Creamy Tuscan Marry Me Salmon
Crispy pan-seared salmon fillets bathed in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh baby spinach.
In a nutshell: This authentic italian creamy tuscan marry me salmon comes together in just 25 mins using simple whole ingredients. The chef's secret is to Press salmon fillets down gently with a spatula during the first 30 seconds of searing to . Perfect for home cooks seeking a dependable, restaurant-quality finish with minimal effort.
A 20-minute viral gourmet dinner that tastes like it came from an upscale Italian bistro! Fresh salmon fillets are pan-seared until golden and flaky, then simmered in a velvety sauce of heavy cream, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and wilted spinach.
Key Equipment
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- Large 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet
- Fish spatula
- Whisk
Chef's Pro-Tips
- Pro-Tip: Press salmon fillets down gently with a spatula during the first 30 seconds of searing to ensure even golden browning.
- Pro-Tip: Use freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano rather than pre-shredded cheese so the sauce stays silky without graininess.
- Pro-Tip: Drizzle a spoonful of the sun-dried tomato oil from the jar into the pan for extra concentrated flavor.
Ingredients
4
servings
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4 fillets fresh Atlantic salmon, 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless, patted dry
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2 tbsp olive oil, divided
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and julienned
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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½ cup chicken or vegetable bone broth
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½ cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated
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2 ½ cups fresh baby spinach, packed
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¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional for gentle warmth
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¾ tsp kosher salt, to taste
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½ tsp black pepper
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Sear Salmon Fillets
Season salmon fillets on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon flesh-side down and sear for 4 minutes until golden crust forms. Flip and cook 3 minutes on the skin side. Transfer salmon to a plate.
Sauté Aromatics & Tomatoes
Lower heat to medium. Add remaining butter and olive oil. Sauté minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 1 minute until fragrant.
Build Velvety Cream Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3 minutes. Stir in grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and red pepper flakes until sauce is smooth and glossy.
Wilt Spinach & Return Salmon
Add baby spinach and fresh basil, stirring for 1 minute until spinach just wilts. Nestle salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning sauce over top. Simmer for 2 minutes until salmon reaches desired doneness (125-130°F for medium).
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with extra fresh basil and parmesan. Serve immediately with crusty bread, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Chef Clara's Kitchen Picks
Kitchen EssentialsAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nordic Ware Naturals Half Sheet, 2-Pack
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Silicone whisks safe for nonstick pans, in two sizes.
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Six speeds with a snap-on storage case for the beaters.
View on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, but simmer the sauce slightly longer or whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch slurry to achieve the same luscious thickness.
It is sublime spooned over al dente fettuccine, angel hair, fluffy jasmine rice, or roasted asparagus.
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep the salmon tender.
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