Print

Marry Me Salmon Recipe

4.2 from 41 reviews

This Marry Me Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets simmered in a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato Parmesan sauce. With garlic, red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and fresh herbs for garnish, it’s an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, as preferred)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (packed in oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 tbsp butter

Garnish

  • 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down if they have skin. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
  4. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes to release their flavor into the butter and garlic.
  5. Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; this adds depth to the sauce.
  6. Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors.
  8. Combine Salmon and Sauce: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spoon some sauce over the top, and let them simmer gently in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a bright finish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the dish pescatarian-friendly.
  • Make sure not to overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add richness; if using dry, rehydrate them in warm water before chopping.

Keywords: Marry Me Salmon, creamy salmon recipe, sun-dried tomato salmon, Parmesan salmon, easy salmon dinner, seared salmon with cream sauce