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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by preparing your salmon fillets. If you bought them frozen, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will ensure that the salmon sears properly and doesn’t steam in the pan. Season the salmon fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides.
### Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach to the pan and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes, or until it wilts down. Be sure to stir it frequently to ensure that it cooks evenly. Once the spinach is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well before sautéing it to avoid excess moisture.
### Step 3: Cook the Salmon
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if there is skin). Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The goal is to get a crispy golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. If you’re unsure whether the salmon is cooked through, you can use a fork to gently flake the fish at its thickest point; it should easily come apart when fully cooked.
### Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the salmon is cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook it for 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
### Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Once the salmon fillets are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the cooked spinach back in and drizzle some of the garlic butter sauce over it. Gently toss the spinach in the sauce until it’s well coated. Transfer the spinach mixture to serving plates.
### Step 6: Add the Cheesy Topping
Place the cooked salmon fillets on top of the spinach. Spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the salmon, and then sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the fish. If you want the cheese to melt nicely, you can place the pan under a broiler for a couple of minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish the dish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for added freshness and flavor. Serve the **Cheesy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach** alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light salad. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and satisfying flavors in every bite!
## Variations and Customizations
1. **Add More Vegetables**: If you love veggies, feel free to add more vegetables to the dish. You could sauté some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the spinach for a heartier meal.
2. **Spicy Version**: For those who enjoy a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or sprinkle them on top of the salmon before serving.
3. **Swap the Cheese**: While mozzarella and Parmesan are the traditional cheeses for this dish, you could experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta for a unique twist.
4. **Use Different Herbs**: For additional flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or dill to the garlic butter sauce. These herbs complement the fish and the buttery sauce beautifully.
## Health Benefits of Cheesy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach
**Salmon** is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits, including supporting brain function, reducing inflammation, and promoting heart health. It’s also rich in high-quality protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth, and it provides essential vitamins like vitamin D, which is important for bone health, and B12, which helps with energy production.
**Spinach** is a leafy green that is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K. It’s packed with antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress. Spinach is also a good source of iron, which supports healthy blood circulation and energy levels.
**Garlic** has long been known for its medicinal properties. It contains compounds like allicin, which have been shown to support immune health, improve heart health, and lower blood pressure. Additionally, garlic has antimicrobial properties that may help combat infections.
**Butter** provides healthy fats, particularly when using grass-fed or high-quality butter. It also offers a rich source of vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function.
**Cheese**, when used in moderation, provides a source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as protein for muscle function.
## Final Thoughts
**Cheesy Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach** is a meal that beautifully balances indulgence with nutrition. It’s the kind of dish that’s impressive enough for a special occasion yet easy enough to make for a weeknight dinner. With its rich, buttery flavor, fresh spinach, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
So, whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or looking for a way to wow your guests, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides, and be sure to savor every bite of this delicious and satisfying meal.
