Introduction to Marry Me Salmon
Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and dinner needs to be on the table in less than an hour. I know that feeling all too well! Enter Marry Me Salmon—a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with creamy, flavorful goodness. This salmon recipe is perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal after a long day. With easy ingredients and simple steps, you’ll find yourself falling in love with this dish. Trust me, it might just earn a spot on your family’s “favorites” list!
Why You’ll Love This Marry Me Salmon
This Marry Me Salmon is a lifesaver for busy families. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The luscious creamy sauce, combined with juicy salmon, creates a flavor explosion that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to sway even the pickiest eaters. What’s not to love about a meal that brings everyone to the table, satisfied and happy? Trust me; this dish is a total winner!
Ingredients for Marry Me Salmon
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference in creating a delicious Marry Me Salmon. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Salmon fillets: Fresh salmon is ideal, but you can use frozen too. Just make sure it’s thawed well before cooking.
- Olive oil: Adds a rich flavor and helps with cooking. You can substitute it with avocado oil for a different twist.
- Dried basil: This herb brings a subtle sweetness. If you have fresh basil, feel free to use it for an even brighter taste.
- Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick. Fresh garlic can also be used if you prefer.
- Onion powder: This adds depth to the flavor. It’s a pure convenience ingredient, but don’t underestimate its contribution!
- Dried thyme: Another herb that complements salmon beautifully. It adds an earthy touch that just fits right.
- Red pepper flakes: These provide a hint of heat. Adjust them to your spice level; you can even omit them if desired.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning. Go for sea salt if you’re feeling fancy, and fresh cracked pepper for that extra bite.
- Chicken stock: This forms the base of your creamy sauce. Using unsalted chicken stock allows you to control the dish’s saltiness.
- Heavy cream: For that luscious, velvety sauce! If looking for a lighter option, try coconut milk or any plant-based cream.
- Sundried tomatoes: They add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness. You can find them packed in oil or dry; both work great.
- Freshly shredded parmesan cheese: This cheese enhances the creaminess. Feel free to swap it for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh basil: For garnish and an aromatic finish. This is the cherry on top that brightens the entire dish.
Those are the ingredients you’ll need for this wonderful Marry Me Salmon dish! Exact quantities are provided at the bottom of the article if you like to keep it handy for printing.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Making this Marry Me Salmon is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish that tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant.
Step 1: Prepare the Seasonings
Start by gathering all your seasonings in a small bowl.
Add the dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Mix them together thoroughly. This seasoning blend adds a burst of flavor, and the aroma will make your kitchen feel inviting!
Step 2: Season the Salmon
Take your salmon fillets and sprinkle half of the prepared seasoning mix evenly over them.
Rub the seasoning into both sides gently but firmly.
Every bite should be flavorful, and this step ensures that every morsel of fish is coated in deliciousness!
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned salmon flesh side down in the pan.
Sear each side for about 5 minutes until it develops a lovely golden brown crust.
Don’t forget to watch it closely; you want a nice sear without overcooking!
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
After the salmon is seared to perfection, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Sauté them over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
This step infuses the pan with those wonderful flavors that will elevate your dish!
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Now, it’s time to deglaze the pan.
Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon.
You want to lift those tasty brown bits that stuck to the bottom.
These add a depth of flavor that makes all the difference!
Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once you’ve deglazed the pan, add heavy cream, freshly shredded parmesan cheese, and the remaining seasoning mix.
Stir to combine everything until it thickens slightly.
This creamy sauce is what dreams are made of! It coats the salmon beautifully.
Step 7: Simmer and Finish Cooking
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
You want it to thicken up and become rich and luscious.
After the sauce has reached your desired consistency, return the seared salmon to the skillet.
Baste the fish with the creamy sauce and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Step 8: Serve the Dish
Finally, it’s time to serve this beautiful Marry Me Salmon!
Plate it up and spoon the sauce generously over each salmon fillet.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil.
This final touch adds color and a burst of freshness. Enjoy your masterpiece—you’ve earned it!
Tips for Success
- Always use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to prep your ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly.
- Taste the sauce before serving! Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Keep an eye on the salmon while cooking; it can cook quickly!
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness: 145°F is ideal.
Equipment Needed for Marry Me Salmon
- Large skillet: A non-stick pan works great. If you don’t have one, a regular skillet will do; just be careful to prevent sticking.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the pan. A silicone spatula is a good alternative.
- Meat thermometer: For ensuring perfect salmon doneness, but it’s optional if you prefer to gauge by sight.
Variations of Marry Me Salmon
- Herb-Infused: Swap out the dried herbs for fresh ones! Use fresh basil, thyme, or parsley to give your dish a vibrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra spicy version that packs a punch!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace salmon with pan-seared tofu or chickpeas for a satisfying plant-based alternative.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the creamy sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a tasty, low-carb meal.
- Asian Twist: Incorporate soy sauce or sesame oil into the sauce mixture for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Marry Me Salmon
- Perfect Pairing: Serve with buttery garlic mashed potatoes or creamy risotto for a hearty meal.
- Fresh Greens: A crisp, mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon.
- Wine Match: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or rosé elevates the dining experience.
- Presentation: Arrange the salmon on a bed of sautéed spinach for an elegant touch.
FAQs about Marry Me Salmon
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the salmon is thoroughly thawed before seasoning and cooking. Fresh salmon will always give the best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.
How spicy is the Marry Me Salmon?
The level of spice depends on how much red pepper flakes you use. If you prefer a milder dish, you can cut down on the flakes or leave them out entirely!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to enjoy the dish again.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream. For the cheese, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.
What sides pair well with Marry Me Salmon?
This delicious salmon dish complements various sides perfectly! Consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a busy mom or an on-the-go professional, Marry Me Salmon is here to save the day. This dish brings rich flavors and creamy delight to the table, making every bite feel like a cozy hug. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for a special occasion. As you savor this meal with your loved ones, you’ll find joy in the simple moments spent together. With just a few ingredients and a bit of technique, you’ve created something truly magical. Get ready; your family will be falling in love with this dish time and again!
Print
Marry Me Salmon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and creamy salmon dish packed with flavor that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3–4 salmon fillets, skin removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 3/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken stock, unsalted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup chopped sundried tomatoes
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Add the seasonings to a small bowl – dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Combine thoroughly.
- Add half of the seasoning mix to the salmon filets. Rub it into both sides thoroughly.
- Next add the olive oil to a large skillet or pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned salmon flesh side down first. Sear on each side for about 5 minutes. Once seared, remove from the pan and set aside.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped sun dried tomatoes to the same skillet. Optional: Add a splash of the sun dried tomato oil as well. Turn the heat to low and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chicken stock and deglaze the bottom of the pan, scraping up any brown bits.
- Next add in the heavy cream, fresh parmesan cheese, and remaining seasoning mix. Combine thoroughly.
- Raise the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Add extra salt and pepper if needed.
- Place the salmon back into the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the salmon. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, depending on how you like your salmon cooked. Three minutes will be more medium and five will be more well done.
- Serve and enjoy! Garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh salmon.
- You can substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
- Adjust the level of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
