If you are looking for a dish that will sweep someone off their feet, look no further than this Marry Me Salmon Recipe. It’s a luxurious yet surprisingly simple salmon entrée bathed in a creamy, garlicky sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan, delivering a perfect harmony of flavors that feels both comforting and elegant. Every bite is a celebration of tender, seared salmon wrapped in a sauce that’s so delicious, you might just find yourself proposing to the chef—or at least asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Marry Me Salmon Recipe lies in its straightforward, thoughtful ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable plate. Each component is essential, whether it’s the richness of heavy cream, the tangy burst of sun-dried tomatoes, or the fragrant lift from Italian seasoning, all building layers of flavor and texture you will adore.
- Salmon fillets (4, 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for moist and flaky results.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For searing, adding a subtle fruity richness to the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant, savory base for the sauce.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds depth and helps deglaze the pan for flavor-packed sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates a luscious, velvety texture in the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds nuttiness and savory richness to the creamy sauce.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (1/4 cup, chopped): Bring a concentrated burst of sweet-tart flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that lifts the entire dish with aromatic warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a gentle kick that wakes up your palate.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A bright and fresh garnish to complete the dish.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon
Start by generously seasoning your salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavor once the fish hits the pan. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet until shimmering, then place the salmon skin-side down to sear. Allow each side to cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the exterior is beautifully golden and slightly crisp, sealing in those delicious juices. Once done, set the fillets aside to rest.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Using the same skillet, add your minced garlic, sautéing for just about a minute until fragrant and golden but not burned. This quick garlic burst infuses the pan with the dish’s signature aroma. Next, pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those tasty browned bits clinging to the pan—these bits pack serious flavor! Let that simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now for the creamy dream that makes this Marry Me Salmon Recipe so addictive. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. The sauce will thicken in about 3 to 4 minutes, turning silky and rich, with bursts of tangy tomato and herbs melding beautifully.
Step 4: Finish Cooking the Salmon in Sauce
Return those seared salmon fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently in the sauce. Spoon the luscious mixture over the top of the salmon and let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the fish to reheat and soak up all those gorgeous flavors one last time. This intimate moment is where the dish truly comes together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness. Your Marry Me Salmon Recipe is now ready to wow anyone lucky enough to enjoy it!
How to Serve Marry Me Salmon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the perfect finishing touch to add a pop of green and freshness that balances the creamy sauce. For a little extra flair, consider adding thin lemon slices or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines when paired with sides that complement the richness of the salmon. Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic butter asparagus, or a simple arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette work beautifully. The goal is to add texture and freshness without overpowering the main attraction.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this charismatic salmon atop a bed of fluffy rice or buttery pasta to soak up the incredible sauce. For a dinner party, plate each fillet individually with sauce artfully drizzled around it, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch that feels truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Marry Me Salmon Recipe keeps best when transferred to an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator promptly. Try to enjoy within 2 days to savor the freshest flavors and maintain the velvety texture of the sauce and salmon.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked salmon, the creamy sauce’s texture may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, package the salmon and sauce tightly in a freezer-safe container, and consume within one month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the salmon gently on the stovetop in a covered pan over low heat to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of cream or broth can revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the texture intact, making every bite taste almost as good as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon works well as long as it is fully thawed before cooking. Be sure to pat the fillets dry to ensure a nice sear and avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What can I substitute for chicken broth if I want a pescatarian version?
Vegetable broth or seafood stock are great alternatives that keep the dish flavorful while accommodating dietary preferences.
Is the red pepper flakes spice level adjustable?
Absolutely! The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your heat tolerance, even left out altogether if you prefer a milder sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a creamy non-dairy milk, and use a vegan parmesan alternative to keep it creamy and delicious without dairy.
How long does this recipe take to prepare and cook?
The entire Marry Me Salmon Recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Salmon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. With its blend of seared salmon and dreamy, flavorful sauce, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends or simply elevate your own dinner routine. I encourage you to give it a try — once you do, it might just become your new favorite weeknight indulgence that you’ll want to share over and over!
Print
Marry Me Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Marry Me Salmon is a luscious and easy-to-make skillet dish featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets smothered in a creamy sun-dried tomato and parmesan sauce with aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning. This flavorful recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet approachable. The creamy sauce balances the richness of the salmon, while a touch of red pepper flakes adds an optional subtle heat, finished with fresh parsley for brightness.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the Salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing its aroma.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the broth simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue simmering for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Combine Salmon and Sauce: Return the cooked salmon fillets back to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the salmon and let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes so the salmon warms through and absorbs some of the sauce flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- To ensure the salmon cooks evenly, use fillets of similar size and thickness.
- If sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are not available, rehydrate dry ones in warm water before chopping.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes amount to your preferred spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- This recipe pairs well with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast, respectively.
