Pan-seared salmon fillets in creamy Tuscan garlic sauce with cherry tomatoes and spinach in a cast iron skillet

Creamy Tuscan Salmon

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Created on November 13th, 2025 at 04:55 pm

Rich, flavorful Italian seafood

Creamy Tuscan Salmon is a delightful combination of tender salmon fillets and a luscious sauce that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. The pairing of fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic creates a vibrant palette of colors and flavors. With its inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, this dish brings a sense of warmth and comfort. The creamy sauce is not only rich but also perfectly complements the fish’s natural flavors. Whether served on a weeknight or at a special gathering, creamy Tuscan salmon shines as a centerpiece that will impress anyone at the table.

Seared salmon fillets in creamy garlic sauce with cherry tomatoes and spinach, served in a cast iron skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of simplicity and bold flavors. The salmon fillets cook to a tender flakiness, melding beautifully with the creamy sauce. The sun-dried tomatoes add bursts of sweet tang, while the fresh spinach contributes a delightful earthy note. Each bite is a balance of textures, from the smooth sauce to the buttery fish. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks looking for something both elegant and satisfying. As an added bonus, the flavors deepen and improve the next day, making leftovers even more enjoyable.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients List

  • 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Kitchen Tools

This recipe keeps cooking straightforward with just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make preparation easier and more enjoyable, ensuring that the process is stress-free.

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. This step enhances the salmon’s natural flavors, ensuring a tasty, well-seasoned dish.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the fillets in the skillet, skin side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about halfway through. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
  3. To the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This will fill the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Once the cream begins to simmer, add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
  5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until just wilted, giving the sauce a beautiful color and depth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Allow to cook for another minute to warm through before serving.

Pro Tips

  • For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the salmon in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use fresh spinach for the best texture; frozen spinach might release too much moisture.
  • Feel free to substitute with other vegetables, such as asparagus or kale, depending on your preference.
  • If you enjoy a hint of spice, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Italian Comfort, Simple to Prepare

Creamy Tuscan Salmon showcases how comforting and elegant home cooking can be. The combination of tender salmon and a delightful cream sauce embodies the warmth of Italian cuisine. Each forkful offers a symphony of flavors — savory, creamy, and just the right amount of zest. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed solo, this dish proves that gourmet comfort can be simple and satisfying.

Nutrition Table

NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories530 kcal
Protein38 g
Fat38 g
Carbohydrates7 g
Fiber1 g
Sugar2 g
Sodium350 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Pan-seared salmon fillets in creamy Tuscan garlic sauce with cherry tomatoes and spinach in a cast iron skillet

Creamy Tuscan Salmon

Isabella C., a passionate food writer and recipe creator, smiling in a cozy kitchen while sharing her love for homemade dishes.Isabella C.
A delightful combination of tender salmon fillets and a luscious sauce that captures the essence of Italian cuisine, featuring fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 530 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 pieces salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless 6 oz each
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the fillets in the skillet, skin side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked halfway through.
  • Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
  • To the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Once the cream begins to simmer, add in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
  • Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until just wilted. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them.
  • Allow to cook for another minute to warm through before serving.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the salmon in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. Use fresh spinach for the best texture; frozen spinach might release too much moisture. This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Keyword Creamy Salmon, Italian Cuisine, Quick Dinner, Seafood Dish, Tuscan Recipe

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