté garlic.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Stir in parmesan and lemon juice, then return salmon.
- Spoon creamy spinach topping over salmon and cook 2 more minutes.
Notes
- Pat salmon dry before searing for best results.
- Do not overcook cream sauce or it may separate.
- Fresh spinach gives a cleaner taste than frozen.
- Add extra lemon juice if you prefer more brightness.
FAQs
What goes good with fish like salmon florentine?
Salmon with topping is rich and creamy, so it pairs best with light sides. Steamed vegetables, lemon rice, or a fresh salad are classic. Things to eat with fish that balance richness include roasted asparagus, garlic bread, or simple couscous. Avoid very heavy sides so the salmon stays the star.
Can I make salmon florentine ahead of time?
It is best made fresh because salmon can dry when reheated. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to one day. When ready, just reheat the sauce gently, sear salmon, and combine. This makes it a great option for recipes using salmon when you want a quick dinner.
Is this recipe good for a pescatarian diet?
Yes, this is one of the best fish dishes for pescatarians. It fits well into pescatarian one pot meals when served with grains and veggies. For extra flair, you can even combine it with salmon and lobster recipes for special occasions. The creamy sauce makes it filling without needing meat.
Conclusion
This salmon florentine recipe is a warm and comforting dish that turns a simple fish dinner into something special. Save this to your Pinterest board so you can come back whenever you want a creamy, delicious salmon recipe that feels like a restaurant treat at home.