Salmon in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Salmon in Creamy Tomato Sauce with Fresh Goat Cheese

This recipe is packed with fresh, bright flavors and a rich, creamy texture, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or special meal. Adjust the goat cheese for added or less creaminess.

Ingredients:

• 2 (4-ounce) salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry heirloom tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup diced canned tomato 
• ⅓ cup fresh goat cheese, crumbled
•  1 cup chopped fresh spinach
• ¼ cup vegetable broth
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh thyme, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your cast iron skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat up.
2. Cook the salmon: Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the fillets in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but still moist. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped shallots and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, about 3-4 minutes. ( this can also be done in a non-cast iron skillet).
4. Add the tomato sauce and goat cheese: Stir in the diced tomatoes and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Then add the fresh goat cheese and stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
5. Incorporate the cream: Reduce the heat to low, and slowly pour in the broth. Stir until the sauce is fully combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Add fresh spinach so it lightly steams.
6. Return the salmon to the skillet: Gently place the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning some of the creamy tomato sauce over the top.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Top with freshly chopped basil and thyme. Serve the salmon hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Tip: Serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the creamy tomato sauce, or pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy!

Wine Recommendation:

A Pinot Noir is an excellent choice for a salmon with goat cheese dish. Its light to medium body, bright acidity, and notes of red berries complement the richness of the salmon and the tangy creaminess of the goat cheese. If you prefer white wine, a Sauvignon Blanc with citrus and herbaceous notes also pairs beautifully