Velvety Tuscan Salmon

Prepare to be enchanted by the exquisite flavors of this Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe, a culinary masterpiece that brings the vibrant tastes of Italy right to your dinner table. This exceptional dish features perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets nestled in a luxuriant, garlic-infused cream sauce, brightly accented by sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. It’s a simple yet sophisticated one-pan meal that promises an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Top down view of a skillet filled with creamy tuscan salmon, garnished with fresh herbs.
A mouthwatering overview of our delicious Creamy Tuscan Salmon, ready to serve.

This recipe offers a fantastic twist on the beloved classic Tuscan chicken, demonstrating how beautifully salmon adapts to the rich, aromatic profile of the creamy sauce. The tender fish effortlessly absorbs the medley of flavors, creating a harmonious blend that is both comforting and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is designed for success, delivering gourmet results with straightforward steps. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance and robust flavor to their dinner rotation.

If you’re constantly seeking inspiring and easy salmon recipes, we highly recommend exploring other favorites like our Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon for a sweet and spicy kick, or our hearty Skillet Salmon with Vegetables for a complete meal packed with nutrients. But for now, let’s dive into the creamy, dreamy world of Tuscan Salmon, a dish that will undoubtedly become a new household favorite.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Creamy Tuscan Salmon Recipe

This isn’t just another salmon dish; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this Creamy Tuscan Salmon will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection:

  • Perfectly Cooked, Succulent Salmon: Each salmon fillet is meticulously pan-seared to perfection, creating a beautiful golden-brown crust while locking in its natural juices. This method ensures every bite is tender, flaky, and bursting with flavor, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce. The crispy edges add an extra layer of texture that truly elevates the dish, making each forkful a delight.
  • An Irresistibly Delicious Cream Sauce: The heart of this recipe is its rich and velvety cream sauce. Infused with fragrant garlic, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, it’s seasoned with a thoughtful blend of herbs and spices that create an incredible depth of flavor you won’t be able to resist. The generous addition of Parmesan cheese melts into a luxurious consistency, making this sauce utterly addictive and the perfect complement to the delicate flavor of the salmon.
  • Effortless One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to mountains of dirty dishes! This Creamy Tuscan Salmon is cleverly designed as a convenient one-pan meal. From searing the salmon to simmering the sauce, every step is expertly performed in a single skillet. This not only simplifies the cooking process dramatically but also drastically cuts down on cleanup time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade, gourmet-quality meal without the fuss.
  • From Pantry to Plate in Just 30 Minutes: We understand that time is often a luxury, and this recipe respects that. With minimal prep work and quick cooking times, you can have a truly gourmet-quality meal on the table in under half an hour. It’s significantly faster than ordering takeout and infinitely more satisfying, proving that incredible flavor and sophisticated dishes don’t have to take all evening to prepare.
  • Versatile and Customizable for Every Palate: While the core recipe is an absolute showstopper, it’s also wonderfully adaptable to your personal taste. You can easily adjust the spice level with additional chili flakes, swap in other tender vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, or even experiment with different Italian herbs to tailor it to your preferences. It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes, from simple pasta to fluffy rice or roasted vegetables, allowing for endless meal combinations and ensuring it never gets boring.
  • Gourmet Appeal with Minimal Effort: Despite its quick preparation and relatively simple ingredients, this Creamy Tuscan Salmon looks and tastes like something straight out of a fine dining restaurant. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes and spinach, combined with the golden salmon and rich sauce, create an impressive visual and aromatic presentation. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress guests, yet remains incredibly easy for any home cook to master with confidence.

