This Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon is a tasty dish that combines fresh salmon with a rich, creamy sauce made from garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach. It’s both filling and flavorful!
Trust me, your taste buds will be dancing with joy! I love serving it with pasta or rice to soak up that delicious sauce. It’s a simple way to impress at dinner! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If they’re not available, you can substitute with other fish like trout or even chicken for a different twist.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor. You could swap them out for fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers if you prefer a lighter taste.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness, but if you’re looking for lighter options, fat-free half-and-half or coconut milk can be great substitutes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a savory touch. If you don’t have it, pecorino or nutritional yeast are suitable alternatives for a cheesy flavor.
Spinach: Baby spinach adds color and nutrition. Kale or arugula can work as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon just right is key for a delicious meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with salmon fillets at room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat your skillet and use enough oil to avoid sticking. Medium-high is ideal.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown crust and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Let the fillets rest for a minute after cooking. This helps retain moisture.
With these tips, you’ll serve up perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil, drained)
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine as an alternative)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil, julienned or chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are just cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the salmon, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute, allowing their flavors to meld.
4. Add Liquids:
To deglaze the pan, pour in the chicken broth (or white wine). Scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let this mixture simmer for about one minute to combine the flavors.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Now stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and, if you like a kick, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Add Spinach:
Incorporate the baby spinach leaves into the sauce, stirring until they’re wilted and well combined. This adds a lovely color and nutrition to your dish!
7. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything cook together for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Finish and Serve:
Garnish your dish with fresh basil to add a burst of color and flavor. Serve the creamy garlic Tuscan salmon over pasta, rice, or alongside some crusty bread to enjoy that delicious sauce.
Enjoy your rich and flavorful Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon! Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw the salmon before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use fat-free half-and-half or coconut milk. Both alternatives will change the flavor slightly, but they will still provide a creamy texture to the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute with fresh diced tomatoes or leave them out entirely. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
