Marry Me Salmon
If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also guaranteed to impress, then look no further than Marry Me Salmon. This delightful recipe features succulent salmon fillets, perfectly seared and enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s dotted with sun-dried tomatoes and a hint of lemon. It’s a meal that’s perfect for romantic dinners, special occasions, or even just a weeknight treat. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that may just have you saying “I do” to this dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Marry Me Salmon is the kind of recipe that marries flavor with ease. The combination of buttery salmon with a luxurious garlic cream sauce makes for a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s not just a feast for your taste buds but also a visual delight. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a loved one or treating yourself, this dish is sure to make hearts flutter.
Ingredient List
- 4 skinless salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan, grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Recommended Tools
- Skillet: A good-quality skillet is essential for searing the salmon and making the sauce.
- Spatula: Use a spatula to flip the salmon without breaking it.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key to achieving the perfect sauce.
- Whisk: A whisk will help in blending the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Marry Me Salmon: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a perfect sear. Season both sides with olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, Kosher salt, and cracked black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, gently place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Cream
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth and then pour in ½ cup of heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Step 5: Flavor the Sauce
Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the seared salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another minute to heat through.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the Marry Me Salmon to plates, drizzling with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and watch the magic happen!
Substitutions by Diet
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan.
- If gluten-free, replace flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Salmon can be swapped with chicken breasts or tofu for a different protein choice.
What Not to Do
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the salmon; this can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Avoid overcooking the salmon, as it can become dry. Aim for a slightly pink center.
- Don’t skip the lemon zest; it adds a bright flavor that elevates the dish.
- Be careful not to add too much salt initially; you can always adjust after tasting.
Prep Ahead & Store
Marry Me Salmon is best served fresh; however, you can prepare some components ahead of time. The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove before adding the seared salmon. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the flavor and texture.
Ask the Chef
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Marry Me Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The best way to check doneness is to use a fork to gently flake the salmon at its thickest part. It should be opaque and flake easily. An internal temperature of 145°F is ideal for cooked salmon.
Can I make this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
While Marry Me Salmon is best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it just before serving. Sear the salmon just before guests arrive for the best texture.
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the tools and knowledge to create Marry Me Salmon, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe is designed to impress and tantalize, making it perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat for yourself. With its blend of flavors and elegant presentation, you’ll surely find that this dish earns a special place in your recipe rotation. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to fall in love with Marry Me Salmon!
Marry Me Salmon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a perfect sear. Season both sides with olive oil, dried Italian seasoning, Kosher salt, and cracked black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, gently place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour, whisking continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of chicken broth and then pour in ½ cup of heavy cream. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of drained sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the seared salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another minute to heat through.
- Transfer the Marry Me Salmon to plates, drizzling with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and watch the magic happen!
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan.
- If gluten-free, replace flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
- Salmon can be swapped with chicken breasts or tofu for a different protein choice.
