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. Made in under 30 minutes, this easy yet elegant recipe is perfect for a special date night, dinner party, or a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat.

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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 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
• On a Bed of Lemony Greens
• Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
• Served with Crusty Bread
• Paired with Quinoa Salad
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon
• Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Marry Me Salmon
• Reheating Marry Me Salmon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Marry Me Salmon?
• How can I customize Marry Me Salmon?
• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
• What sides pair well with Marry Me Salmon?
• Is Marry Me Salmon healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy an impressive meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy sauce brings out the best in salmon, making each bite unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights or casual family dinners, this dish fits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and nutrients, salmon is not just delicious but also good for you.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables to the sauce for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking your Marry Me Salmon, gather the necessary tools to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Cooking spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and creating the rich sauce that complements the salmon.
• Baking Dish: A must-have for oven-baking the salmon while allowing it to absorb all the flavors from the sauce.
• Cooking Spatula: Perfect for flipping or serving without breaking apart the delicate salmon fillets.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

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

For the 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

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) to prepare for baking the salmon.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Drizzle with olive oil. Then season generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and basil.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften.
4. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese, thyme, and basil. Stir until smooth and creamy; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Place seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over each fillet. Bake in preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and top with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your delightful Marry Me Salmon!

How to Serve Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your meal truly special.

With Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy and buttery, garlic mashed potatoes complement the salmon’s richness and soak up the luscious cream sauce.

On a Bed of Lemony Greens

• Fresh greens with a hint of lemon add brightness and balance, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and texture, creating a beautiful plate while offering healthy nutrients.

Served with Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite satisfying.

Paired with Quinoa Salad

• A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs and vegetables provides a nutritious side that contrasts well with the creamy dish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving for an aromatic finish that elevates the presentation.

How to Perfect Marry Me Salmon

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

• Choose fresh salmon: Opt for high-quality, fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Pat dry thoroughly: Make sure to pat the salmon fillets dry before seasoning; this helps achieve a nice sear when baking.
• Control cooking time: Keep an eye on the salmon while it bakes; cook until it flakes easily but is not overdone.
• Customize the sauce: Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like capers or spinach to the sun-dried tomato cream sauce for added flavor.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance all other flavors in the dish, making it even more delicious.
• Let it rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps lock in moisture and improves texture.

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Best Side Dishes for Marry Me Salmon

Pairing Marry Me Salmon with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some top choices:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic amplify the dish’s richness and provide comfort.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Tender-crisp asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a healthy crunch that balances out the creaminess.
3. Lemon Herb Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with fresh herbs and lemon zest offers brightness that pairs well with salmon’s flavor profile.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli is a nutritious option that adds color and freshness without overpowering the main dish.
5. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad mixed with veggies creates a delightful side with texture and subtle flavors.
6. Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach dressed in garlic provides a nutritious green element that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
7. Grilled Zucchini – Grilled zucchini brings out natural sweetness while adding a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with Marry Me Salmon.
8. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as a light base that absorbs all the delicious flavors from the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Marry Me Salmon can be a delightful experience, but several common mistakes can detract from its deliciousness.

• Using cold salmon: Always start with salmon at room temperature. Bringing it out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking allows for even cooking.
• Overcooking the fish: Salmon cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to avoid dryness. The fish should flake easily when done.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. Seasoning enhances flavor, so be generous but balanced.
• Neglecting the sauce: A great sauce makes this dish shine. Ensure you simmer it until slightly thickened for the best taste.
• Not garnishing: Presentation matters! A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only looks good but adds freshness to the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Marry Me Salmon

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Marry Me Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and reheat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marry Me Salmon?

Marry Me Salmon is a creamy and flavorful dish made with salmon fillets and a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce. It’s perfect for special occasions or date nights.

How can I customize Marry Me Salmon?

You can customize this recipe by adding different herbs like dill or tarragon or substituting the sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.

What sides pair well with Marry Me Salmon?

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

Is Marry Me Salmon healthy?

Yes! It features lean salmon and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet while savoring its rich flavors!

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Salmon is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings elegance to any dining table. Its versatility allows you to experiment with flavors and sides, making it suitable for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Give this creamy delight a try, and don’t hesitate to make it your own!