Description
Welcome to another delicious journey in the kitchen! If you’re a seafood lover or simply enjoy a dish packed with bold flavors, you’re in for a treat with this Salmon in Creamy Red Pesto Sauce. It’s a mouthwatering combination of tender salmon, garlic-infused spinach, and a rich sun-dried tomato pesto sauce—all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. Ready to impress your family or friends with minimal effort? Let’s dive right in!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 pound salmon fillet
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¾ cup crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup red pesto
- 7 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 3.5 ounces spinach
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Chili flakes for garnish (optional)
Optional Substitutions:
- Allergen-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Low-Fat Option: Swap regular cream cheese with a reduced-fat version.
- Vegan: Replace the salmon with tofu or chickpeas and use a vegan pesto.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and pat the salmon fillets dry. Season the salmon on both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil and butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon for about 3 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the garlic and onion, cooking them for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Saucy Ingredients
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the red pesto and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for about a minute until it starts to wilt. This step will enrich the sauce with extra nutrition and flavor.
Step 6: Finish Cooking the Salmon
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and allow them to cook in the sauce for an additional 3 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked through.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of heat. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh salmon, garlic, and spinach. Fresh produce always elevates the dish!
- Make Ahead: You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it when ready to serve.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like things spicy, feel free to add extra chili flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat.