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Creamy Tuscan Salmon with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Parmesan Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Tuscan Salmon recipe features perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets served in a rich and flavorful creamy Parmesan sauce with garlic, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and fresh basil. Quick and easy to prepare, this restaurant-quality meal is perfect for a satisfying summer dinner, ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Salmon

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

Tuscan Cream 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. Prepare the Salmon: Heat a 12-inch high-sided skillet over medium-high heat for a couple of minutes to get it very hot. Meanwhile, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the top of each fillet with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the hot pan and swirl to coat; the oil should shimmer immediately. Place each salmon fillet into the pan, skin side down if skin is on, ensuring they are spaced apart. Sprinkle the other side with salt and pepper. Sear the salmon for 1-3 minutes depending on thickness until you have a nice brown crust. Flip the fillets and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute before turning off the heat to avoid overcooking.
  3. Keep Salmon Warm: Remove the seared salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate to keep warm.
  4. Make the Tuscan Sauce: Over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons butter to the oil remaining in the pan. When melted, add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped and whole cherry tomatoes to the pan, cooking for about 1 minute until some tomatoes start to split and soften.
  6. Add Cream and Seasonings: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture come to a light simmer, about 2 to 4 minutes.
  7. Incorporate Cheese and Greens: Stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and add the chopped spinach. Continue cooking over medium heat until the cream thickens and the spinach wilts.
  8. Finish the Sauce and Salmon: Add roughly chopped fresh basil. Return the salmon fillets to the pan and heat through gently if necessary.
  9. Serve: Serve the creamy Tuscan salmon alone or alongside pasta, roasted or mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower rice. A green salad pairs well as a fresh side.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be slightly pink in the center for best texture and flavor.
  • If salmon has skin, sear skin-side down first for a crisp finish.
  • You can adjust cayenne pepper according to your spice preference or omit for milder flavor.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like pasta or cauliflower rice for low-carb options.
  • Use fresh basil for a more vibrant flavor; dried basil adds nice earthiness but fresh is preferable.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://myeasyplate.com/creamy-tuscan-salmon-with-cherry-tomatoes-spinach-and-parmesan-recipe/