This Easy Tuscan Garlic Salmon is a one-pan wonder! Juicy salmon fillets cook with fresh spinach and bursty tomatoes, all in a creamy garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible.
You’ll love how fast it comes together, making it perfect for busy nights. I always feel like a chef when I whip this up, and my kitchen smells amazing afterward!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Salmon is the star here! I prefer using fresh fillets, but you can also use frozen. Just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with cod or chicken breast.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a pop of sweetness! If you can’t find them, feel free to use diced regular tomatoes. Sun-dried tomatoes are another great option, giving a more intense flavor. I usually go with cherry because they keep their shape well.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can swap it for half-and-half or coconut milk. Just note that the flavor will change a bit. I’ve tried using Greek yogurt for added tang in a pinch; it works too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in this dish. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach can be a great alternative, just make sure to thaw and drain it well. I often throw in some kale or other leafy greens for variety!
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Getting the salmon just right is crucial. Start by ensuring your skillet is hot before adding the oil. Here’s a simple guide for perfectly cooked salmon:
- Heat your olive oil on medium-high until it’s shimmering.
- Season the salmon well. This helps in flavor and crust formation.
- Place fillets skin-side down first (if skin is on), cooking for about 4-5 minutes. Don’t move them around; let them sear!
- Flip gently and cook on the other side for about 4 minutes or until it’s just cooked through.
- Remove from skillet and let it rest for a minute—this keeps it juicy!
Following these steps will make cooking salmon at home a breeze!
Easy Tuscan Garlic Salmon with Spinach and Tomato
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish comes together in about 25 minutes! It takes about 5 minutes to prep your ingredients and then 20 minutes to cook everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning your salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step adds so much flavor!
2. Cook the Salmon:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Their sweetness will really shine at this stage!
5. Add Spinach:
Next, add your fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted down. It doesn’t take long—just a couple of minutes!
6. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning over the mixture. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted, and the sauce thickens slightly—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish with Lemon Juice:
Don’t forget to squeeze in the lemon juice! Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it.
8. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Return the cooked salmon fillets back to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece. Let everything simmer together for another 1-2 minutes to meld those fantastic flavors.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your dish with some fresh parsley if you like, then serve right away. Enjoy your creamy, garlicky Tuacan salmon with all those lovely veggies!
FAQs for Easy Tuscan Garlic Salmon with Spinach and Tomato
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk. For a tangy twist, Greek yogurt can work too, but add it at the end to prevent curdling.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Spinach?
No problem! You can use frozen spinach instead. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it a few hours ahead and reheat it gently on the stove. Just add a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
