There’s something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of salmon sizzling in a pan, mingling with the sweet scent of cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor. Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce brings that magic to your kitchen, inviting you to experience a culinary delight that’s as quick to prepare as it is delicious.
Imagine the scene: you’ve just come home after a long day, and instead of resorting to takeout, your kitchen transforms into a gourmet restaurant. In just 20 minutes, you can serve a dish that will make your taste buds sing and your dinner guests swoon. It’s the perfect meal for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.
- The combination of flavors is vibrant and refreshing, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
- Its stunning presentation makes it an instant crowd-pleaser on any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with various sides or even stand alone!
Ingredients for Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, skinless fillets for the best flavor and texture. Wild-caught salmon is often more flavorful than farmed.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Select vibrant, plump tomatoes; they should be sweet and juicy. Grape tomatoes work well too!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth to the sauce; always choose firm cloves for maximum flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste and health benefits.
- Fresh Basil: This adds a fragrant touch that elevates the dish’s freshness; feel free to chop it roughly.
For seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and slicing them in half. Mince the garlic and chop fresh basil; having everything prepped will make cooking a breeze.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet over medium heat, add two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow it to warm up until shimmering but not smoking—this ensures that your salmon gets that perfect sear.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Season both sides of your salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet skin-side down (or what used to be skin-side) and cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Garlic
Carefully flip the salmon using a spatula. Toss in your halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic around the salmon in the pan. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start bursting open.
Step 5: Finish with Basil
Once your salmon is cooked through (it should flake easily), sprinkle freshly chopped basil over everything for that pop of color and flavor.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your beautiful creation onto plates, making sure to spoon some of those juicy tomatoes over each piece of salmon. Drizzle any remaining oil from the pan on top—it’s like liquid gold!
Now sit back and watch as everyone at your table marvels at this stunning dish you’ve created in no time flat. Who knew cooking could be so quick yet so impressive? Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce packs a punch of flavor and makes for an effortless meal.
- With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it will impress even your pickiest dinner guests.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce, start by searing the salmon skin-side down in a hot pan. While it cooks, sauté the tomatoes and garlic for the sauce, saving time and ensuring everything is perfectly synchronized.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe! Swap out cherry tomatoes for heirloom varieties or add some olives for a briny kick. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the dish even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, preserving that delicious flavor without overcooking the salmon.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get a perfect sear on your salmon, ensure your pan is hot before adding the fish.
- Use fresh tomatoes for better flavor; canned ones can be too soft.
- Don’t skip letting the salmon rest after cooking; it keeps it juicy and tender.
Sometimes I whip up Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce when friends drop by unexpectedly. Their delighted expressions when they taste it always remind me why I love cooking!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce?
To prepare Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce, gather fresh salmon fillets, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil. Other essentials include salt, pepper, and optional lemon for added flavor. This simple yet delicious recipe highlights the freshness of the ingredients while ensuring a quick cooking time. The combination of the vibrant cherry tomato sauce with perfectly cooked salmon creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion.
How do I cook the salmon in this recipe?
Cooking the salmon in Ina Garten’s 20-minute recipe is straightforward. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour the cherry tomato sauce over the salmon and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. This method ensures that the salmon remains moist and flavorful while absorbing the delicious sauce.
Can I make adjustments to the recipe?
Yes, you can customize Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce to suit your taste preferences. For instance, try adding different herbs like thyme or dill for variation. You can also switch out the cherry tomatoes for other varieties, such as grape or heirloom tomatoes. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the sauce. These adjustments can enhance the dish while maintaining its essence and quick preparation time.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Pair it with your favorite sides like rice or quinoa for a nutritious meal that saves you time during busy weekdays.
Conclusion for Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce :
Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce is an excellent choice for those seeking a quick yet flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, this dish showcases how delicious healthy eating can be in just under half an hour. Remember to adjust seasonings and herbs according to your preferences to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy this delightful recipe any day of the week without sacrificing quality or taste!
Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Ina Garten’s 20-minute salmon with cherry tomato sauce. This quick and easy recipe transforms fresh salmon fillets into a gourmet dish, perfectly complemented by a vibrant cherry tomato sauce. In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties. With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish proves that healthy eating can be both effortless and satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and halve cherry tomatoes. Mince garlic and chop basil.
- Heat the pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering.
- Cook the salmon: Season salmon with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down in the skillet for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Add tomatoes and garlic: Carefully flip the salmon, add tomatoes and garlic around it, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tomatoes burst.
- Finish with basil: Sprinkle chopped basil over the dish once the salmon is cooked through.
- Serve: Plate the salmon with bursting tomatoes on top and drizzle with remaining pan juices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish. Swap cherry tomatoes for heirloom varieties or add olives for a briny twist.







