This creamy Tuscan salmon recipe is a one-pan wonder that delivers rich, decadent flavors with minimal effort. Pan-seared salmon fillets are bathed in a luxurious creamy garlic sauce, packed with cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmigiano Reggiano, making it a restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a delicious dinner that feels like a special occasion but is easy enough for a busy weeknight!
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
4 salmon fillets, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sear the Salmon
Heat 4 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 3 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Chop cherry tomatoes and onions.
1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, ½ white onion
Remove the excess oil and leave 1 tablespoon of oil. Reduce heat to low heat and add the 2 tbsps of butter.
2 tablespoon butter
Sauté the chopped white onion for 2 minutes, until fragrant. Add in the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4 garlic cloves
Turn the heat to medium. Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to de-glaze. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
½ cup dry white wine
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the Creamy Elements
Pour in the heavy cream, vegetable broth or water, and vegetable bouillon if using water. Stir well.
1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup water or vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon vegetable bouillon
Add the paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
¼ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Turn the heat to low. Gradually add grated Parmigiano Reggiano, stirring continuously to melt into the sauce.
¾ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
Finish the Dish
Add baby spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
3 cups baby spinach
Return the pan-seared salmon to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the fish.
Simmer on low heat for 2 minutes, ensuring the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Serve and Garnish
Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve over pasta, rice, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.