This Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon is rich and full of flavor! With tender salmon fillets cooked in a yummy creamy garlic sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
The sun-dried tomatoes and spinach add a fresh twist that makes this dish feel fancy. I love serving it with warm bread to soak up that delicious sauce—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star of the dish, bringing a buttery texture. If you can’t find salmon, try trout or barramundi for a similar flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes brighten up the dish. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work, just drain them first.
Heavy Cream: This gives that creamy texture. You can swap it for half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano gives a nice salty kick. Nutritional yeast is a great choice for a dairy-free version!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutrients. Feel free to replace it with kale or arugula if you prefer.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon to the right doneness is key! Here are some tips:
- Start with room temperature salmon; it helps it cook evenly.
- Sear it skin-side down in hot oil to get that crispy texture.
- Don’t rush it! Let it cook on one side without moving it for about 4-5 minutes before flipping.
- Check for doneness by seeing if it’s opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon every time, nestled in that creamy sauce!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or whole (depends on size)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked fettuccine or pasta to serve underneath
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and fancy enough for a special occasion! Just gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps the fish get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully add the salmon fillets, skin side down if they have skin. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, so they get a beautiful golden brown color and cook about halfway through.
3. Flip the Salmon:
Gently flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are cooked through but still tender. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Base:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices. This will create a lovely flavor.
6. Add the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring often, until it wilts down. This should only take a minute or two.
7. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Let this simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. It’s going to smell amazing!
8. Combine with Salmon:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, and use a spoon to drizzle some of that creamy sauce over them. Let them warm in the sauce for just about 2 minutes.
9. Final Touch:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for that extra pop of flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salmon hot, topped with the creamy sauce and vegetables. You can enjoy it over cooked fettuccine or your favorite pasta, or with a slice of crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Enjoy your delightful, creamy garlic Tuscan salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or in cold water for quick thawing. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure it sears properly.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté them along with the garlic for even cooking.