Essential Ingredients for Your Tuscan Salmon Masterpiece

Creating this flavorful and satisfying dish requires a handful of fresh and pantry-staple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the irresistible taste profile of our Creamy Tuscan Salmon. Opting for quality ingredients will elevate your dish to new heights:

  • Fresh Salmon Fillets: The star of our dish! Choose high-quality, fresh salmon fillets, ideally center-cut pieces weighing about 6-8 ounces each. These tend to cook more evenly and retain moisture better. You can use skin-on or skin-off salmon; the skin, when crisped, adds a delightful texture and helps protect the delicate flesh during searing.
  • Key Seasonings: A simple yet powerful blend of salt, freshly ground black pepper, paprika, and optional chili flakes will not only enhance the natural taste of the salmon but also infuse the sauce with warmth, a touch of smokiness, and a subtle kick if you desire.
  • Olive Oil: A foundational ingredient. Extra virgin olive oil is essential for achieving a beautiful golden-brown pan-sear on the salmon and for sautéing the aromatics. It provides a rich, fruity base flavor that is characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Heavy Cream: The secret to the sauce’s incredibly luxurious, velvety texture and rich consistency. Full-fat heavy cream is highly recommended for the most decadent results, though you can use half-and-half for a slightly lighter version, keeping in mind it may not thicken as much.
  • Vegetable Broth: This liquid gold adds essential depth and savory notes to the sauce without overpowering the other ingredients. We recommend using a low-sodium vegetable broth to better control the overall saltiness of your dish. In a pinch, water can be substituted, but broth will impart a richer flavor.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is indispensable for an authentic Tuscan flavor. It melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a salty, umami-rich creaminess that perfectly complements the other components. Avoid pre-shredded varieties for the best melt and flavor.
  • Fresh Vegetables for Flavor and Color:
    • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed, julienned sun-dried tomatoes. They offer a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor, adding a signature Mediterranean richness and a lovely chewiness to the sauce. Drain them well before adding.
    • Fresh Spinach: A generous handful (or two!) of fresh baby spinach leaves wilts down beautifully into the creamy sauce, adding a lovely vibrant green hue, a touch of earthy flavor, and a healthy boost of vitamins.
    • Onion: Finely diced yellow or white onion forms the essential aromatic base of the sauce, providing a foundational sweetness and savory depth. If you’re not an onion fan or prefer a smoother sauce, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of onion powder, added along with the other dry spices.
  • Dried Oregano: This classic Italian herb is a must-have, providing a warm, earthy, and slightly peppery aroma that masterfully ties all the Tuscan flavors together and adds an authentic touch.
  • Fresh Garlic: Abundant minced fresh garlic is truly indispensable for this recipe. It infuses the entire dish with its pungent, savory fragrance, a hallmark of comforting and robust Mediterranean cooking. Don’t be shy with the garlic!
Top down view of all the fresh ingredients laid out for making creamy tuscan salmon.
All the vibrant, fresh ingredients you’ll need to create this amazing Creamy Tuscan Salmon.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Creamy Tuscan Salmon Masterpiece

Creating this exquisite Creamy Tuscan Salmon is simpler than you might imagine, and it all comes together in one pan! Follow these detailed steps to achieve a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen:

  1. Prepare and Pan-Sear the Salmon

    Begin by gently patting your salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve that desirable crispy skin and prevents steaming. Season each fillet generously on all sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets, skin-side down (if applicable), into the skillet. Pan-sear for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is golden-brown and cooked through to your desired doneness. Avoid moving the salmon too much during searing to allow a beautiful crust to form. Once seared, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, loosely covered with foil to keep warm.

    • Pan searing the salmon in a pan to achieve a golden crust.
      Achieving the perfect golden sear on the salmon fillets.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics

    Using the same skillet where you seared the salmon (no need to clean it – those browned bits add incredible flavor!), reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens, becomes translucent, and releases its sweet, fragrant aroma. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be very careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce.

