Marry Me Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the rich flavor of perfectly cooked salmon with a luxurious, velvety sauce made with garlic, cream, and a touch of parmesan. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser, both for its delightful taste and the fact that it’s relatively simple to prepare. The creamy sauce, enhanced by the tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, complements the salmon’s natural richness, making each bite irresistibly delicious. It’s no wonder why many call it “Marry Me Salmon”—it’s that good!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.

3. Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the salmon and set it aside.

4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

6. Pour in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, dried basil, and oregano. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 3-5 minutes.

7. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over them, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

8. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve with the creamy sauce spooned over the top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Marry Me Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for a spicy kick.

• Lemon Marry Me Salmon: Add some freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the salmon with roasted portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the fish.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best results.

2. What sides go well with Marry Me Salmon?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It also goes great with a side of pasta.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it before serving.

4. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but the texture may be slightly different.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

While sun-dried tomatoes add a unique flavor, fresh tomatoes can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to cook them down a little longer to concentrate their flavors.

7. What other fish can I use instead of salmon?

You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like trout, cod, or halibut, but adjust the cooking times accordingly.

8. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

This dish is best served immediately after cooking, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready to serve.

9. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little more cream or chicken broth to thin it out.

10. Can I make this recipe in a non-stick skillet?

Yes, a non-stick skillet will work just fine for cooking the salmon and making the sauce. Just make sure it’s oven-safe if you’re finishing the dish in the oven.

Conclusion

Marry Me Salmon is a fantastic, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender salmon, and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re impressing a guest or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe!