“Is there anything more romantic than cooking for someone you love? When I stumbled upon the perfect recipe for Marry Me Salmon, I knew I had to try it. This dish not only brings elegance to your dinner table but also ensures you can whip up an impressive meal with ease, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its buttery garlic sauce mingling with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil, each bite feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with protein, making it ideal for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. Trust me, your loved ones will be begging for the recipe! So, are you ready to create a culinary masterpiece that could lead to “I do”? Let’s dive in!” Why Is Marry Me Salmon So Special? Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy garlic butter sauce and sun-dried tomatoes creates a taste sensation that will wow your palate. Easy Elegance: This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Healthy Indulgence: With its gluten-free, low-carb composition, you can enjoy a rich meal that aligns with your health goals. Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a complete dining experience. Don’t forget to check out my Cajun Salmon Lemon or Baked Salmon Pasta for more delightful salmon recipes! Family Favorite: This is a dish that everyone will love, making it your go-to for family dinners and special occasions alike. Marry Me Salmon Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to make this delightful dish! For the Salmon Salmon Fillets – Use skin-on fillets for that crispy finish and tender, flaky interior. For the Sauce Olive Oil – Adds flavor and is essential for searing; feel free to substitute with a light, neutral oil. Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust to personal taste. Pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper has a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground. Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic lends an aromatic quality; don’t underestimate its impact! Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Provides richness and creaminess; coconut milk makes a great dairy-free alternative. Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Adds depth to the flavor; you can swap for vegetable broth if preferred. Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated) – Infuses umami and creaminess; for a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast. Red Pepper Flakes (1 teaspoon, optional) – Adds a hint of heat; feel free to omit for a milder flavor. Sun-Dried Tomatoes (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Offers a sweet-tart flavor; fresh tomatoes can be used when in season. Fresh Basil (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Brightens the dish with its aromatic freshness; parsley is a nice substitute if needed. Juice of 1 Lemon – Balances out the richness; consider adding some zest for an extra burst of flavor. With these ingredients for your Marry Me Salmon, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only loving but also truly irresistible! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Marry Me Salmon Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that the oven reaches the desired temperature for finishing the Marry Me Salmon perfectly. While the oven heats up, prepare to gather your ingredients and get your cooking space ready for an enjoyable experience. Step 2: Heat the Skillet In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, indicating it’s ready for cooking. Meanwhile, season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper, ensuring both sides are well coated to enhance the flavor as you sear them. Step 3: Sear the Salmon Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the hot skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until the fillets turn a glorious golden brown. Flip the fillets gently and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside. This initial searing step creates a beautiful crust for the Marry Me Salmon. Step 4: Sauté the Garlic Reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not burnt. This aromatic moment infuses the oil with garlic goodness, which will serve as the perfect base for your creamy garlic butter sauce. Step 5: Create the Sauce Base Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The sauce will begin to thicken slightly, and you’ll notice the flavors melding beautifully as you prepare for the cheese addition. Step 6: Add Flavorful Ingredients Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if using, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and the juice of 1 lemon. Simmer everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce is luxuriously creamy and begins to cling to the back of your spoon, creating a rich coating for the salmon. Step 7: Return the Salmon Place the seared salmon back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over each fillet for added flavor. This step ensures that every bite of your Marry Me Salmon is enriched with that creamy garlic sauce. Once everything is nestled together, it’s time to transfer the skillet to the oven. Step 8: Bake Until Perfect Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know the salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque. This gentle baking process keeps the fish moist while the sauce finishes developing its flavors. Step 9: Garnish and Serve Once out of the oven, garnish your Marry Me Salmon with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately for the best experience, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful presentation alongside the rich and creamy sauce that awaits them. What to Serve with Marry Me Salmon Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this exquisite dish. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they provide a comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the luscious sauce. Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors and slight crunch of roasted asparagus balance the creaminess of the salmon, adding a touch of elegance. Crisp Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette brighten the palate, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich Marry Me Salmon. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for sweetness! Quinoa Pilaf: Its nutty flavor and fluffy texture offer a healthy alternative to rice, soaking up the delicious sauce and adding a wholesome touch to the meal. Lemon Herb Rice: A zesty, fragrant side that brings brightness and completes the meal while highlighting the lemony notes in the dish. Savory Spinach Salad: Pair with sliced strawberries and a poppy seed dressing to add a sweet and tangy complement to the dish. Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the meal, making each bite even more enchanting. Choose any of these pairings to create a memorable dining experience that will leave your loved ones yearning for more! Make Ahead Options Preparing your Marry Me Salmon in advance can save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can season the salmon fillets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, the creamy garlic butter sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. To keep the sauce’s creamy texture, allow it to cool completely before transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from becoming grainy. Simply place the seared salmon in the skillet with the warmed sauce, bake for about 8-10 minutes, and you’ll have a delectable meal that tastes just as fresh and satisfying as if it were made the same day! Expert Tips for Marry Me Salmon Proper Searing: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon for a golden, crispy skin. This prevents the fish from sticking and enhances the flavor. Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your salmon while baking; overcooking can lead to dryness. Check it at the 8-minute mark to ensure perfect doneness. Sauce Consistency: Simmer the sauce on low heat to avoid graininess. A gentle simmer allows the heavy cream to create a smooth and creamy texture ideal for Marry Me Salmon. Season Wisely: Taste and adjust the seasoning in the sauce before adding the salmon. This ensures every bite has balanced flavors. Garnish Freely: Fresh basil not only adds color but amplifies flavor. Don’t skip this step to make your dish visually stunning and aromatic! Marry Me Salmon: Delicious Variations! Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Marry Me Salmon even more special! Lemon Herb: Add herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of freshness; the citrus complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Spicy Kick: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha on top before serving for those who crave some heat. Every bite will have an exhilarating zing! Creamy Spinach: Mix sautéed spinach into the creamy sauce for added nutrients and a pop of color. It not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also amps up the flavor! Dairy-Free Swap: Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. The results are just as indulgent! Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth. Their rich texture pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the sauce! Roasted Peppers: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers to impart a sweeter, smoky flavor. They add a fantastic twist to the dish! Garlic Lovers: Boost the garlic flavor by adding roasted garlic cloves into the sauce. It brings an even richer, sweeter allure to the creamy base. To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a crisp salad or my Baked Salmon Pasta for a fantastic meal! How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Salmon Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the creamy texture of the sauce while keeping the salmon fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid Room Temperature: For food safety, never leave cooked salmon at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Always refrigerate promptly to keep it safe and delicious! Marry Me Salmon Recipe FAQs How do I select the best salmon fillets? Absolutely! When choosing salmon, look for fillets that are brightly colored, with a firm texture and even thickness. Skin-on fillets are great for achieving a crispy finish while keeping the fish moist. Avoid any salmon with dark spots or a fishy smell, as these are signs of aging or poor quality. How long can I store Marry Me Salmon in the fridge? Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the creaminess of the sauce without overcooking the salmon again. Can I freeze Marry Me Salmon? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, double wrap it to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on low heat. What if my sauce becomes grainy while cooking? If your sauce gets grainy, don’t worry! This often happens if it’s cooked too fast. Simply lower the heat and whisk in a splash of cream to smooth it out, allowing it to simmer gently. Make sure to avoid boiling it vigorously. Is Marry Me Salmon suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, indeed! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially when using gluten-free chicken broth options. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a high-protein meal without compromising dietary needs. Can I use other herbs or ingredients in Marry Me Salmon? Of course! Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or tarragon for unique flavors. You can also substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers or add sautéed spinach for some added greens and nutrition in your dish! Marry Me Salmon: Irresistibly Creamy & Flavor-Packed Delight Marry Me Salmon is an elegantly creamy dish that will impress your loved ones with its flavor-packed combination of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 filletsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon4 fillets Salmon Fillets Use skin-on fillets for that crispy finish.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to substitute with a light, neutral oil.1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to personal taste.1 teaspoon Pepper Freshly cracked black pepper enhances flavor.4 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic lends an aromatic quality.1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut milk makes a great dairy-free alternative.1/2 cup Chicken Broth Can be swapped for vegetable broth.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; adds a hint of heat.2 tablespoons Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped; fresh tomatoes can be used in season.2 tablespoons Fresh Basil Chopped; parsley is a nice substitute.1 unit Juice of Lemon Balances out the richness. Equipment Oven-safe skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.Sear the salmon fillets skin-side up in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove salmon and set aside.Reduce heat to medium and sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for about 1 minute until fragrant.Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine and simmering for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and juice of 1 lemon. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes.Return the seared salmon to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each fillet, and transfer to the oven.Bake for 8-10 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1filletCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 35gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 125mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure your skillet is hot enough for a golden sear. Keep an eye on salmon to avoid overcooking. Adjust seasoning to your liking and garnish with fresh basil for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
