Creamy Tuscan Salmon is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender salmon fillets with a rich, creamy sauce full of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. The creaminess combined with those bright pops of tomato and the mild flavor of spinach makes every bite feel special without being complicated.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels fancy but comes together quickly. The sauce is so simple to prepare and has this beautiful, velvety texture that coats the salmon perfectly. I always find myself sneaking little tastes of the sauce as it simmers because it tastes even better than it smells!
For serving, I usually pair it with some crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce, or sometimes over a bed of rice or pasta. It’s a great meal when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, and it’s one of those recipes I keep going back to whenever I want a comforting and tasty dinner that feels like a treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets work best with this recipe. If you prefer, you can also use frozen fillets, just thaw them properly. For a lighter option, try skin-on salmon for extra crispiness when pan-seared.
Sun-dried tomatoes: They add a nice tang and sweet depth. If you don’t have oil-packed ones, dry sun-dried tomatoes rehydrated in warm water work well too. You can swap them with halved cherry tomatoes for a fresher taste.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and rich. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less thick and creamy.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach gives color and nutrients. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard, but cook them a little longer until tender. Frozen spinach can work if thawed and drained well.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds umami and depth. Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be good alternatives. Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free swap that offers a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking salmon just right can be tricky, but here are some simple tips:
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- Use a hot skillet with olive oil to cook salmon skinless or skin-on.
- Cook each side for about 4 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon should be golden outside and slightly translucent in the middle.
- Remove salmon from heat just before it’s fully cooked; it will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Avoid stirring the salmon while searing to get a good crust.
Following these steps will give you juicy, tender salmon that melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with the creamy Tuscan sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing salmon and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – gentle on your skillet and great for stirring the sauce without scratching.
- Sharp knife – to chop garlic, onions, and sun-dried tomatoes neatly and safely.
- Measuring cups – for easy and accurate measuring of cream, broth, and cheese.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon for chicken breasts or thighs to enjoy a similar creamy Tuscan flavor with different protein.
- Add mushrooms to the sauce for extra earthiness and texture.
- Use kale instead of spinach if you want a heartier green that holds up well in creamy sauces.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little spicy kick that balances the richness.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes total. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but rich and tasty enough to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Salmon:
Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon to the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for about a minute to release their flavors.
3. Finish the Dish:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the fresh spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens a bit, about 3 to 5 minutes. Then, carefully place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet and spoon some sauce over them. Let everything cook together for 2 more minutes, warming the salmon and blending the flavors. Garnish with thinly sliced fresh basil and serve immediately, with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to enjoy the creamy sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat the fillets dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. If using coconut milk, expect a slightly different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth.
What Sides Pair Well with Creamy Tuscan Salmon?
This salmon is delicious served with crusty bread, fluffy rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad also make great accompaniments.
