Picture this: you’ve had a long week, and the last thing on your mind is settling for the same old takeout again. Instead, why not treat yourself to something exquisite? This Marry Me Salmon, with its rich, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, is not just a meal—it’s an experience that might just win hearts all over again.
I remember when I first whipped this dish up on a Tuesday evening, hoping to surprise a friend. What started as a simple dinner quickly transformed into a culinary celebration. The moment I took my first bite, a wave of flavors enveloped me—the warmth of garlic, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and that luscious creaminess coming together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re cooking for love, family, or simply craving something delightful, this dish effortlessly combines comfort with elegance. In just 20 minutes, you too can create a beautiful dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this simple yet show-stopping recipe that’s ready to elevate your dining experience!
Why is Marry Me Salmon so special?
Irresistible flavor: This dish boasts a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce that dances with every bite, blending savory and slightly sweet notes beautifully.
Quick and easy: With just 20 minutes of cooking time, impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Romantic dinner: Perfectly named, this recipe has a reputation for making hearts flutter; it’s guaranteed to spark romance!
Versatile pairing: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that appeals to any palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for one or a family of five, everyone will love this comforting, yet elegant dish.
Marry Me Salmon Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flirty dish!
For the Salmon
- 3–4 salmon fillets – skin removed for a smoother texture that allows the sauce to shine.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – provides a perfect base for searing the salmon while adding a touch of flavor.
For the Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil – infuses the dish with a lovely herbaceous note that complements the creaminess.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – enhances the savory depth; feel free to adjust to your garlic-loving heart’s content!
- 1 tsp onion powder – adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to your dish.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme – introduces a fragrant warmth that pairs well with salmon and cream.
- 3/4 tsp red pepper flakes – gives a hint of spice to balance the richness of the sauce.
- 1/4 tsp salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – a touch of piquancy for an extra kick!
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup chicken stock, unsalted – adds depth and moisture to the sauce without overpowering it.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – the magical ingredient that transforms this dish into a luxurious experience.
- 1/3 cup chopped sundried tomatoes – adds bursts of concentrated flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
- 5 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic enhances the aroma and flavor profile of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese – brings a nutty richness that ties all the elements together.
To Garnish
- Fresh basil – adds a fresh touch that completes the dish visually and in flavor!
Get ready to create this irresistible Marry Me Salmon that will leave everyone at your table enchanted!
How to Make Marry Me Salmon
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Combine the seasonings in a small bowl. Mix together the dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until they’re well blended and fragrant.
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Season the salmon fillets by rubbing half of the seasoning mix into both sides. This will ensure every bite bursts with flavor!
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon in the pan, flesh side down. Sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in the same skillet. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of the sun-dried tomato oil for an extra flavor boost. Cook on low heat for 1-2 minutes.
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Deglaze the skillet by adding the chicken stock. Scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck to the pan, which will enhance your sauce’s flavor.
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Stir in the heavy cream, fresh parmesan cheese, and the remaining seasoning mix. Combine everything thoroughly for a creamy, delectable sauce.
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Simmer on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if desired.
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Return the salmon to the skillet and gently spoon the luscious sauce over it. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, depending on how you like your salmon cooked.
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Serve your Marry Me Salmon hot and garnish generously with fresh basil for that perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra parmesan for an even cheesier experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Salmon
Fridge: Store leftover Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the sauce covers the salmon to keep it moist.
Freezer: You can freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight before reheating. Gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Marry Me Salmon fillets are ideal for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save precious time! You can season the salmon and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, then add the stock and cream before cooling. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on low and return the salmon to the skillet, cooking it gently until heated through. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Marry Me Salmon?
Transform your meal into a culinary delight by pairing this creamy, luscious salmon with tantalizing side dishes that complement its rich flavors.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes soak up the sun-dried tomato sauce beautifully, adding a satisfying heartiness to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a fresh crunch that brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the sauce for an elegant touch.
- Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with diced veggies and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy salmon, enhancing the overall flavors.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy edges bring a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salmon, creating a delightful textural contrast.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with a tangy dressing and crunchy croutons makes for a classic side that adds freshness and zest to each bite of salmon.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and nutty, this grain-based side absorbs the sauce perfectly while adding wholesome nutrients to your meal.
- Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce and bright flavors, enhancing the dining experience beautifully.
- Tiramisu: Finish off your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, offering a comforting end to your romantic dinner.
Marry Me Salmon Variations
Feel free to explore exciting twists on this dish with these delicious ideas that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture with a hint of tropical flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to serve alongside this dish for a complete meal that everyone can enjoy.
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Herb-Heavy: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, adding them at the end to brighten up the flavors even more!
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Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or kale into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering for added nutrition and vibrant color.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños to spice things up if you’re a heat lover!
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Nutty Richness: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts in the sauce for a delightful crunch and added dimension.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten up the dish by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce right before serving; it complements the salmon beautifully.
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Wine Upgrade: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the chicken stock for an elevated sauce that’s oozing with flavor!
With these variations, your Marry Me Salmon can take on a life of its own every time you make it!
Expert Tips for Marry Me Salmon
- Perfectly Seared Salmon: Achieve a nice crust by ensuring the skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps lock in moisture and flavor!
- Creamy Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. Keep stirring to prevent sticking while enriching the creamy texture.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce as it simmers to adjust seasoning. Remember, you can add more salt, but it’s tough to fix if it’s too salty!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and basil ideally; they elevate the flavors in your Marry Me Salmon to an irresistible level.
- Rest Your Salmon: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy and enhances the overall flavor!
- Pairing Suggestions: Consider serving your dish over a bed of pasta or alongside a fresh salad to complement the rich sauce perfectly.
Marry Me Salmon Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, skinless salmon fillets; sockeye or Atlantic salmon work beautifully. Make sure the fillets are bright in color, with no dark spots, and have a fresh sea scent.
How long can I store leftovers of Marry Me Salmon?
You can keep leftover Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the sauce covers the salmon to retain moisture and flavor!
Can I freeze Marry Me Salmon?
Yes! For optimal freshness, wrap each cooked salmon fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
What if my sauce is too thin?
Not a worry! If your sauce seems thinner than desired, you can thicken it by simmering it longer. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for my dairy-free friends?
Very! You can substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just remember to also use dairy-free parmesan cheese, which is widely available at grocery stores.
Can I use fresh sun-dried tomatoes instead of jarred ones?
Definitely! Fresh sun-dried tomatoes can add a fantastic flavor. If using fresh, make sure to chop them up and sauté them a bit longer to bring out their natural sweetness, enhancing your Marry Me Salmon dish beautifully.
Marry Me Salmon: The Flirty Dish Everyone Craves
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the seasonings in a small bowl.
- Season the salmon fillets by rubbing half of the seasoning mix into both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the seasoned salmon for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Sauté the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in the same skillet.
- Deglaze the skillet by adding the chicken stock and scraping up any bits.
- Stir in the heavy cream, fresh parmesan cheese, and remaining seasoning mix.
- Simmer on medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the salmon to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Serve hot and garnish generously with fresh basil.