Salmon Florentine is an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that pairs seared salmon fillets with a creamy, garlic-infused spinach sauce. Rich with Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon for brightness, this one-pan recipe is perfect for both cozy weeknights and dinner parties. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes—delivering restaurant-quality flavor at home.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups fresh spinach
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice of 1 lemon

Directions

Season salmon with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear salmon skin-side up for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.

Add spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).

Stir in Parmesan and lemon juice. Let the sauce thicken slightly.

Return salmon to skillet and spoon sauce over the fillets. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.

Serve hot with extra sauce.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: ~500mg
Fiber: 1g

The Magic Of Florentine-Style Cooking

The term “Florentine” traditionally refers to dishes made in the style of Florence, Italy, and it almost always involves spinach and a creamy sauce. Salmon Florentine embraces this concept fully by using tender baby spinach that melts into a luxurious cream sauce seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty depth, while a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish and cuts through the richness. The result is a sauce that’s both decadent and balanced, the perfect companion to seared salmon’s buttery, flaky texture.

Why Salmon Works So Well In This Recipe

Salmon is the ideal protein for Florentine-style sauces because of its natural richness and meaty texture. When seared properly, it develops a crisp golden crust while staying moist and tender inside. The mild but distinct flavor of salmon holds its own against the creamy spinach sauce without being overpowered. Plus, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, making it a nutrient-dense option that feels indulgent but supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether you use fillets with skin or opt for skinless portions, the salmon takes on a beautiful golden hue and acts as the perfect base for spoonfuls of creamy sauce.

A One-Pan Wonder With Restaurant-Worthy Results

One of the most appealing aspects of Salmon Florentine is how it delivers such impressive flavor and presentation using just one pan. After searing the salmon, the same skillet is used to build the sauce, allowing all those delicious browned bits to infuse the cream with extra flavor. The spinach wilts into the sauce in just minutes, and the final return of the salmon to the skillet ensures everything is warmed through and coated with the savory mixture. This streamlined method keeps things simple and minimizes cleanup, without sacrificing elegance or depth.

Quick Enough For Weeknights, Fancy Enough For Guests

This dish is ready in under thirty minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want something special without the hassle. At the same time, it looks and tastes impressive enough to serve at a dinner party or special occasion. The creamy sauce, fragrant with garlic and Parmesan, feels luxurious, while the vibrant green spinach adds a pop of color that enhances the visual appeal. Serve it directly in the skillet for a rustic, cozy vibe, or plate it with a side of rice or roasted potatoes for a more formal presentation.

Rich Flavor Without Overcomplicating Ingredients

The ingredients in Salmon Florentine are familiar and easy to find, but when combined, they create a deeply satisfying flavor profile. Garlic forms the aromatic foundation, followed by heavy cream and chicken broth that come together to form a smooth, velvety sauce. Italian seasoning adds herbal complexity, while Parmesan lends salty umami richness. The finishing touch—fresh lemon juice—not only adds a subtle brightness but also cuts through the cream to keep the sauce from feeling too heavy. The dish delivers complexity without relying on hard-to-find ingredients or lengthy prep work.

Nutrient-Rich And Balanced

Salmon Florentine offers a satisfying balance of macronutrients in every serving. Each portion provides about 450 calories with 35 grams of protein and only 5 grams of carbohydrates. The healthy fats from the salmon and cream provide richness and satiety, while the spinach adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. This makes the dish compatible with low-carb and keto lifestyles, but it can also be paired with whole grains or potatoes for those who prefer a heartier meal. It’s a flexible recipe that fits many dietary preferences without compromising flavor.

Variations And Customization Ideas

This recipe is also easy to adapt. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Want to add more vegetables? Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts can be sautéed along with the garlic to bulk up the sauce. If you’re not a fan of chicken broth, vegetable broth or white wine can be used for a different depth of flavor. You can even swap the salmon for chicken breasts or cod fillets if desired, using the same sauce base for a versatile Florentine approach.

Perfect Pairings To Complete The Meal

To round out the dish, consider serving Salmon Florentine with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a soft polenta base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully. If you’re keeping things low-carb, cauliflower mash or roasted broccoli makes a fantastic match. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs perfectly, as its acidity complements the richness of the sauce. For a light starter, a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette prepares the palate and keeps the meal balanced and refreshing.

Great For Meal Prep And Leftovers

Salmon Florentine is also a fantastic option for meal prep. The dish reheats well and retains its flavor and texture for a day or two after cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The sauce may thicken slightly after refrigeration, but a splash of broth or cream can loosen it up during reheating. It’s a luxurious lunch or quick dinner that tastes just as delicious the next day.

Conclusion

Salmon Florentine is a dish that proves you don’t need complex ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a meal that feels elegant and indulgent. The seared salmon brings heartiness and flavor, while the creamy spinach-Parmesan sauce adds richness and depth. With its simple preparation, beautiful presentation, and balanced nutrition, this one-pan wonder is perfect for everything from weeknight meals to entertaining guests. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular part of your cooking rotation, offering a restaurant-quality experience from the comfort of home.