Marry Me Salmon

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. Made in under 30 minutes, this easy yet elegant recipe is perfect for a special date night, dinner party, or a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salmon
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Marry Me Salmon
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Season the Salmon
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Bake the Salmon
• Step 5: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Marry Me Salmon
• With Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Over Lemon Herb Rice
• Accompanied by Roasted Asparagus
• Topped with Fresh Greens Salad
• With Crusty Bread
• Paired with Sautéed Spinach
• How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Salmon
• Reheating Marry Me Salmon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Marry Me Salmon?
• How long does it take to make Marry Me Salmon?
• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
• What sides pair well with Marry Me Salmon?
• Can I customize the cream sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Sauce: The sun-dried tomato cream sauce elevates the salmon to new heights with its rich and savory notes.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sauce and fresh parsley make for an eye-catching dish that will wow your guests.
• Healthy Option: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Marry Me Salmon, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will help you prepare this delightful dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the garlic and sauce without burning.
• Baking Dish: Choosing the right baking dish allows for proper heat circulation while the salmon cooks in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

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

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Marry Me Salmon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. Then:
1. Drizzle with olive oil.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Sprinkle thyme and basil on top.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

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

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish:
1. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over each fillet.
2. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through; check that it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your Marry Me Salmon with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot alongside your favorite sides like rice or roasted veggies. Enjoy!

How to Serve Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Serving this dish elegantly enhances the dining experience and makes it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more special.

With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the rich cream sauce, creating a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the salmon.

Over Lemon Herb Rice

• Fluffy rice infused with lemon and herbs brings brightness to the plate, balancing the richness of the Marry Me Salmon beautifully.

Accompanied by Roasted Asparagus

• Smoky roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and fresh flavor, making it a nutritious side that enhances the overall meal.

Topped with Fresh Greens Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy salmon.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the luscious sauce. It’s an irresistible way to enjoy every last bit!

Paired with Sautéed Spinach

• Quickly sautéed spinach in olive oil and garlic offers a nutritious option that cooks up in minutes, adding color and flavor to your plate.

How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon

To ensure your Marry Me Salmon turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips for success.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for high-quality, fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright, vibrant color and a fresh smell.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your salmon while it bakes. Cook just until it flakes easily with a fork to maintain its tender quality.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The cream and Parmesan cheese used should be of good quality, as they significantly impact the sauce’s flavor.
• Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust herbs like thyme and basil according to your taste preferences or try adding chili flakes for some heat.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let your salmon rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on freshly chopped parsley or other herbs as garnish. They add color and freshness that elevate the dish visually and taste-wise.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon

Pairing sides with Marry Me Salmon can enhance your dining experience by balancing flavors and textures. Here are some fantastic options that will complement this exquisite dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes mixed with garlic provide a rich base that goes hand-in-hand with the creamy sauce.
2. Lemon Herb Rice: Lightly flavored rice gives a refreshing touch that contrasts well with the richness of the salmon.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and earthiness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
4. Sauteed Green Beans: Bright green beans sautéed with garlic bring color and freshness alongside the salmon.
5. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower bake introduces an indulgent element that’s still low-carb.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers both nutrition and texture alongside your main dish.
7. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous studded with nuts and dried fruits adds sweetness and crunch that complements Marry Me Salmon splendidly.
8. Herbed Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in herbs creates a delightful contrast in temperature while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Marry Me Salmon can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always season your fillets generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold overcooking: Overcooking the salmon can make it dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for flakiness at 15 minutes.
• Bold sauce consistency: Adding too much liquid to the sauce can result in a watery dish. Ensure you follow the measurements closely to achieve a creamy texture.
• Bold skillet temperature: Cooking garlic at too high a heat may burn it. Sauté garlic over medium heat until fragrant, not browned.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using low-quality sun-dried tomatoes can affect flavor. Opt for good-quality, oil-packed tomatoes for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the salmon is cooled to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Marry Me Salmon

• For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Marry Me Salmon

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to keep it moist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Salmon?

Marry Me Salmon is a delicious recipe that features salmon fillets topped with a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, making it perfect for special occasions.

How long does it take to make Marry Me Salmon?

This recipe takes just under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking and flavor absorption from the sauce.

What sides pair well with Marry Me Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad.

Can I customize the cream sauce?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like dill or tarragon or incorporate additional vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Salmon is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an elegant gathering, this dish impresses every time. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your taste preferences!

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