This creamy roasted red pepper salmon is a fantastic dish! The salmon is juicy and topped with a rich, flavorful sauce made from roasted red peppers and cream.
It’s quick to make, and the sauce is so good, you’ll want to have it with everything! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a colorful and tasty meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, try using trout or even chicken breast if you’re not a fan of fish. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly!
Roasted Red Peppers: You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience, but homemade ones are a great option too! If peppers aren’t available, sun-dried tomatoes or non-spicy salsa could also work in a pinch.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly but still be delicious!
Fresh Spinach: If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard can also be used. Just chop them up and add them in the same way. They’ll add a nice touch of color and nutrition!
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked fillets every time. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Cooking skin-side down first can help keep moisture in; let it cook for about 4-5 minutes before flipping.
- Check for doneness with a fork—salmon should flake easily, and the color should change to a light pink.
Remove the salmon to avoid overcooking, then add your sauce to keep everything warm and flavorful!
How to Make Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade), chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Cooked rice or preferred side, to serve
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, in just under 40 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by seasoning the salmon fillets generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you’d like a little kick. This is the first step to adding great flavor to your fish!
2. Cook the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are nicely browned. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are fully cooked through and flaky. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened. This adds a lovely base flavor to your sauce!
4. Add Veggies:
Next, add the chopped roasted red peppers and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to blister and soften. Then, stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts—this only takes a minute or two!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together well to create a smooth sauce with all those delicious flavors. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Combine & Serve:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir in the chopped basil and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy roasted red pepper sauce over the top to rewarm it.
7. Final Touches:
To serve, plate each salmon fillet with a generous ladle of sauce over it. Serve alongside cooked rice or your favorite side dish. Don’t forget to garnish with extra fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful, creamy roasted red pepper salmon! It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress your friends and family!
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use trout, chicken breast, or even tofu for a plant-based option. Just remember to adjust the cooking times as needed—chicken may take a little longer to cook through.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk with a little flour, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that each option will slightly alter the taste and texture of the sauce!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish goes wonderfully with cooked rice, pasta, or even quinoa! You can also pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete and balanced meal.