Description
Marry Me Salmon is a rich and flavorful skillet-cooked salmon dish featuring a creamy sundried tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and parmesan cheese. This elegant yet easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering tender, seared salmon fillets smothered in a luscious sauce that balances heat and creaminess.
Ingredients
Salmon and Seasoning
- 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
Sauce
- 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 (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to create a well-blended seasoning mix.
- Season the salmon: Take half of the seasoning mixture and rub it thoroughly into both sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sear the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets flesh-side down and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté garlic and sundried tomatoes: Lower the heat to low and add the minced garlic and chopped sundried tomatoes to the same skillet. Optionally, add a splash of sun dried tomato oil if available. Sauté gently for 1-2 minutes to release flavors.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in the chicken stock and scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen browned bits, infusing the sauce with deep flavor.
- Add cream, cheese, and remaining seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, freshly shredded parmesan cheese, and the remaining half of the seasoning blend until well combined.
- Simmer the sauce: Increase heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Adjust salt and pepper to taste as needed.
- Return salmon to skillet: Place the seared salmon back into the skillet, spooning the thickened sauce over the fillets. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, depending on preferred doneness—3 minutes for medium, 5 minutes for well done.
- Serve: Plate the salmon with sauce spooned over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Removing the skin from salmon ensures a smooth sauce coating.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry; monitor doneness closely during final cooking.
- The sundried tomato oil adds extra flavor and richness but is optional if unavailable.
- Use freshly shredded parmesan for best melting and flavor integration.
- Simmering the sauce allows it to develop a thick, creamy texture perfect for coating the salmon.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
