Tuscan Garlic Salmon is a tasty dish that’s full of flavor. Juicy salmon is cooked with fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, all mixed in a creamy garlic sauce. Yum!
This dish is not just delicious but also pretty healthy! I love making it when I’m looking for something quick and fancy for dinner. Serve it over pasta or rice for a filling meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If you’re looking for a different protein, you can substitute with chicken breast or even a firm white fish like cod.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can swap it for half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is best, but if you have frozen spinach on hand, feel free to use that. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out the excess water before adding it.
Cherry Tomatoes: While cherry tomatoes are sweet and perfect for this dish, any small tomatoes will do. You can also use canned diced tomatoes if you’re in a pinch!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a burst of flavor, but you can skip them if you’re not a fan. Alternatively, diced artichokes or olives could work in their place.
How Do I Get the Salmon Just Right?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it every time:
- Start with a hot skillet to create a nice sear. This helps lock in the moisture.
- For skin-on salmon, always cook skin-side down first. It helps crisp up the skin and flavor the dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Check for doneness: salmon should easily flake with a fork and have an opaque center.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked salmon that’s both tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Tuscan Garlic Salmon with Spinach and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For The Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Then, sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides to season them well.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin side down (if they have skin). Sear them for about 4-5 minutes or until they are golden and the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not burnt.
4. Cook the Tomatoes:
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften and release their juices.
5. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the heavy cream, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes (if using). If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir everything gently and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Combine and Warm:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the pan, spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top, and let it warm together for about a minute.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with the fresh basil or parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Squeeze some lemon juice over the salmon for an extra burst of flavor!
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Tuscan Garlic Salmon with fresh spinach and tomatoes!
FAQs for Tuscan Garlic Salmon with Spinach and Tomatoes
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water before cooking. Pat dry before seasoning to ensure the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For a dairy-free alternative, consider coconut milk or almond milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. Just sauté them along with the garlic for added flavor and color.
