Tuscan Garlic Salmon Skillet Recipes

The Tuscan Garlic Salmon Skillet is a popular and delicious one-pan meal known for its rich, creamy sauce featuring sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 (4-6 ounce) salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• 1 tsp salt

• $1/2$ tsp black pepper

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 Tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• $1/2$ cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped

• $1/2$ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter sauce)

• $1/2$ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 3 cups fresh baby spinach

• $1/4$ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish and flavor)

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels (this helps them get a better sear). Season all sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron works great) over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (or flesh-side down if skinless). Sear for 4–5 minutes until a nice golden-brown crust forms.

3. Flip and Finish Salmon: Flip the salmon and cook for another 2–3 minutes. The salmon will not be fully cooked yet; it will finish in the sauce. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.

4. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the skillet (keeping the salmon drippings for flavor). Once melted, add the minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for about 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

5. Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth (or wine). Bring it to a simmer and let it reduce slightly (about 1–2 minutes), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

6. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

7. Wilt Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the skillet and stir until it just wilts down, which takes about 1 minute.

8. Combine and Serve: Nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the sauce. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the salmon. Simmer on low heat for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (it should easily flake with a fork).

9. Garnish and Enjoy: Stir in the fresh chopped basil or parsley, and serve immediately!

Serving Suggestions

Tuscan Salmon pairs wonderfully with:

• Pasta: Tossed with the creamy sauce.

• Rice: White rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to soak up the sauce.

• Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, green beans, or a simple side salad.