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Creamy Tuscan Salmon Recipe

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3.8 from 3 reviews

This Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets accompanied by a rich and flavorful creamy sauce loaded with garlic, cherry tomatoes, spinach, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a gourmet-style meal that’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 salmon fillets (4 ounces each)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for the salmon, plus more as needed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus more as needed)

For the Tuscan Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 6 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
  • 18 ounces cherry tomatoes (half chopped, half whole)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 & 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (for the sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
  • 3–4 ounces spinach (chopped)
  • 1/2 bunch fresh basil (roughly chopped)

Instructions

  1. Sear the salmon: Heat a 12-inch high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Pat salmon fillets dry. Season the top with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down first if present, spacing them apart to avoid steaming. Sprinkle the uncovered side with salt and pepper. Sear for 1-3 minutes until a brown crust forms, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Turn off heat and remove salmon to a plate, keeping warm.
  2. Prepare the sauce base: Over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons butter to the same skillet with remaining oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add tomatoes: Add chopped and whole cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 1 minute until some tomatoes begin to split, releasing their juices.
  4. Create the creamy sauce: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Season with 1 & 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and black pepper to taste. Let simmer gently for 2-4 minutes.
  5. Incorporate cheese and greens: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan and 3-4 ounces chopped spinach. Continue to cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly and the spinach wilts.
  6. Finish the dish: Stir in half a bunch of roughly chopped fresh basil. Return salmon fillets to the pan and heat through if necessary.
  7. Serve: Plate the salmon with creamy Tuscan sauce. Serve alongside pasta, roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, rice, cauliflower rice, or a fresh green salad.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the salmon; it should be tender and moist with a golden crust.
  • Using a high-sided skillet helps prevent splatters and accommodates the sauce well.
  • Feel free to adjust cayenne pepper for milder or spicier heat.
  • Fresh basil added at the end keeps its vibrant flavor and color.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/creamy-tuscan-salmon-recipe/