Ingredients
Method
Prep & Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets thoroughly dry on both sides using paper towels (removing moisture is critical for an ultra-crispy golden crust). Season both sides evenly with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and foaming.
- Add the seasoned salmon fillets flesh-side down (or skin-side up). Sear undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until a deeply golden, caramelized crust develops. Gently flip with a fish spatula and sear the other side for 3 to 4 minutes, until cooked to medium (about 125°F-130°F internal). Transfer salmon to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil.
Build the Tuscan Garlic Cream Sauce
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the flavorful pan drippings. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
- Add the drained sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until tender and their rich aromatic tomato oils release into the butter.
- Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to deglaze the bottom of the skillet and scrape up any caramelized golden fond. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Fold Spinach, Melt Cheese & Assemble
- Stir in the fresh grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese until completely melted and velvety smooth. Add the baby spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring gently until the leaves wilt into the creamy sauce.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with a pinch more sea salt or black pepper if needed. Nest the seared salmon fillets back into the bubbling skillet sauce, spooning warm creamy Tuscan sauce over each fillet.
- Simmer on low for 1 minute just to reheat the fillets through. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing.