This Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon is a treat for your taste buds! It’s packed with tender salmon, tasty garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce.
Cooking this dish is a breeze and makes you feel like a gourmet chef. I love serving it over pasta or rice, and it always impresses my guests—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets create a delicate flavor. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, try using tilapia or cod instead. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as these fish may cook faster!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor! If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, fresh cherry tomatoes can work. Just roast them first to intensify the taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but note that the texture and richness will change. Dairy-free? Use coconut cream instead.
Parmesan Cheese: I love the sharp flavor of Parmesan here! If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, nutritional yeast is a great substitute to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Salmon Texture?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky. The key is to start with high heat and get a nice sear on one side, adding flavor and locking the juices in. Follow these steps:
- Heat the skillet until it’s hot before adding the salmon to prevent sticking.
- Let the salmon cook undisturbed for the first few minutes—resist the urge to flip it too soon!
- Check doneness using a fork. It should flake easily when it’s cooked through but remain moist inside.
By keeping an eye on the cooking time and watching for the right color, you’ll serve perfectly cooked salmon every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 3 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
- Optional: asparagus spears or other vegetables
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In just around 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and creamy dish ready to impress your family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the salmon.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down if they have skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they are just cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic, stirring for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth while stirring. Add the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help everything combine beautifully.
5. Add the Spinach:
Throw in the fresh baby spinach and cook until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The spinach will add a nice pop of color and nutrients!
6. Finish the Sauce:
Now it’s time to mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly. This will give it that creamy consistency we love!
7. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Add the lemon juice for a touch of brightness. Then, gently return the salmon fillets to the pan, spooning some of the sauce over them. Allow everything to heat together for about 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Now for the finishing touches! Garnish your dish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. If you’re feeling fancy, serve it alongside sautéed asparagus or your favorite side like pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
9. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before seasoning for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half can be a good substitute. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream works well, but it may change the flavor slightly. You could also use Greek yogurt, mixing it in just before serving to keep it creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you enjoy. Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini would work beautifully here. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream so they cook through.