    • Top down view of sautéed onion in a skillet.
      Onions sautéing to a tender, translucent perfection.
    • Top down view of sautéed onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes mingling in the pan.
      Garlic and sun-dried tomatoes join the onions, building layers of flavor.
    • Garlic and dried oregano being added to the skillet.
      Dried oregano adds its signature Tuscan aroma to the fragrant mixture.
    • Vegetable broth being poured into the skillet with aromatics.
      The savory vegetable broth is added, deglazing the pan and enhancing the flavors.
    • The mixture of garlic, herbs, and broth simmering gently in the pot.
      A gentle simmer helps the sun-dried tomatoes soften and their flavors meld.
  3. Craft the Creamy Tuscan Sauce

    Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, along with the remaining salt and pepper, the dried oregano, and chili flakes (if you are using them). Sauté this mixture for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld and bloom. Next, pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes; this helps soften the sun-dried tomatoes further and slightly reduces the liquid, concentrating the flavors. Then, pour in the heavy cream. Continue to simmer the sauce gently for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing it to thicken to a luxurious, spoon-coating consistency. The aroma at this stage will be absolutely incredible!

    • Fresh spinach wilting into the rich cream sauce.
      Fresh spinach is added, wilting beautifully into the creamy sauce.
    • More spinach being added to the creamy sauce in the skillet.
      As the spinach wilts, it adds a vibrant color and fresh taste.
    • Creamy sauce with spinach and Parmesan cheese stirred in.
      Parmesan cheese is stirred into the sauce, making it even richer and more luxurious.
  4. Combine and Finish the Dish

    Once the sauce has reached your desired thickness, add a generous handful of fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir it in gently and cook on medium-low heat for just a couple more minutes until the spinach is fully wilted and vibrant. Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully incorporated and has melted smoothly into the sauce, further enriching its texture and savory flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Finally, carefully return the pan-seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently into the creamy Tuscan sauce. Spoon some of the luscious sauce over the salmon to coat it. Cover the skillet and let it cook on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes. This allows the salmon to gently absorb the sauce’s complex flavors and ensures it’s thoroughly heated through without overcooking.

    • Overhead shot of salmon fillets perfectly nestled in the creamy Tuscan sauce.
      The salmon fillets return to the pan, enveloped in the irresistible creamy sauce.
  5. Garnish and Serve Immediately

    Remove the skillet from the heat. Before serving, elevate your Creamy Tuscan Salmon with a final touch. Garnish generously with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or oregano leaves for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness. For an extra touch of indulgence and visual appeal, a few shavings of extra Parmesan cheese can also add a beautiful finishing touch, gently melting into the warm, inviting sauce. Serve immediately and prepare for a chorus of rave reviews!

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Creamy Tuscan Salmon

Achieving a truly outstanding Creamy Tuscan Salmon is easy with these insider tips and suggestions that will guide you to culinary perfection:

  • Always Pat Your Salmon Dry: This is a non-negotiable step! Before you even think about placing salmon in the hot pan, ensure each fillet is thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the surface will cause the fish to steam rather than sear, preventing that coveted crispy skin and delicious caramelized crust. A dry surface allows for superior browning and a more flavorful exterior.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan & Handle with Care: When pan-searing salmon, it’s crucial to give each fillet ample space in the skillet. Crowding the pan can significantly lower the temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing, and results in soggy salmon. Also, once the salmon is in the hot pan, resist the urge to move it frequently. Allow it to cook undisturbed for the recommended time to form a beautiful, even crust. Gentle handling will prevent the tender fish from breaking apart.
  • Slow and Low for Flavorful Aromatics: The foundation of a truly great sauce lies in its aromatics. Sautéing your diced onions and minced garlic over medium-low heat allows their natural sugars to caramelize slightly and their complex flavors to fully develop without burning. This “low and slow” approach prevents any bitterness and builds a significantly richer, deeper taste base for your creamy sauce.
  • Skin On or Off? Your Choice: Salmon can be cooked beautifully with the skin on or off, depending on your preference. When cooked crispy, the skin side adds a delightful textural contrast and can be quite delicious. Moreover, the skin acts as a protective layer, helping the delicate fillet maintain its moisture and shape during the intense heat of searing. If you prefer to remove it, you’ll often find it’s easier to do so after the salmon is cooked, as it will peel away effortlessly.
  • Monitor Internal Temperature for Optimal Doneness: The absolute key to perfectly cooked, flaky salmon is avoiding overcooking, which can quickly dry it out. While visual cues are helpful, for precise and consistently juicy results, use an instant-read thermometer. The USDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet to get an accurate reading.
  • Onion Alternatives for Preference: If fresh onions aren’t your preference, or if you’re simply short on time and want to streamline prep, you can easily substitute them. Instead of diced onion, use 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Add the onion powder along with the other dry spices (salt, pepper, paprika, oregano) to the skillet, ensuring it’s cooked briefly to bloom its flavor before adding liquids.
  • Elevate with Thoughtful Garnishes: A simple, fresh garnish can make a world of difference in both the presentation and the overall flavor profile of your dish. Before serving, sprinkle your Creamy Tuscan Salmon generously with fresh chopped parsley or oregano leaves for a vibrant pop of color and herbaceous freshness. For an extra touch of indulgence, shave some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top; the residual heat from the dish will gently melt it into savory perfection.
  • Choosing the Right Skillet: For the best results with this one-pan recipe, a good quality, heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan is ideal. These types of pans distribute heat evenly, which is crucial for achieving a consistent sear on the salmon and for preventing the delicate fish from sticking, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.
  • Quality Ingredients Matter Most: While the recipe is straightforward, the quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final dish. Fresh, responsibly sourced salmon, a good quality extra virgin olive oil, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not the pre-shredded kind) will make a noticeable difference in the depth and richness of flavor, transforming a good meal into an extraordinary one.
  • Overhead shot of creamy tuscan salmon in a skillet, ready to be served.
    The final, irresistible presentation of our Easy Creamy Tuscan Salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuscan Salmon

