This Marry Me Salmon is a delicious dish that features tender salmon fillets topped with a rich, creamy tomato herb sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
The sauce is so tasty that you might just want to eat it with a spoon! I like to serve it with rice or pasta, soaking up every bit of that creamy goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or even chicken breasts for a different twist. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a rich flavor. If you can’t find them, diced fresh tomatoes can work in a pinch, but they won’t be as intense in flavor. Canned tomatoes can also be used; just drain them well.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute half-and-half or a dairy-free milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch for thickening. Just be cautious with cooking times to avoid curdling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic works best for a nice flavor boost. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a quick substitute, but the taste will be less fresh.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can be tricky; the goal is to have moist, tender fish without overcooking it. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfect every time:
- Start with room temperature salmon to ensure even cooking.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the salmon—this forms a nice crust.
- Aim to cook it for 4-5 minutes on each side. You can check for doneness; the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have a slightly translucent center.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even more tender.
These tips and substitutions can help you customize the recipe to your taste and ensure a delicious outcome! Enjoy your cooking!
Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Tomato Herb Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or 1 tablespoon fresh mixed herbs (such as thyme, parsley, oregano), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes from start to finish, giving you a quick yet impressive meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Salmon
Begin by seasoning both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the fish and prepares it for cooking.
2. Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear each side until golden brown and just cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add Tomatoes and Herbs
Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and the herbs you’ve chosen. Stir everything together and cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to mingle.
5. Create the Sauce
Now, pour in the chicken broth or white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits that may be stuck. This will add depth to your sauce.
6. Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking while stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Pay attention to avoid boiling it; a gentle simmer is what you’re aiming for.
7. Combine and Heat Through
Return the cooked salmon to the skillet, carefully placing it back in the pan. Spoon the sauce over the fillets and let everything simmer gently for another 2 minutes to heat through.
8. Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle fresh chopped thyme or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of mashed potatoes or pasta, making sure to include plenty of that creamy sauce. Enjoy your lovely Marry Me Salmon!
This recipe is bound to impress anyone you share it with. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in a sealed bag in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may slightly differ.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
What Should I Serve with Marry Me Salmon?
This delicious salmon pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter meal, you could also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
