How to Make Marry Me Salmon
Making this dish is simple, yet the final result is a restaurant-worthy meal that’s creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. Follow these steps to bring it all together:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Return the Salmon to the Pan
Place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the salmon to fully cook and absorb the creamy flavors.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
How Long to Cook Salmon
The cooking time for salmon depends on its thickness and the method used. To ensure perfectly cooked, tender salmon, follow these general guidelines:
- Pan-Seared Salmon – Sear for 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat. The fish should have a golden crust and flake easily with a fork.
- Oven-Baked Salmon – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. A thicker fillet may take up to 18 minutes.
- Internal Temperature – The salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) for medium-rare or 135-145°F (57-63°C) for well done.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can easily store and reheat them for another delicious meal. Follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator – Place leftover salmon in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer – Store in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm up leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. You can also reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Salmon
For the most flavorful and perfectly cooked salmon, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Salmon – Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it has a richer flavor and firmer texture than farmed salmon.
- Don’t Overcook – Salmon continues cooking slightly after being removed from heat, so take it off just before it reaches your desired doneness.
- Balance the Sauce – Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If the sauce is too rich, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Pair with the Right Sides – Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy sauce.
Save this recipe for later and enjoy a dish so good, it just might lead to a proposal!