Here are answers to some common questions about this delectable Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe, ensuring your culinary journey is smooth, successful, and stress-free:

What to Serve with Creamy Tuscan Salmon?

This versatile and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a wide array of sides, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal. The rich and creamy sauce is so delicious that it practically begs for something to soak it up!

  • Pasta: A classic pairing. Tossed with a simple olive oil and garlic sauce, or even just buttered, pasta provides the perfect vehicle for the creamy Tuscan sauce. Angel hair, fettuccine, penne, or even orzo would be excellent choices to complement the dish.
  • Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice, wholesome brown rice, or even a creamy risotto offers a comforting accompaniment that gently soaks up the sauce without overpowering the delicate salmon flavors.
  • Quinoa: For a lighter, protein-packed, and naturally gluten-free option, quinoa is an excellent choice. Its slightly nutty flavor and satisfying texture harmonize wonderfully with the Tuscan elements of the dish.
  • Lentils: Cooked lentils can add an earthy, wholesome, and fiber-rich component to your meal, creating a balanced and nutritious plate that is both hearty and healthy.
  • Roasted or Sautéed Vegetables:
    • Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Earthy, savory mushrooms sautéed in fragrant garlic butter would be a divine pairing, enhancing the umami notes of the sauce.
    • Asparagus: Lightly steamed or roasted asparagus spears offer a crisp, fresh contrast to the richness of the cream sauce.
    • Broccoli: Steamed or roasted broccoli florets add a touch of vibrant green, a healthy boost, and a pleasant crunch.
    • Green Beans: Sautéed with a little garlic and olive oil, fresh green beans are a simple yet elegant side that complements almost any meal.
  • Potatoes: Potatoes are always a comforting choice that works well with creamy sauces.
    • Oven Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these are a classic and satisfying choice that will absorb the sauce beautifully.
    • Parmesan Herbed Potatoes: Elevate your potato side dish with aromatic herbs and savory Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
    • Easy Mashed Sweet Potatoes: For a touch of sweetness and creamy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the savory salmon, mashed sweet potatoes can be a surprisingly complementary and delicious option.
    • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A timeless choice that will lovingly soak up every drop of that incredible Tuscan sauce.
  • Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a warm, crusty baguette, ciabatta, or focaccia for dipping into the luscious sauce – it’s an absolute must for many!
  • Simple Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a bright vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the creamy dish, offering a refreshing and palate-cleansing balance to your meal.

