This luxurious keto garlic butter salmon with spinach delivers restaurant-quality flavor while supporting your low-carb lifestyle. The rich, creamy sauce made with heavy cream and butter creates the perfect complement to omega-3 rich salmon, while fresh spinach adds vital nutrients and vibrant color to your plate.
What makes this recipe truly special is its anti-inflammatory properties and incredible macronutrient profile. With less than 4g net carbs per serving and over 30g of high-quality protein, this dish will keep you satisfied for hours while supporting ketosis. The combination of healthy fats from salmon and butter makes this meal both nourishing and delicious.
Prep Time: 10 minutes |
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 680g (1.5 lbs / 4 fillets) salmon fillets, skin-on
- 200g (7oz / 4 cups) fresh baby spinach
- 240ml (8 fl oz / 1 cup) heavy cream
- 85g (3oz / 6 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced (12g / 0.4oz)
- 60ml (2 fl oz / 1/4 cup) dry white wine or chicken broth
- 30g (1oz / 1/3 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 15ml (1 tbsp) fresh lemon juice
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt
- 2g (1/2 tsp) black pepper
- 2g (1/2 tsp) paprika
- 15g (1 tbsp) fresh dill, chopped
- 30ml (2 tbsp) avocado oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Remove salmon fillets from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
- Step 2: Season both sides of salmon fillets generously with sea salt, black pepper, and paprika. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Heat avocado oil in a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 4: Place salmon fillets skin-side up in the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden crust forms.
- Step 5: Carefully flip salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium doneness. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
- Step 6: Reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 7: Pour in white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for 1 minute.
- Step 8: Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Step 9: Stir in remaining butter, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 10: Add fresh spinach to the sauce and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes, stirring gently.
- Step 11: Return salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Cook for 1 minute to reheat.
- Step 12: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh dill, and serve immediately while hot.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fat | 37g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Chef’s Tips
- For perfectly crispy skin, ensure the salmon is completely dry before seasoning and don’t move it during the first sear – let the heat do the work.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness – internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium, or 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
- If your cream sauce breaks or curdles, remove from heat immediately and whisk in a tablespoon of cold butter to bring it back together.
Health Benefits
This keto salmon dish is packed with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which support heart health, brain function, and may help reduce inflammation throughout the body. The high-quality protein content supports muscle maintenance and satiety, while the healthy fats help optimize hormone production and nutrient absorption. Spinach provides folate, iron, and vitamin K, while garlic offers immune-supporting compounds. This nutrient-dense meal supports ketosis while delivering essential vitamins and minerals your body needs to thrive.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to prevent overcooking. The cream sauce may separate slightly when reheated – simply stir in a tablespoon of fresh cream or butter to restore smoothness. For best quality, consume within 24 hours as fish is most delicious when fresh.
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