Marry Me Salmon

Published:

by Lizzy

Rich, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful, Marry Me Salmon is a swoon-worthy dish that pairs tender salmon fillets with a luxurious sun-dried tomato cream sauce. This delightful recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy weeknight dinner that feels like a treat. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its unique flavors and elegant presentation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare: Marry Me Salmon takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce elevates the salmon to gourmet status.
  • Versatile Pairings: Serve it with garlic mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Impressive Presentation: This dish looks stunning on the plate, making it great for entertaining guests.
  • Healthy and Delicious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Marry Me Salmon journey, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the proper kitchen equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring cups
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet: Essential for sautéing ingredients and creating the rich cream sauce that complements the salmon.
  • Baking Dish: Provides a safe and even cooking environment for your salmon to bake perfectly.
  • Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.
  • Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
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How to Make Marry Me Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly when it’s placed in the oven.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Drizzle them with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt butter until bubbly.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until softened.
4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add Parmesan cheese along with thyme and basil; stir until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over each fillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once done baking, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top as garnish. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides such as rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious Marry Me Salmon!

How to Serve Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it an ideal dish for various occasions. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a lively dinner party, how you serve this dish can enhance the overall experience.

Pair with Fresh Greens

  • Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
  • Spinach and Feta Salad: Fresh spinach leaves tossed with feta cheese and cherry tomatoes add a refreshing touch.

Accompany with Starches

  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the sun-dried tomato sauce.
  • Orzo Pasta: Lightly seasoned orzo pasta provides a lovely base for the creamy salmon.

Add Colorful Roasted Vegetables

  • Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings a crisp texture and vibrant color to your plate.
  • Mixed Roasted Veggies: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots roasted until caramelized adds sweetness that balances the dish.

Enhance with Breads

  • Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread on the side to mop up every bit of that luscious cream sauce.
  • Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks add flavor and a fun twist to your meal presentation.

How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon

Creating the perfect Marry Me Salmon requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips to get it just right.

  • Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season the salmon generously with salt and pepper for optimal flavor.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs like thyme and basil for a more aromatic sauce.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the salmon while baking; it should flake easily but remain moist.
  • Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like goat cheese or feta for a unique flavor twist.
  • Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, consider using heavy cream or adding additional Parmesan cheese.
  • Garnish Creatively: Finish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or even lemon zest for added brightness.
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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon

When serving Marry Me Salmon, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

  1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce from the salmon.
  2. Lemon Garlic Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lemon and garlic offers a bright contrast to the creamy flavors of the dish.
  3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the salmon.
  4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and mint provides great texture and flavor.
  5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles are a healthy alternative that pairs well without overpowering the main dish.
  6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that complements the savory elements of Marry Me Salmon.
  7. Cauliflower Mash: A lower-carb option that mimics mashed potatoes’ creaminess while adding extra nutrients.
  8. Couscous Medley: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices serves as a delightful base under your salmon fillet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Marry Me Salmon, it’s easy to make a few errors that can affect the dish’s quality. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

  • Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always season your fillets with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
  • Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven once it flakes easily with a fork.
  • Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality sun-dried tomatoes or cream can compromise flavor. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
  • Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing the sauce can result in a watery texture. Allow it to simmer until it thickens properly before adding cheese.
  • Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley or other garnishes can make the dish look less appealing. A touch of green adds visual appeal and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Marry Me Salmon

  • Place cooled salmon in a freezer-safe container.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Marry Me Salmon

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5-7 minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Marry Me Salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon for Marry Me Salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

What sides pair well with Marry Me Salmon?

Marry Me Salmon pairs well with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before pouring it over the salmon.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Marry Me Salmon is excellent for meal prep. Just store portions separately and reheat as needed during the week.

How spicy is Marry Me Salmon?

This recipe is not spicy but flavorful. If you prefer heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Salmon is not only a quick and delicious option but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste. Whether you add spice or experiment with different sides, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table. Try it tonight and see why it’s so beloved!

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Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon


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  • Author: Lizzy
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Marry Me Salmon is a luxurious yet quick dish that marries tender salmon fillets with a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can create an elegantly presented meal that’s perfect for date nights or special gatherings. The irresistible combination of flavors, including garlic and Parmesan cheese, transforms simple salmon into a gourmet experience. Pair it with your favorite sides like garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that will impress anyone at your table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat salmon dry, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer until thickened. Mix in Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning.
  5. Place salmon in a baking dish, pour sauce over it, and bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
  • Calories: 383
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 645mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 81mg

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