How to Achieve the Perfect Pan-Seared Salmon

Pan-searing salmon is an art, but it’s easily mastered with a few key techniques. The goal is a beautifully crisp skin (if skin-on) and a tender, flaky interior that remains moist and flavorful. Here’s a detailed guide to achieve salmon perfection:

  • Preparation is Paramount: Always start with thoroughly dry salmon fillets. Use paper towels to blot away any moisture from the surface of the fish. This is critical because excess moisture creates steam, which prevents the salmon from browning and developing that desirable crispy crust.
  • Achieve the Right Pan Temperature: Heat your skillet (preferably a well-seasoned cast iron or a heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan) over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add your olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers and looks slightly wavy, but crucially, do not let it smoke. A properly hot pan prevents the fish from sticking and ensures a quick, even sear.
  • Skin-Side Down First (If Applicable): If your salmon fillets have skin, always place them skin-side down in the hot oil first. The skin acts as a protective barrier, rendering out fat and becoming incredibly crispy while shielding the delicate flesh from overcooking. Press down gently on the fillets with a spatula for the first 10-15 seconds to ensure even contact with the pan.
  • Observe the “Sweet Spot” for Flipping: As the salmon cooks, you’ll notice a distinct color change along the sides of the fillet. It will slowly turn from translucent pink to opaque. This opaque band will gradually move upwards from the bottom of the fillet towards the center. This visual cue is your guide.
  • The Perfect Moment to Flip: Once the opaque color has moved roughly halfway to two-thirds of the way up the side of the fillet, it’s the ideal time to flip! This ensures that the first side gets a superb, crispy sear and the second side finishes cooking the rest of the way, resulting in perfectly tender, moist fish without overdoing the first side.
  • Finish Cooking to Perfection: After flipping, cook the salmon for another 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should flake easily with a fork but still appear moist and succulent inside.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Tuscan Salmon

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers of this delicious Creamy Tuscan Salmon, proper storage is essential to maintain its quality, safety, and delicious flavor.

  • Storage: Any leftover salmon should be transferred to an airtight container as soon as it has cooled to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking). Refrigerate promptly and consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture. Beyond that, the quality of both the salmon and the cream sauce may significantly decline.
  • Reheating: Reheat salmon gently to prevent it from drying out and becoming rubbery. The best method is to warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a small splash of vegetable broth or a little extra cream to help loosen the sauce and add moisture. Cover the skillet to help steam the salmon gently and ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on a low power setting, reheating in short, 30-second bursts until just warmed through. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s safely reheated.
Top down view of creamy salmon in a silver pot, garnished and ready.
The rich, creamy texture of the Tuscan sauce enveloping the tender salmon.

Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can use frozen salmon for this Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe! Just ensure you thaw it completely before proceeding with the cooking steps. The best way to thaw frozen salmon is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator 12-24 hours before you plan to cook it. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it more quickly by placing the vacuum-sealed salmon (still in its original packaging) in a bowl of cold water for 1-2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes. Once thawed, it is crucial to pat it very dry with paper towels before seasoning and searing, as described in the recipe, to ensure you get that beautiful, crispy crust.

Is Creamy Tuscan Salmon a Healthy Meal Option?

This Creamy Tuscan Salmon dish offers a wonderful balance of delicious flavors and beneficial nutrients, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Salmon itself is an excellent source of lean protein and is packed with heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain health and reducing inflammation. Fresh spinach adds a wealth of vitamins (like Vitamin K and Vitamin A) and minerals, while sun-dried tomatoes contribute antioxidants. While heavy cream and Parmesan cheese contribute to the richness and calorie count, portions can be adjusted to fit dietary needs. Choosing low-sodium vegetable broth can also help manage sodium intake. Overall, when enjoyed in moderation and paired with a side of extra vegetables or a light salad, it’s a delicious and wholesome way to incorporate healthy fish into your diet.

