If you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in for a treat! This Salmon Florentine recipe combines the deliciousness of perfectly seared salmon with a creamy, flavorful spinach and mushroom sauce. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a healthy and easy dinner option that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Introduction to Salmon Florentine
Salmon Florentine is an elegant yet simple dish, inspired by the traditional French technique of preparing food “à la Florentine” (with spinach). This recipe enhances that method with the savory addition of mushrooms and a creamy sauce that complements the crispy, pan-seared salmon. The combination of nutritious salmon, fresh baby spinach, and earthy mushrooms makes this meal a perfect choice for both lunch and dinner.
This dish is great for those who love rich flavors but want something that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for seafood lovers, this Salmon Florentine recipe is not only delightful but packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that are great for your health.
Ingredients for Salmon Florentine
Here’s everything you need to make this scrumptious Salmon Florentine at home. These ingredients are simple and readily available in most grocery stores.
- Salmon Fillets (skin off) – 4 pieces
- Salt – ¼ tsp.
- Red Chili Flakes – ¼ tsp.
- Vegetable Oil – 2 tbsp.
For the Florentine Sauce:
- Onion (finely chopped) – 1 medium
- Garlic (minced) – 1 tbsp.
- Mushrooms (sliced) – 0.5 lbs (250g)
- Half & Half – 1 ¼ cup
- Cornstarch – 1 tbsp.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – 2 tbsp.
- Baby Spinach – 7 oz (200g)
- Red Chili Flakes – ¼ tsp.
- Lemon Juice – 1 tbsp.
- Salt – To taste
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace half & half with coconut cream or almond milk.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
How to Make Salmon Florentine: Step by Step
This Salmon Florentine recipe is easy to follow and requires just one pan, making it perfect for a quick, delicious weeknight meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon fillets with salt and red chili flakes. In a large non-stick pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets for about 5 minutes per side, or until they are crispy on the outside and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Using the same pan, sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re browned and tender, which should take around 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Florentine Sauce
In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the half & half. Slowly pour this mixture into the pan with the vegetables. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce begins to thicken. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Once the sauce has thickened, add the baby spinach to the pan. Allow the spinach to cook down, stirring occasionally until wilted. Season the sauce with additional salt, red chili flakes, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Finally, return the seared salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce over the top of each piece. Let the salmon heat through for a minute or two. Serve your Salmon Florentine immediately, pairing it with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips for Making Salmon Florentine
Here are some tips to ensure your Salmon Florentine turns out perfectly every time:
- Tip 1: Make sure the salmon is dry before searing to achieve the crispiest crust.
- Tip 2: Use fresh baby spinach for the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach can be used but make sure to drain excess water.
- Tip 3: The sauce can be made thicker or thinner based on preference by adjusting the amount of cornstarch.
- Tip 4: For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
Cooking Techniques for the Best Salmon Florentine
- Technique 1: Always use a heavy-bottomed pan or non-stick skillet to ensure even heat distribution for perfectly seared salmon.
- Technique 2: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer. Salmon is best cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Technique 3: Whisk the half & half and cornstarch mixture well before adding it to the pan to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions for Salmon Florentine
Salmon Florentine is best served with simple sides that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy, green side that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted with olive oil and garlic, asparagus pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: For a more comforting, indulgent meal, serve the salmon over creamy mashed potatoes.
For beverages, consider a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Nutritional Information
Salmon Florentine is a nutrient-dense dish packed with vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.2g
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Calcium: 10% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Salmon Florentine
If you have leftovers, store your Salmon Florentine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat or microwave on medium power to avoid overcooking. You can also reheat the sauce separately, adding a splash of milk or water if it becomes too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Salmon Florentine
- Can I use frozen salmon for Salmon Florentine? Yes, just make sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Can I substitute the mushrooms? Absolutely! You can use other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers if mushrooms aren’t your favorite.
- Is this dish keto-friendly? Yes, Salmon Florentine is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for a keto diet.
- How can I make this dairy-free? To make it dairy-free, substitute the half & half with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
Related Recipes for Salmon Lovers
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy these other delightful seafood dishes:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread: A hearty dish filled with savory ingredients.
- Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix: A delicious appetizer perfect for parties.
Conclusion
There you have it! A complete, flavorful Salmon Florentine recipe that’s easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and healthy too. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a fancy dinner at home. If you give this recipe a try, let us know how it turned out in the comments below, and feel free to share your own twists on the dish. Enjoy!
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Salmon Florentine Recipe | Easy One-Pan Meal Ready in 25 Minutes
Description
If you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in for a treat! This Salmon Florentine recipe combines the deliciousness of perfectly seared salmon with a creamy, flavorful spinach and mushroom sauce. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also a healthy and easy dinner option that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- Salmon Fillets (skin off) – 4 pieces
- Salt – ¼ tsp.
- Red Chili Flakes – ¼ tsp.
- Vegetable Oil – 2 tbsp.
For the Florentine Sauce:
- Onion (finely chopped) – 1 medium
- Garlic (minced) – 1 tbsp.
- Mushrooms (sliced) – 0.5 lbs (250g)
- Half & Half – 1 ¼ cup
- Cornstarch – 1 tbsp.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – 2 tbsp.
- Baby Spinach – 7 oz (200g)
- Red Chili Flakes – ¼ tsp.
- Lemon Juice – 1 tbsp.
- Salt – To taste
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace half & half with coconut cream or almond milk.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon fillets with salt and red chili flakes. In a large non-stick pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon fillets for about 5 minutes per side, or until they are crispy on the outside and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Using the same pan, sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re browned and tender, which should take around 5 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Florentine Sauce
In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the half & half. Slowly pour this mixture into the pan with the vegetables. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce begins to thicken. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Once the sauce has thickened, add the baby spinach to the pan. Allow the spinach to cook down, stirring occasionally until wilted. Season the sauce with additional salt, red chili flakes, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Finally, return the seared salmon fillets to the pan, spooning the creamy sauce over the top of each piece. Let the salmon heat through for a minute or two. Serve your Salmon Florentine immediately, pairing it with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Tip 1: Make sure the salmon is dry before searing to achieve the crispiest crust.
- Tip 2: Use fresh baby spinach for the best flavor and texture. Frozen spinach can be used but make sure to drain excess water.
- Tip 3: The sauce can be made thicker or thinner based on preference by adjusting the amount of cornstarch.
- Tip 4: For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
