Chef Ed’s Smoked Salmon in Tarragon Cream Sauce

This gourmet dish delivers a rich, aromatic fusion of smoked salmon and creamy white wine sauce, finished with vibrant cherry tomatoes and wilted spinach. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a luxurious Sunday lunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs smoked salmon, sliced into 4 inch 4 ounce size chucksKeywords: smoked salmon, cream sauce, tarragon, cherry tomatoes, spinach, gourmet seafood recipe, omega-3, garlic butter sauce, Chef Ed, white wine sauce, smoked salmon dinner, heart-healthy meal, luxury seafood dish, spinach nutrition, cherry tomato benefits, creamy seafood pasta, salmon wine pairing, healthy gourmet meal, salmon recipes, creamy tarragon, smoked fish recipes, Chef Ed recipe, elegant dinner idea, tarragon cream sauce, Mediterranean diet, rich seafood entrée, comfort food seafood, French-inspired salmon, smoked salmon cream, garlic onion sauce, butter cream sauce
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon (or 1 teaspoon dried), finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups baby spinach leaves
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
  • Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread (to serve)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add the chopped onKeywords: smoked salmon, cream sauce, tarragon, cherry tomatoes, spinach, gourmet seafood recipe, omega-3, garlic butter sauce, Chef Ed, white wine sauce, smoked salmon dinner, heart-healthy meal, luxury seafood dish, spinach nutrition, cherry tomato benefits, creamy seafood pasta, salmon wine pairing, healthy gourmet meal, salmon recipes, creamy tarragon, smoked fish recipes, Chef Ed recipe, elegant dinner idea, tarragon cream sauce, Mediterranean diet, rich seafood entrée, comfort food seafood, French-inspired salmon, smoked salmon cream, garlic onion sauce, butter cream sauceion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly. This deglazes the pan and concentrates the flavor, creating the perfect base for the sauce.

3. Add Cream and Herbs

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped tarragon. Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Add Tomatoes and SpinachKeywords: smoked salmon, cream sauce, tarragon, cherry tomatoes, spinach, gourmet seafood recipe, omega-3, garlic butter sauce, Chef Ed, white wine sauce, smoked salmon dinner, heart-healthy meal, luxury seafood dish, spinach nutrition, cherry tomato benefits, creamy seafood pasta, salmon wine pairing, healthy gourmet meal, salmon recipes, creamy tarragon, smoked fish recipes, Chef Ed recipe, elegant dinner idea, tarragon cream sauce, Mediterranean diet, rich seafood entrée, comfort food seafood, French-inspired salmon, smoked salmon cream, garlic onion sauce, butter cream sauce

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until just softened. Then add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.

5. Fold in the Salmon

Gently add the smoked salmon chunks into the sauce. Let it warm through for 2 minutes. Avoid over-stirring to preserve the flaky texture of the salmon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Serve Immediately

Spoon the creamy salmon mixture over your choice of pasta, rice, or toasted bread. Garnish with a spritz of lemon juice for brightness, if desired.

Chef Ed’s Tips

  • Use cold-smoked salmon for a silkier texture or hot-smoked for a bolder, firmer bite.
  • Tarragon brings a subtle licorice flavor—adjust to taste or substitute with fresh dill for a twist.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Health Benefits

Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart and brain health. Spinach adds fiber and iron, while tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene. The cream sauce, though indulgent, can be adjusted with half-and-half or light cream for a healthier option.

 

 

References