Introduction
This one-pan Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon with Spinach is the perfect dinner option for those seeking a luscious and easy-to-make meal. You’ll feel like you’re on a European vacation in your own kitchen! With pan-seared salmon fillets, a creamy garlic white sauce, and the vibrant flavors of spinach and fresh basil, this dish will be a hit with your entire family.
A Taste of Europe in Your Kitchen
Indulge in the flaky and succulent salmon fillets, cooked to perfection and covered in a creamy sun-dried tomato and garlic white sauce. Plate it with cooked spinach, fresh basil, and mashed potatoes for an elegant and satisfying dinner experience. The best part? It’s unbelievably quick and easy! In just minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table, and the cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in the same pan.
Creamy Sauce for Salmon
The secret to enhancing the flavors in this salmon dish lies in a simple yet delectable white sauce. Made with heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and vegetable broth, this velvety smooth sauce adds an extra layer of richness. And the best part? You can make it in the same pan as the salmon, eliminating any additional cleanup.
Tuscan Salmon Ingredients and Substitutions
To create this masterpiece, you’ll need:
- Salmon fillets: Opt for moist fillets without any blemishes. Fresh salmon is highly recommended!
- Seasonings: Each fillet is lightly seasoned with smoked paprika and salt.
- Creamy sauce: The base of this sauce is made with simple ingredients, including heavy cream. However, you can make it dairy-free by using milk or coconut cream. For an extra flavorful twist, try substituting white wine for vegetable broth. Add some Italian seasonings and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.
- Spinach: This vibrant green adds color and an extra dose of nutrients to the dish. If you’re out of spinach, kale makes for an excellent substitute.
- Basil: A finishing touch that elevates the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Salmon
Follow these simple steps for a gourmet dining experience:
- Season and pan sear the salmon: Sprinkle each fillet with a touch of smoked paprika and salt. Heat oil in a pan, then cook the salmon skin-side down until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Flip the fillets and set aside once cooked.
- Make the creamy white sauce: Use the same pan to add sun-dried tomato oil and garlic. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, broth, cream, and salt.
- Add the spinach and assemble: Reduce the heat, add the spinach to the sauce, and let it wilt. Return the salmon to the pan and cook until heated through. Serve each fillet with extra sauce, fresh basil, and enjoy!
Tips for Pan-Searing Salmon
To achieve perfect pan-seared salmon every time:
- Allow the fish to reach room temperature and pat the raw fillets dry with paper towels before adding any seasonings.
- Add the seasonings just before cooking. Waiting too long may draw out moisture from the fish, leading to less juicy and tender results.
- To prevent curling, place the salmon skin-side down in the pan and apply gentle pressure with a spatula. This helps the fish cook evenly.
Perfect Pairings for Tuscan Salmon
Tuscan salmon is delightful on its own or served over a bed of grains or mashed potatoes. Consider these options for a well-rounded dinner:
- Creamy cauliflower mash
- Pasta noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
The versatility of the white sauce in this recipe allows you to use it with other proteins. Try it with different types of fish or even skinless, boneless chicken breasts. For a mouthwatering pasta dish, combine the sauce with pan-seared scallops, baked asparagus, and top it off with parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can keep the salmon with or separate from the sauce. To reheat, warm the salmon with the sauce in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly warmed.
More Sensational Salmon Recipes
Expand your culinary repertoire with these delectable salmon recipes when you’re in the mood for something fresh, savory, and light:
- Salmon Patties with Tartar Sauce
- Smoked Salmon Tacos
- Crab Stuffed Salmon
- Parmesan Herb Crusted Salmon
Give this Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon with Spinach recipe a try and let me know your thoughts. Leave a comment, take a picture, and tag me on Instagram or use #lenaskitchenblog to be featured in my stories. I can’t wait to see what you create!