Name: Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 fillets salmon; 1 tsp garlic salt; Ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 small shallot, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk; ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 4 cups fresh baby spinach

If you crave a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and creamy indulgence, you have to try this Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that feels fancy but comes together so easily. The luscious coconut milk sauce enriched with garlic and parmesan perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon, while the bright lemon juice and fresh spinach add a pop of color and brightness. Every bite brings a wonderful balance of richness, tang, and warmth that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat white plate with four pieces of raw, light pink fish fillets layered slightly over each other in the center. Above the plate, a small white bowl holds a dollop of thick white cream. Surrounding the plate are fresh dark green spinach leaves on the upper right, a bunch of fresh parsley on the left bottom, a small bowl with pale yellow minced garlic to the left center, a small bowl with a light yellow square of butter below the plate, and a small bowl with dried green herbs near the bottom center. A bright yellow lemon sits to the right of the butter. A pink shallot lies near the lemon. A metal measuring cup with finely grated white cheese is on the left side. A can of coconut milk with a white and blue label stands on the lower left. All items are arranged on a wooden surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays an essential role in building the delicious layers of this dish. From the garlic salt seasoning that adds a subtle savory punch to the creamy blend of coconut milk and parmesan that makes the sauce irresistible, every item enhances the overall flavor, texture, and appeal.

Salmon fillets: Fresh, skinless fillets provide the perfect tender and flaky base.
Garlic salt: Adds a savory depth and infuses every bite with garlic goodness.
Ground black pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle kick of spice.
Unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce, giving it a rich, velvety texture.
Shallot: Diced finely to bring a sweet and mild onion flavor.
Garlic cloves: Minced to release that unmistakable aromatic punch.
Coconut milk: The creamy, slightly sweet foundation of the sauce that makes it so dreamy.
Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and creaminess, balancing the coconut perfectly.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts to add nuttiness and richness to the sauce.
Fresh baby spinach: Wilts quickly for a fresh, green, and slightly earthy contrast.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish with a vibrant citrus zing.
Fresh parsley: Chopped for a fresh herbal lift and garnish.
Fresh chives: Adds color and a mild oniony flavor to finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Salmon

Begin by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the salmon fillets on a foil-lined baking sheet then season each one generously with garlic salt and ground black pepper. Roast the salmon until it’s opaque and flakes easily, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Roasting locks in moisture while creating a beautiful texture that’s tender and juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Aromatic Base

While the salmon roasts, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and minced garlic, stirring for about a minute until fragrant and just softened. This is where the flavor foundation for the creamy sauce develops, as the aroma fills your kitchen creating mouthwatering anticipation.

Step 3: Simmer the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk and stir in the plain Greek yogurt. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the sauce gently cook down until it reduces by half, usually 8 to 10 minutes. This simmering step thickens the sauce and concentrates the flavors, creating the luscious base that carries the salmon perfectly.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach and Add Salmon

Add the fresh baby spinach directly into the simmering sauce and cook until the leaves just wilt, about two minutes. Then, nestle the roasted salmon fillets into the sauce, allowing them to soak up those brilliant flavors for a couple of minutes. This melds everything together beautifully and makes sure each bite is bursting with that signature Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe flavor.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Just before serving, stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and chives for a bright, herbal finish. Plate the salmon atop your favorite sautéed veggies or a wholesome starch, drizzle with extra sauce, and prepare to wow your taste buds.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

A black cast iron pan filled with a creamy white sauce that has fresh green spinach leaves mixed throughout. The sauce looks smooth and thick with small bits of herbs evenly spread inside. A light brown wooden spoon is partially submerged, stirring the sauce and some spinach. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface that contrasts with the dark pan and highlights the rich cream and vibrant green spinach. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley and chives are not just for looks; they add a fragrant, fresh contrast that lightens the richness of the sauce. A sprinkle of extra grated parmesan on top before serving can add an irresistible cheesy touch too.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides such as quinoa, couscous, or a simple roasted vegetable medley. For a cozy meal, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles make a comforting base that complements the creamy salmon sauce flawlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fancy presentation, serve the salmon on a bed of creamy polenta or even cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb. A lemon wedge on the side not only brightens the plate but allows your guests to add an extra citrus hug as desired. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens adds an elegant touch that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can safely store any leftover Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce and salmon together to maintain those lovely flavors melding overnight.

Freezing

While salmon can be frozen, this recipe’s creamy sauce is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze leftovers, separate the salmon and sauce, freeze the salmon fillets wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, and store the sauce separately in a sealed container. Thaw both in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the salmon and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and roasting. This keeps the texture moist and flaky.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

It’s not dairy-free as it contains butter, Greek yogurt, and Parmesan. However, you can substitute with plant-based alternatives like coconut yogurt and vegan butter to suit dietary preferences.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and reheat it gently on the stove. Just stir well and add a little liquid if it becomes too thick.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work as substitutes, or nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option, to maintain that cheesy depth of flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. Overcooking can dry it out, so check around the 10-minute mark and adjust as needed depending on fillet thickness.

Final Thoughts

Every time I make this Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe, it feels like sharing a little secret with a friend—something so flavorful, satisfying, and effortless. It’s one of those dishes that quickly becomes a favorite, bringing warmth and brightness to your dining table without the fuss. Give it a go and savor all those incredible flavors coming together in one beautiful dish!

Lemon Garlic Coconut Salmon with Spinach and Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need