Marry Me Salmon Recipe

Marry Me Salmon is about to become your new obsession, and trust me, there’s a reason everyone falls head over heels for this creamy, flavor-packed dish! With perfectly seared salmon fillets nestled in a velvety parmesan cream sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and fragrant herbs, this recipe is the kind of weeknight magic that turns a simple dinner into something truly memorable. If you love meals that feel elegant but are easy enough to tackle any night, Marry Me Salmon is exactly what your menu needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With a handful of everyday pantry staples and a few fresh touches, every ingredient in Marry Me Salmon earns its place on the plate. Each component adds a bold pop of color, a punch of flavor, or a luxurious richness, so don’t skip a thing—this is true culinary harmony!

• Salmon fillets: The star of the dish, choose skinless fillets for a buttery texture that soaks up all the creamy sauce.
• Olive oil: Use a splash in the pan to get a savory sear and a boost of richness.
• Dried basil: Adds a gentle, sweet aroma that brightens both the salmon and the sauce.
• Garlic powder: Enhances flavor depth and pairs perfectly with the fresh minced garlic.
• Onion powder: Rounds out all the flavors with a subtle, savory note.
• Dried thyme: Infuses the sauce with a slightly earthy, woodsy fragrance.
• Red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to add excitement without overpowering the delicate salmon.
• Salt: A little goes a long way to bring every ingredient to life.
• Black pepper: Balances everything with its gentle kick.
• Chicken stock (unsalted): The flavorful liquid foundation for a sauce that tastes like it simmered for hours.
• Heavy cream: A must for that luscious, velvety texture that defines Marry Me Salmon’s sauce.
• Sundried tomatoes: Their sweet-tart punch and chewy texture give brightness and a burst of color.
• Garlic cloves (minced): For robust, fresh flavor that’s a game-changer in the sauce.
• Freshly shredded parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a savory, salty finish you can’t resist.
• Fresh basil: Garnish with this for a burst of green and an herby zing that brings everything together.

How to Make Marry Me Salmon

Step 1: Mix the Seasonings

Start by adding the dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to a small bowl. Give them a thorough stir—this blend is your secret weapon for infusing the Marry Me Salmon with fragrance and flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Season the Salmon Fillets

Sprinkle half of your freshly mixed seasoning onto the salmon fillets, covering both sides. Massage the spices in with your fingers so every bite is bursting with those herby, peppery notes that will layer beautifully with the creamy sauce later.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Set a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in your olive oil. When the surface shimmers, place the seasoned salmon fillets, flesh side down first, and sear each side for about five minutes. This quick high-heat step locks in moisture and builds that irresistible golden crust. Once seared, move the fillets to a plate—you’ll bring them back soon!

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Into the same sizzling skillet, drop the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. For an even deeper flavor, add a splash of sun-dried tomato oil if you have it on hand. Lower the heat and let them sizzle for one to two minutes, just until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes are juicy.

Step 5: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pan to release every caramelized bit leftover from the salmon—it’s pure flavor gold! Next, add the heavy cream, parmesan, and the rest of your seasoning mix. Stir everything together and let the sauce gently simmer over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, thickening into creamy perfection. Taste and add extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Salmon

Return the salmon fillets back to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon generous amounts of the luscious parmesan sun-dried tomato sauce over the tops, and let everything bubble together for an additional three to five minutes—just long enough for the flavors to meld and for the salmon to reach your ideal doneness. Serve immediately and prepare for applause!

How to Serve Marry Me Salmon

Garnishes

Nothing elevates Marry Me Salmon quite like a scattering of fresh basil right before serving. Tear or chiffonade the basil leaves and shower them over the saucy salmon for an herbal burst of green that perks up the plate and adds a garden-fresh aroma.

Side Dishes

This dreamy salmon begs for something that will soak up every drop of sauce. Try serving it over buttery mashed potatoes, creamy orzo, or a fluffy bed of rice. If you want something lighter, a crisp green salad or simply steamed green beans make excellent companions without stealing the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra wow-factor, serve your Marry Me Salmon family-style in the skillet with the sauce swirled all around. You can also individually plate each fillet on a mound of whipped potatoes, drizzle with sauce, and sprinkle with basil for a restaurant-worthy look. Or, tuck leftovers into toasted baguettes with arugula for a decadent lunch sandwich!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it’s just as wonderful the next day for quick lunches or an easy heat-and-eat dinner.

Freezing

While the sauce is rich with cream and best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon portions and sauce separately for up to a month. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon and sauce together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if the sauce needs loosening. Avoid high heat or microwaving, which can toughen the fish and split the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for Marry Me Salmon?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and searing so you get that lovely golden crust and the sauce doesn’t turn watery.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can swap in half-and-half or even coconut cream for a unique twist, though your sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free version, full-fat canned coconut milk is your best bet.

Is there a vegetarian way to make Marry Me Salmon?

For a vegetarian spin, substitute thick-cut cauliflower steaks or tofu slabs in place of salmon. Sear them the same way and follow the sauce steps as written for a seriously satisfying (and meatless) dinner.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Of course! Cod, sea bass, or even trout are also fabulous with this velvety sauce. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your fillets.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Perfectly cooked salmon will flake lightly with a fork and appear opaque rather than translucent in the center. If you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temp of 125-130°F for moist, medium salmon.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Marry Me Salmon before, now is the time—this recipe truly lives up to its swoon-worthy name. Invite some friends over, pour a glass of wine, and watch as everyone falls for this creamy, flavorful classic. Give it a go and make some magic in your kitchen tonight!

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