
Experience delightful Mediterranean flavors with this Tuscan-inspired salmon dish. Fresh salmon fillets are paired with vibrant spinach and tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce that captures the essence of Italian cooking. This elegant yet approachable recipe transforms an everyday dinner into a restaurant-quality meal.
Key Ingredients
- Salmon (4 fillets, 6 oz each): Choose skin-on fillets with uniform color for best results
- Fresh spinach (1 lb): Baby spinach leaves offer the most delicate flavor
- Cherry tomatoes (8 oz): Select ripe, fragrant ones for optimal sweetness
- Fresh garlic (3 cloves): New-season garlic provides best flavor
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Use full-fat (30%+) for proper sauce consistency
- Parmesan cheese (1 oz): Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano only
- Fresh herbs: Basil and parsley for authentic Italian flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preparation (10 minutes)
- Remove salmon from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking
- Pat fillets dry with paper towels
- Mince garlic, halve tomatoes
- Wash and dry spinach thoroughly
- Finely chop herbs
- Cook Salmon (8-10 minutes)
- Heat olive oil in large non-stick pan
- Season fillets generously
- Cook skin-side up for 6 minutes
- Flip once and cook 2 minutes more
- Set aside loosely covered
- Make Tuscan Sauce (6-8 minutes)
- Melt butter over medium heat
- Sauté garlic until fragrant
- Add tomatoes until slightly softened
- Wilt spinach in batches
- Add cream and Parmesan
- Simmer 3 minutes until thickened

Plating and Presentation
Arrange salmon over a bed of creamy spinach sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges to brighten the rich flavors. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but remain fluid enough to pool elegantly on the plate.
Perfect Pairings
Serve alongside fresh pasta, Roman-style gnocchi, or classic risotto bianco. For a lighter option, accompany with grilled Italian vegetables seasoned with herbs and olive oil.
Storage and Reheating
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream to restore sauce consistency. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain the salmon's texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know if my salmon is done cooking?
- The salmon is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a softer finish, the center can stay slightly translucent.
- → Can I use frozen spinach?
- Yes, but make sure you fully thaw and drain it to keep the sauce from becoming watery.
- → What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
- Let it simmer on low heat for a few extra minutes; this will naturally thicken it. Adding Parmesan also helps bind it better.
- → What side dishes go well with this meal?
- Fresh pasta, rice, or steamed potatoes pair wonderfully with this creamy sauce.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
- You can make the sauce ahead of time, but cook the salmon right before serving to keep it tender and moist.