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. This easy yet elegant recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a special date night, dinner party, or even a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat. Its unique blend of flavors and quick preparation will leave you and your guests wanting more.

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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 Cream 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 Vegetables
• With a Fresh Green Salad
• Paired with Crusty Bread
• With Pasta Aglio e Olio
• How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Salmon
• Reheating Marry Me Salmon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Marry Me Salmon?
• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
• How do I know when my salmon is done?
• What sides go well with Marry Me Salmon?
• Can I customize this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total cooking time of just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Elegant Presentation: The creamy sauce and garnished salmon make for a stunning plate that impresses without extra effort.
• Flavor-Packed: Sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese create a rich flavor profile that complements the salmon beautifully.
• Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, from garlic mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family gathering, Marry Me Salmon suits every event.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and efficient, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the garlic and creating the creamy sauce for your Marry Me Salmon.
• Baking dish: Perfectly sized to hold the salmon fillets while they bake in the oven.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

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

For the Cream 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
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

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). This ensures that your oven is hot enough when it’s time to bake the salmon.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. Make sure both sides are well coated.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter until it begins to bubble.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until they soften.
4. Incorporate heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Finally, add Parmesan cheese along with thyme and basil. Stir continuously until everything is combined into a smooth sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place your seasoned salmon fillets into a baking dish. Pour the prepared cream sauce evenly over each fillet. Bake in preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and top with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot. Pair it with your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or roasted veggies for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy and buttery, garlic mashed potatoes make an ideal base for the rich cream sauce of Marry Me Salmon.

Over Lemon Herb Rice

• Light and zesty lemon herb rice complements the flavors of the salmon while adding a refreshing touch.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and nutrition to your plate, balancing the richness of the dish.

With a Fresh Green Salad

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

Paired with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.

With Pasta Aglio e Olio

• Simple yet flavorful pasta tossed in garlic and olive oil pairs wonderfully with Marry Me Salmon for a heartier meal.

How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon

To ensure your Marry Me Salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets yield the best flavor and texture. Look for bright color and firm flesh.
• Pat Dry Before Cooking: Patting the salmon fillets dry helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture from affecting the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your cream sauce before adding it to the salmon. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more herbs as needed.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your salmon during baking. Overcooking can lead to dry fish. Aim for 15–20 minutes depending on thickness.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step!
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve Marry Me Salmon hot right out of the oven to enjoy its creamy richness at its peak.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon

When planning your meal, pairing side dishes with Marry Me Salmon can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent suggestions that will complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with roasted garlic create a comforting side that balances the richness of the salmon.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus spears offer a crunchy texture and fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
3. Lemon Orzo Salad: A light orzo salad tossed with lemon zest and fresh herbs adds freshness and brightness alongside the rich salmon.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender glazed carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of Marry Me Salmon.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with onions and herbs adds protein and texture while keeping your meal healthy.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned lightly create an appealing side that enhances both taste and presentation.
7. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs makes for a light yet satisfying alternative.
8. Caprese Salad: This simple salad made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers brightness and acidity that pairs beautifully with salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Marry Me Salmon experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Under-seasoning the salmon: Failing to season the salmon properly can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously for a flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon too long can make it dry. Bake until it flakes easily with a fork, usually around 15-20 minutes.
• Neglecting the sauce: Skipping or rushing the cream sauce can result in a less rich flavor. Take your time to simmer and blend the ingredients for optimal taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap or old ingredients can compromise the dish’s quality. Always choose fresh salmon and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and cream.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the salmon immediately can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving for better moisture retention.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Marry Me Salmon

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marry Me Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Salmon?

Marry Me Salmon is a delicious dish featuring salmon fillets topped with a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s perfect for special occasions or date nights.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to achieve a similar texture and flavor as sun-dried tomatoes.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What sides go well with Marry Me Salmon?

This dish pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs like dill or switch up the cheese based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Salmon is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough for various occasions. Its luxurious flavor makes it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. Customize it with your favorite herbs or sides to make it truly your own!

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