Explore More Delicious Seafood Recipes

If you’re a fan of seafood and thoroughly enjoyed preparing and savoring this Creamy Tuscan Salmon, then you’re in for a treat! We have a vibrant collection of other tantalizing seafood recipes that we think you might love to try, each bringing unique flavors and culinary experiences to your kitchen:

  • Caribbean Jerk Fish Bowl: Dive into a bowl of vibrant, spicy, and wholesome flavors, packed with tender jerk-seasoned fish and fresh, tropical ingredients. It’s a taste of the islands in every bite!
  • Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops: Indulge in quick-cooking, perfectly seared scallops bathed in a bright, zesty, and utterly savory lemon-garlic butter sauce. An elegant dish that comes together in minutes.
  • Tuna Ceviche: Experience the refreshing zest of this no-cook dish, featuring fresh tuna marinated in a vibrant mix of citrus, herbs, and spices. It’s perfect for warm weather or as a light appetizer.
  • Spicy Teriyaki Chicken with Broccoli: While not seafood, this highly popular and flavorful quick meal is a testament to quick, delicious cooking, featuring tender chicken in a spicy teriyaki glaze with crisp broccoli.

We genuinely hope you enjoy creating and savoring this incredible Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe. It’s a dish meticulously designed to bring immense joy, gourmet flavor, and effortless elegance to your everyday meals. We wholeheartedly encourage you to try it, experience its deliciousness first-hand, and share your valuable thoughts and ratings with us – your feedback inspires us!

If you do try this recipe and love it as much as we do, please share your beautiful culinary creations with me on INSTAGRAM using my hashtag for a fantastic chance to be featured in my stories! Also, stay intimately connected and up-to-date with Cookin’ With Mima by following me on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST for all my latest recipes, expert cooking tips, and engaging social updates. Happy cooking!

Top down view creamy tuscan salmon.
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Creamy Tuscan Salmon

By:
Mariam Ezzeddine

This Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe features perfectly pan-fried salmon fillets, covered in a rich and creamy sauce that’s loaded with flavor.

Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1.5 cups vegetable broth (low sodium, or water)
  • 1 small onion, diced (or 1 tsp. onion powder)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, julienned)
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp. salt (or more to taste)
  • 3/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 handful fresh spinach
  • 4-6 cloves fresh garlic, minced (adjust to preference)
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • Chili flakes (optional)

Salmon

  • 4 (approx. 8 oz.) salmon fillets (center cut if available)
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. paprika
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon dry with paper towel.
  2. Bring a large non-stick skillet to medium-high heat. Add in 2 tbsps. of olive oil and pan sear the salmon on each side for about 5 minutes. Do not move around a lot so you don’t break up the tender salmon. Remove and set aside. Cover with foil wrap.
  3. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp. of olive oil and sauté the diced onions until tender. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add in the sundried tomatoes, salt and spices. Mix and sauté the mixture for about 1 minute.
  5. Add in the vegetable broth or water. Simmer for a couple of minutes to soften up the sundried tomatoes.
  6. Add in the heavy cream and simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
  7. Throw in a handful of spinach and cook on medium-low heat for a couple more minutes. Add in the parmesan cheese and mix well. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to thicken up the sauce. Taste to adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Add the salmon pieces back into the sauce pan and drench with the sauce mixture. Cover and let them cook together on low heat for 2-3 more minutes.
  9. Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley or oregano leaves or even some shaved parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Be sure to pat the salmon dry before pan searing.
  • When pan searing, do not move the salmon around a lot so you don’t break it up.
  • Cook your aromatics low and slow. You want to release the flavors of the onions and garlic without burning them.
  • You can cook the salmon with skin on or off. The skin does provide some protection for the salmon when it cooks, you can remove it easily once it’s cooked.
  • Keep an eye on the salmon as it cooks. The USDA recommends salmon be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 F degrees.
  • You can remove the onions if you don’t like onions but use 1 tsp. of onion powder instead.
  • Garnish the Tuscan Salmon with some fresh chopped parsley or oregano leaves or even some shaved parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 416 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 16g |
Protein: 9g |
Fat: 37g |
Saturated Fat: 17g |
Cholesterol: 91mg |
Sodium: 1096mg |
Potassium: 649mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 7g |
Vitamin A: 2308 IU |
Vitamin C: 10mg |
Calcium: 245mg |
Iron: 2mg

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