Marry Me Salmon – A Rich and Flavorful Dish for Special Occasions

Introduction

If you’re looking for an elegant and indulgent dish to impress your loved one, Marry Me Salmon is the perfect choice. Inspired by the popular “Marry Me Chicken,” this dish features succulent salmon fillets bathed in a creamy, garlicky sun-dried tomato sauce infused with parmesan and aromatic herbs. The result is a restaurant-quality meal that is both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and indulgent: The creamy sauce with parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes adds a luxurious touch.
• Easy to make: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Perfect for special occasions: Whether it’s a date night, anniversary, or celebration, this dish is sure to impress.
• Versatile serving options: Pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, per preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
8. Sprinkle in parmesan cheese, oregano, and basil. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

9. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
10. Let the salmon simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Variations

• Spicy twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for parmesan.
• Extra veggies: Stir in baby spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
• Protein swap: Try this sauce with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different take.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my salmon is cooked?

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

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best type of salmon to use?

Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor, while farmed salmon tends to be milder and fattier. Both work well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before adding the salmon.

What sides go best with Marry Me Salmon?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are all excellent choices.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk won’t thicken the sauce as well, but you can use half-and-half or mix milk with a bit of cornstarch.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that all ingredients (such as broth and parmesan) are gluten-free.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes won’t provide the same depth of flavor, but you can use cherry tomatoes for a lighter variation.

What’s a good wine pairing for this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly while adding the dairy ingredients.

Conclusion

Marry Me Salmon is a decadent and flavorful dish perfect for a romantic dinner or special gathering. With its creamy, garlicky sauce and rich, tender salmon, it’s a meal that is sure to impress. Whether paired with pasta, potatoes, or vegetables, this dish will have everyone coming back for more. Try it out for your next special occasion and see why it’s love at first bite!

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