Print

Quick Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon

quick creamy garlic butter tuscan salmon - featured image

A fast and flavorful salmon recipe featuring a creamy garlic butter Tuscan sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz / 170 g each), skin-on or skinless, fresh or thawed
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, packed in oil and drained
  • 2 cups baby spinach, packed, fresh and washed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml), can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Melt until bubbly but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (or presentation side down if skinless) in the pan. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until edges turn opaque and bottom is golden brown.
  4. Flip the salmon carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through but still moist. Remove salmon and set aside on a warm plate.
  5. Lower heat to medium and add remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the pan. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  6. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for about 1 minute.
  7. Add fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes.
  9. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon.
  10. Return salmon to the pan and spoon sauce over fillets. Heat together for 1 minute.
  11. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure a crisp sear. Pat salmon dry before seasoning. Use room temperature salmon if possible. Avoid burning garlic by adding it after salmon cooks and keeping heat moderate. Simmer sauce gently to prevent separation. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, creamy garlic butter, Tuscan salmon, quick dinner, weeknight meal, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, easy recipe