Savor Marry Me Salmon

This hearty Marry Me Salmon combines flaky salmon fillets with a rich, spicy sun-dried tomato cream sauce that's so good it might earn you a marriage proposal. The combination of aromatic herbs, creamy texture, and perfectly cooked salmon creates a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly simple to make in your own kitchen.

I first made this for my boyfriend on our anniversary, and the look on his face as he took the first bite was priceless. Now it's become our special occasion go-to that never fails to impress.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: Splurge on wild-caught if possible for superior flavor and texture
• Dried herbs and spices: The combination of basil, thyme, garlic powder and onion powder creates the perfect flavor foundation
• Red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle heat that balances the richness of the cream
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Look for ones packed in oil for the most intense flavor
• Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious sauce texture that clings to each bite of salmon
• Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for best melting and flavor
• Fresh basil: The bright finish that elevates the entire dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the seasoning mix:

Combine dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper in a small bowl. This custom blend is what gives the dish its signature flavor profile.

Season the salmon:

Take half of your spice mixture and thoroughly rub it into both sides of your salmon fillets. Make sure to get an even coating for consistent flavor throughout each piece.

Sear the salmon:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon flesh-side down first and let it develop a golden crust for about 5 minutes before flipping. The searing process locks in moisture and creates texture contrast.

Build the sauce foundation:

Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the same skillet, capturing all the salmon flavor left behind. A splash of the sun-dried tomato oil adds extra depth if available.

Create the sauce base:

Pour in chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan bottom. These caramelized bits contain concentrated flavor that enriches your sauce.

Develop the creamy sauce:

Add heavy cream, freshly grated parmesan, and the remaining seasoning mix, stirring to combine. Let it simmer until it thickens to a consistency that will coat the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes.

Reunite salmon with sauce:

Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the luscious sauce over each piece. The salmon will finish cooking in the sauce, absorbing flavor while remaining tender and moist.

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The sun-dried tomatoes are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once tried making it without them when I was in a pinch, and while still good, it lacked that special depth that makes people close their eyes and sigh with the first bite. Their concentrated umami flavor is what elevates this from good to proposal-worthy.

Perfect Pairings

This Marry Me Salmon naturally complements so many side dishes. I find that a simple risotto or angel hair pasta makes the perfect bed for catching extra sauce. For a lighter option, roasted asparagus or a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette creates a beautiful balance to the rich cream sauce. The goal is to let the salmon remain the star while providing complementary flavors and textures.

Make-Ahead Options

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline dinner prep. The seasoning mix can be made days in advance and stored in an airtight container. You can even pre-sear the salmon and make the sauce separately, storing both in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, add the salmon, and finish cooking. This approach is especially helpful when entertaining.

Common Questions

Many people ask if they can use salmon with skin on, and absolutely you can. Simply sear it skin-side down first until crispy, then flip. The skin provides a protective barrier that helps prevent overcooking. Another frequent question is about dairy substitutions for the cream. While nothing quite matches heavy cream's richness, full-fat coconut milk can work well for a dairy-free alternative with a slight tropical note that pairs surprisingly well with the other flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of salmon should I use?

Fresh, skinless fillets such as Atlantic or sockeye salmon work best for this dish as they hold their texture when cooked.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream as alternatives, but note that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

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

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes and a side of green vegetables like asparagus or spinach.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before adding the freshly cooked salmon fillets.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.