Baked Salmon with Spinach is a simple and delicious meal that brings together tender salmon fillets and fresh spinach in a healthy, satisfying way. The salmon gets nice and flaky in the oven while the spinach adds a pop of green and a mild, slightly earthy flavor that pairs perfectly.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it’s quick to prepare and feels like a special treat without much fuss. A little sprinkle of lemon juice and some garlic really lift the flavors, and I usually add a pinch of salt and pepper to keep it straightforward and tasty. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to because it’s both comforting and light.
My favorite way to serve Baked Salmon with Spinach is alongside simple roasted potatoes or a side of rice. Sometimes, I even spread the spinach under the salmon before baking, so everything cooks together and the flavors really blend. It’s a little trick I picked up that makes the whole dish even easier and tastier. This is definitely a go-to when I want something healthy but still full of flavor.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best for tender, flaky fish. If fresh isn’t available, frozen salmon can be thawed and used. For a milder flavor, consider substituting with trout or cod fillets.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and light earthiness. Baby spinach or even frozen spinach (thawed and drained) are fine alternatives.
Lemon: Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If fresh lemons aren’t on hand, bottled lemon juice or a splash of lime juice can also work well.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill make a fresh, herbal note. Dried herbs can substitute, but use sparingly as they are more concentrated in flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess to the herb sauce on top of the salmon. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil mixed with herbs instead.
How Can You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon Every Time?
Salmon can quickly become dry if overcooked, so timing and temperature are key. Here’s what I do:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for a hot, fast bake that keeps salmon moist.
- Pat the salmon dry to help it sear slightly and develop a nice texture.
- Season generously but simply with salt, pepper, herbs, and lemon zest for clear flavors.
- Place salmon on a bed of spinach to keep it moist and add flavor from below.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes depending on thickness—thinner fillets need less time.
- Check for doneness by seeing if the salmon flakes easily with a fork but remains slightly translucent inside.
- Let it rest a minute after baking to let juices settle and keep salmon tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – perfect for holding the salmon and spinach while they cook evenly in the oven.
- Mixing bowl – great for tossing spinach with oil and seasoning before baking.
- Measuring spoons – help keep your lemon juice, oil, and herbs balanced for the best flavor.
- Chef’s knife – needed to chop garlic, herbs, and lemon zest easily.
- Spoon or spatula – useful for spreading spinach and drizzling sauce over the salmon.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for trout or cod if you want a different texture but still enjoy the baked fish with spinach.
- Add cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced red onions to the spinach bed for a tangy, slightly sweet twist.
- Mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese before baking for a creamy, tangy flavor boost.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika or chili flakes on the salmon for a hint of spice when you want more kick.
Baked Salmon With Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon and Spinach:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Herb Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, a pinch
For Serving:
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes roughly 5 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to bake the salmon, plus a few extra minutes to mix the herb sauce and garnish. In total, plan for about 20-25 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Spinach:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a bowl, toss the fresh spinach with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt until it’s well coated. Spread the spinach evenly on the bottom of the baking dish to create a flavorful bed for the salmon.
2. Season the Salmon:
Pat your salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they bake well. Season both sides with salt, pepper, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and dill. The fresh herbs and lemon zest add bright, fresh flavors to the fish.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the spinach in the baking dish. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the fresh lemon juice over the salmon and spinach. Bake uncovered for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
4. Make the Herb Sauce and Serve:
While the salmon bakes, mix the sour cream or Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill and a pinch of salt to make a simple, creamy herb sauce. When the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Spoon some of the dill sauce onto each salmon fillet. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your tasty and healthy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to avoid extra moisture, which can affect baking.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can season the salmon and prep the spinach in advance, then refrigerate for up to a day. Bake fresh when ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover salmon and spinach in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With Baked Salmon and Spinach?
Roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple rice pilaf complement the dish well by soaking up the flavorful juices and keeping the meal balanced.
