Introduction

Marry Me Salmon is a quick and romantic dinner featuring tender salmon fillets in a luscious creamy garlic sun-dried tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for impressing someone special or simply elevating your weeknight meal with rich flavors and elegant presentation.

Two thick pieces of grilled salmon with a crispy light brown outer layer lie side by side in a shallow pool of creamy, light beige sauce speckled with black pepper. The sauce covers the top parts of the fish and spreads around the base, with small bits of dark green chopped herbs scattered generously on top and around. The salmon fillets showing subtle orange-pink flakes create a nice contrast against the smooth sauce. The dish is served in a white bowl with a gentle curve. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 fillets salmon (skinless for even cooking)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, freshly minced
1 cup chicken broth (vegetable broth as substitute)
1 cup heavy cream (coconut cream for dairy-free option)
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil, for garnishing

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and a dash of paprika if desired. Let them rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes until cooked through and flaky. Remove salmon and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Step 4: Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes to soften. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the fillets. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the salmon is heated through and tender.
Step 7: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot with your choice of sides such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Tips & Variations

Ensure the skillet is hot before searing salmon to get a crispy exterior and prevent sticking.
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Add fresh spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
Swap salmon for chicken, shrimp, or firm tofu to suit your preference or dietary needs.
A splash of lemon juice or zest brightens the sauce and adds a fresh twist.
Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed asparagus for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness. It’s best to freeze the salmon separately and prepare a fresh sauce upon reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Two grilled salmon fillets with a bright orange and slightly charred surface sit close together on a white plate. The fish is covered with a creamy beige sauce that has a smooth texture and is speckled with black pepper. Scattered green herb pieces add a fresh contrast on top and around the fillets. The plate holds a small amount of the sauce pooled underneath. The photo is taken close up, showing the glossy texture of the sauce and the flaky fish beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

How do I choose the right salmon fillets?

Select fillets that are firm with vibrant color and a fresh, mild smell. Avoid those with dark spots or a strong fishy odor. Skinless fillets cook evenly and present beautifully.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container once the dish has cooled completely. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.

Can I freeze Marry Me Salmon?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap the salmon tightly and use a freezer-safe container. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

What if the sauce is too thick?

Simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream over low heat to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning afterward as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely. For dairy-free needs, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure.

Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Definitely. Chicken breasts, shrimp, or firm tofu work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken takes longer, shrimp cooks faster.