Creamy Tuscan Salmon With Rice

Name: Creamy Tuscan Salmon With Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1 cup rice; 2 cups spinach; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Collection

I absolutely love making Creamy Tuscan Salmon with Rice! The rich, buttery sauce blends so beautifully with tender salmon fillets and pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice. It's a comforting dish that brings together the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and garlic, making it my go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just the right balance of creamy and savory, it's a delightful meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:57:36.162Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without compromising flavor. The creaminess of the sauce really enhances the natural richness of the salmon. Pairing this dish with rice not only adds heartiness but also allows you to enjoy every last drop of the sauce!

One detail I've found makes all the difference is using a good quality broth—chicken or vegetable—when making the sauce. It elevates the overall taste, marrying all the ingredients seamlessly. Plus, fresh herbs bring a beautiful aroma that you can’t resist!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich flavor from creamy sauce combined with bright sun-dried tomatoes
Perfectly cooked salmon that melts in your mouth
Easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight meal

The Role of Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this recipe plays a pivotal role in achieving the dish's rich flavor profile. Using heavy cream not only adds a velvety consistency but also balances the tartness of sun-dried tomatoes. This combination elevates the overall profile, ensuring that each bite remains indulgent yet refreshing. When simmering the cream, keep an eye on the heat—too high can cause it to break and lose its silky texture; aim for a gentle simmer for best results.

Garlic is another key player in the sauce. Sautéing it until fragrant (but not browned) brings out its natural sweetness and depth, blending harmoniously with the brightness of the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. The goal is to have a luscious sauce that clings to the salmon and rice, creating a delightful experience with every forkful.

Choosing the Right Salmon

Selecting the right salmon fillets is crucial for this recipe. Opt for skin-on fillets if you enjoy a crispy texture; simply place them skin-side down in the skillet. This not only adds flavor but helps them stay moist during cooking. If you're concerned about sustainability, look for wild-caught salmon, which generally has a firmer texture and richer flavor than farmed salmon.

For a quicker cooking time, consider using thinner fillets, approximately 1 inch thick. If your fillets are thicker, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly, ensuring that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption. A great tip is to press the center of the fillet; it should flake easily when done.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to whip up this creamy delight:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1 cup rice
2 cups spinach
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful meal:

Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. Set aside once fluffy.

Sear the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and simmer.

Add Cream and Spinach

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting it simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly. Add the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.

Combine Everything

Return the salmon to the skillet ensuring it's coated with the creamy sauce. Cook together for another 2 minutes.

Serve

Serve the salmon over a bed of rice and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy Tuscan delight!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it's simmering.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Tuscan Salmon can be partially prepared in advance, making it a great meal for busy weekdays. You can cook the rice and prepare the sauce ahead of time—just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and add the fresh spinach to wilt right before plating. Cook the salmon fresh to ensure it's perfectly flaky and tender.

If you're looking to save even more time, consider swapping the fresh spinach for frozen. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the sauce so the consistency remains creamy without becoming watery.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dinner presentation, consider serving the salmon over a bed of lemon-infused rice. Simply add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of zest to the rice while it's cooking; this brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce. Alternatively, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition.

For a delightful pairing, a chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy sauce beautifully. This pairing enhances the dining experience, allowing the dish's flavors to shine even more. Enjoy this meal as a cozy evening treat or as a centerpiece for guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and dry it before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini would work beautifully in this dish.