Why It’s Called “Marry Me Salmon”
Marry Me Salmon is a standout among seafood dish recipes, earning its name for its irresistible, proposal-worthy flavors. With tender, flaky salmon bathed in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan, this dish combines elegance and simplicity. Whether you’re crafting a romantic dinner or an easy family meal, this recipe is a show-stopper.
Why You’ll Love This Seafood Dish Recipe
- Rich and Indulgent Flavor: The creamy sun-dried tomato sauce delivers a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet kick.
- Quick to Prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes just 25 minutes.
- Elegant and Versatile: Its vibrant colors and gourmet flavors pair beautifully with various sides.
- Healthy Meets Decadent: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon offers nutritional benefits without sacrificing taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Great for date nights, dinner parties, or as a standout family dinner.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: ~350-400
Ingredients for Marry Me Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped, oil-packed preferred)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillets dry, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil.
2. Make the Sauce
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, simmering for 3-4 minutes to thicken.
- Mix in Parmesan, thyme, and basil, seasoning to taste.
3. Bake the Salmon
- Arrange the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the sauce evenly over the salmon.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve and Garnish
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Perfect Pairings for This Seafood Dish Recipe
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
- Grains: Serve with wild rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
- Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Bread: Use garlic bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Tips for Success
- Fresh is Best: Fresh salmon ensures optimal flavor and texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check the fillets frequently to maintain tenderness.
- Customizable Sauce: Add lemon juice, white wine, or herbs like rosemary for variety.
- Extra Sauce: Double the sauce recipe if you love having extra for sides.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon-Infused: Add lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes for heat.
- Southern Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning for a bold flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Sauté spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months, reheating gently on the stovetop or oven.
- Make-Ahead Sauce: Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.
FAQs for Seafood Dish Recipes
1. Can I use another fish?
Yes, trout, halibut, or cod are great substitutes.
2. How do I make this dairy-free?
Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
3. Can I prepare this recipe ahead?
Assemble the salmon and sauce, then bake right before serving for the freshest flavor.
Conclusion
Marry Me Salmon is a standout in seafood dish recipes, delivering a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. Its creamy sauce and perfectly baked salmon make it ideal for any occasion, from romantic dinners to casual family meals. Try this irresistible recipe today and add it to your favorite seafood collection!