Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon

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Salmon is one of the most popular and versatile proteins, and when combined with a creamy garlic butter Tuscan sauce, it transforms into an elegant and restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Bursting with bold flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan, this dish is rich, creamy, and perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight treat. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your salmon game, this is the recipe for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: The luxurious garlic butter sauce is packed with depth and flavor.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress guests or treat yourself to a five-star meal without the hefty price tag.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
  2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy.
  3. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for another minute.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well.
  4. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
  5. Stir in red pepper flakes, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 4: Return the Salmon to the Pan

  1. Place the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet.
  2. Spoon the creamy sauce over the salmon and let everything simmer for another 2 minutes.
  3. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish for a bright and fresh finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
  2. Pair with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon

  • Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
  • Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep an eye on the fillets to ensure they remain moist and tender.
  • Add More Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus make great additions to the sauce.
  • Balance the Flavors: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more lemon juice for acidity or extra Parmesan for richness.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture of the salmon.
  • Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce, but the salmon itself can be frozen before adding to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon is a dish that combines richness, freshness, and bold flavors into a single meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a simple weeknight dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe today and bring restaurant-quality dining to your home!

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