Seared Garlic-Butter Salmon with Creamed Spinach and Lemon-Chive Oil

Backstory/Nutritional insights: As Dr. Kobe Keto, I combine precise technique with keto science. This dish is protein-forward, high in healthy fats from salmon and butter, and low in carbs thanks to spinach — ideal for keeping you satiated and in ketosis.

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 2 salmon fillets (6–7 oz each), skin on
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups fresh spinach (about 6–8 oz)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened (optional for extra creaminess) — contains dairy
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese — contains dairy
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon-infused olive oil or extra virgin olive oil
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving Allergens: fish, dairy.

Instructions

1. Prep salmon: Pat fillets dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let rest 5–10 minutes.
2. Make lemon-chive oil: In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, lemon-infused oil (or EVOO), and chopped chives. Add a pinch of salt. Set aside.
3. Sear salmon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tbsp olive oil. Place salmon skin-side down and press gently for 10–15 seconds to ensure even contact. Cook 4–5 minutes skin-side down until skin is crisp and edges opaque. Flip, add 1 tbsp butter, and spoon butter over the top while cooking 2–3 more minutes for medium (adjust to preferred doneness). Remove salmon to a plate and tent loosely.
4. Creamed spinach: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 30–45 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Add spinach in batches, wilting each batch. Once all spinach is wilted, stir in heavy cream and cream cheese (if using) until smooth. Cook 1–2 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
5. Finish and plate: Reheat salmon briefly in skillet if needed, spoon some garlic-butter from the pan over fillets. Spoon creamed spinach onto plates, place salmon on top. Drizzle lemon-chive oil over the salmon and around the plate. Serve with lemon wedges.

Flavor profile

• Rich, buttery salmon with a crisp skin; garlicky, tangy creamed spinach; bright citrus-herb notes from the lemon-chive oil balance the richness.

Keto-Friendly explanation

• High in healthy fats (salmon, butter, cream), moderate protein, minimal carbs (spinach and lemon). Dairy adds fat and creaminess; carbs remain low, keeping this meal aligned with ketogenic macros.