If you’re craving something that’s equal parts nourishing and flavor-packed, this Gochujang Salmon with Garlic Spinach delivers on every level. It’s the kind of meal that feels a little fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for a weeknight upgrade or an effortless dinner party main. The star of the show is a bold, umami-rich glaze made with gochujang—a spicy Korean chili paste that brings heat, depth, and a touch of sweetness. Balanced with honey, ginger, and toasted sesame oil, it creates a sticky, caramelized coating on the salmon that’s completely irresistible.
And it’s not just about flavor—this dish is packed with feel-good ingredients, too. Salmon is rich in heart-healthy omega-3s and high-quality protein, while ginger and garlic bring anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Coconut aminos, a soy sauce alternative made from coconut sap, offer that salty-sweet kick with less sodium, making this dish a little gentler on your system. Then there’s the baby spinach, quickly sautéed with garlic until just wilted—simple, but loaded with iron, fiber, and vitamins A and C.
The final touches—sesame seeds for crunch and nutty richness, and a sprinkle of fresh green onion—pull everything together in a dish that’s vibrant, balanced, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is proof that healthy can also be seriously crave-worthy.
Recipe
How to Prepare
Preheat the broiler to high and position a rack in the upper third of the oven. Line a baking sheet with foil and coat with ½ tsp. cooking spray.
In a small bowl make the glaze by whisking together gochujang, mirin, 1 tbsp. coconut aminos, honey, ½ tsp. sesame oil, ¼ of the grated garlic, and ginger.
Pat salmon dry and place skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with the glaze. Broil until just cooked through, 5-8 minutes, depending on thickness.
Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tsp. sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the remaining 3 cloves garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant and just starting to brown, about 3 minutes. Add spinach and cook, until wilted. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 tbsp. tamari.
Plate the salmon over the spinach and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
