If you’re searching for a flavorful, impressive, yet easy salmon dinner, look no further than this Tuscan salmon recipe. The Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon combines tender, flaky salmon fillets with a luscious garlic butter sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, all simmered in a rich and creamy sauce. This dish bursts with Mediterranean flavors inspired by the Tuscan region of Italy, offering a delicious twist that will quickly become a weeknight favorite.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or feeding the whole family, this creamy salmon recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste without the fuss. Plus, it comes together in just about 25 minutes and requires minimal prep work, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for an easy salmon dinner that feels indulgent yet wholesome. If you enjoy the iconic Tuscan chicken alternative, this salmon version elevates the dish with the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky, and savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin on or off, as preferred
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets skin-side down if skin-on, and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them to develop a crisp crust. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until salmon is cooked through but still moist inside. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and shallots. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, but not browned.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and spinach: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese and oregano. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon sauce over the top and cook an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the salmon and meld flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Pat salmon dry: Ensuring the salmon fillets are dry before cooking helps achieve a perfect sear and prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly—watch closely to keep it moist and tender.
- Use quality sun-dried tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add richness and depth, but rehydrate dry-packed ones in warm water first.
- Customize creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less thick.
- Fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley boosts flavor and adds a beautiful finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Recipe Variations
- Tuscan Chicken Alternative: Swap salmon with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a classic creamy Tuscan chicken dish. Adjust cooking times—chicken needs about 7-9 minutes per side.
- Low-Carb Version: Omit sun-dried tomatoes or replace with roasted red peppers. Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Vegan Adaptation: Use firm tofu or tempeh, replace butter with vegan spread, heavy cream with coconut cream, and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for some heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, or tarragon for a different herbaceous twist.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage: Store leftover creamy garlic butter Tuscan salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking the salmon.
Serving ideas: This creamy salmon recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
- Steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, or broccoli
- Crispy crusty bread to mop up the sauce
- Light pasta, such as angel hair or fettuccine, tossed in olive oil or butter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon and pat it dry before cooking for the best sear and texture.
Is this creamy salmon recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely. The high-fat content from butter and cream along with minimal carbs from vegetables make this dish suitable for keto diets.
How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). It should still be moist and tender inside.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
It’s best to prepare the sauce fresh to retain creaminess and flavor. However, you can prep the garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes ahead to save time.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute with Romano or Asiago cheese, or omit entirely though the sauce may be less flavorful.
Conclusion
For a quick yet luxurious meal, this Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon fits the bill perfectly. With only about 25 minutes total cooking time and simple ingredients, this Tuscan salmon recipe offers a gourmet experience that’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels. The combination of garlic butter, creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach makes each bite a delight. Plus, as a Tuscan chicken alternative, it brings a fresh seafood twist to your dinner rotation. Try this recipe for your next easy salmon dinner and enjoy the rich flavors of Tuscany right at home!
“`