Description
Creamy Tuscan Salmon is a rich, flavorful dish featuring pan-seared salmon fillets nestled in a luscious cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. This quick and easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 3 salmon filets (about 1 pound total)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
For the Sauce:
- ½ white onion, diced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup fresh baby spinach
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Season the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly.
- Sear the salmon: Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. The salmon will not be fully cooked yet as it will finish cooking in the sauce later. Remove the salmon and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet over medium heat, add the diced onions, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the onions have softened.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Lower the heat to low and stir in the baby spinach. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until the spinach wilts, about 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
- Finish cooking the salmon: Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
- The olive oil should lightly and evenly coat the bottom of the pan — just a thin layer enough to sear the salmon. Depending on your pan size, add more if necessary.
- To add a spicy kick, stir in a pinch or two of red pepper flakes into the sauce while it simmers.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a bright herbal note and visual appeal.
- Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet until warmed through to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
