Best Marry Me Salmon

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I’ve made this Best Marry Me Salmon recipe more times than I can count—and every single time, someone ends up asking for the recipe. There’s something magical about how the tender, flaky salmon blends with the rich, creamy, sun-dried tomato sauce. It’s comforting yet elegant, and honestly, it tastes like something you’d get at a fancy restaurant. But here’s the kicker: it’s incredibly easy to make in just one skillet.

This dish earned its “marry me” name because it’s just that irresistible. With a hint of garlic, a dash of herbs, and a sauce so luscious you’ll want to lick the spoon, this recipe is a total showstopper. Whether I’m cooking a romantic dinner or simply craving something soul-satisfying, this salmon always delivers. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Best Marry Me Salmon

• It’s a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes to clean.
• The creamy garlic sauce is loaded with flavor, perfect for spooning over rice, pasta, or veggies.
• Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy punch that cuts through the richness beautifully.
• It’s ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for last-minute dinner plans.
• The presentation is beautiful enough for a dinner party, yet it’s easy enough for a beginner cook.

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What Kind of Salmon Should I Use?

I always go for skinless salmon fillets, preferably fresh, but frozen and thawed fillets work fine too. Look for cuts that are firm, bright in color, and about the same size so they cook evenly. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a deeper flavor, while farm-raised is usually milder and fattier—either works, depending on your taste.

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Options for Substitutions

• Chicken breast: If you’re not into seafood, chicken breast or thighs are excellent alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time.
• Greek yogurt: To lighten the sauce, you can swap heavy cream for plain Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy twist and cuts down on fat.
• Spinach: A handful of fresh spinach stirred into the sauce adds color and nutrients.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version that still gives you a creamy texture.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes roasted in olive oil make a good sub.

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Ingredients for this Best Marry Me Salmon

• Salmon fillets: The star of the dish. Rich in omega-3s, it provides the perfect flaky texture and pairs beautifully with creamy sauces.
• Olive oil: Helps to sear the salmon and brings out its natural flavors.
• Garlic: Adds depth and a subtle kick to the creamy sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Intensely flavorful and slightly tangy, they cut through the richness of the cream and complement the salmon.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety base of the sauce that clings to each bite.
• Chicken broth: Lightens the cream and adds a savory depth.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess and a nutty, salty layer.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings harmony and depth to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to balance and highlight the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: For a burst of color and fresh finish just before serving.

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Step 1: Sear the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon, flesh-side down, for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce begins to thicken.

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Step 4: Add Seasoning

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, and adjust with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be rich and flavorful at this point.

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Step 5: Return the Salmon to the Pan

Gently nestle the seared salmon back into the skillet. Spoon some sauce over each fillet. Cover and let it simmer on low for about 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Serve hot with your choice of sides, spooning extra sauce over each serving.

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How Long to Prepare the Best Marry Me Salmon

Prep Time: The preparation is surprisingly quick. In just about 10 minutes, you can have everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Patting the salmon dry, seasoning it, and gathering your ingredients will make the cooking process seamless.

Cooking Time: The actual cooking takes around 20 minutes. Searing the salmon takes about 8 minutes total, while the sauce simmers and thickens in another 10-12 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at a delicious, restaurant-worthy dish in 30 minutes or less.

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Tips for Perfect Best Marry Me Salmon

• Use salmon fillets that are evenly sized so they cook uniformly.
• Let the salmon come to room temperature before cooking to avoid overcooking the exterior while the interior remains underdone.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If needed, sear the salmon in batches.
• Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth to lift up any flavorful bits after sautéing garlic and tomatoes.
• Let the sauce thicken just enough before adding the salmon back in, so it coats each piece beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, and overcooked salmon becomes dry. Stick to medium heat and keep an eye on the clock.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic only needs a minute or two to release its aroma—don’t walk away!
• Too much heat when simmering the cream: High heat can cause the cream to split. Keep it on medium or lower.
• Skipping the seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go, especially before returning the salmon to the sauce.
• Not letting the sauce reduce: A watery sauce won’t cling to the salmon well. Let it bubble a bit to thicken.

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What to Serve With Best Marry Me Salmon?

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Rich and buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect base for soaking up the luxurious sauce.

2. Garlic Butter Pasta

A simple side of spaghetti tossed with garlic butter complements the creamy salmon perfectly.

3. Steamed Asparagus

A fresh, green veggie like asparagus adds a crisp, clean contrast to the rich dish.

4. Herbed Rice Pilaf

Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs balances the meal and captures the sauce well.

5. Crusty Bread

Thick slices of rustic bread are perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the salmon cool to room temperature before storing to avoid excess condensation.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid drying out the salmon. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Freezing: While you can freeze it, the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If freezing, let it cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat slowly and stir well to bring the sauce back together.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you’re using a thermometer, 125–130°F is ideal for moist, medium-cooked salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Otherwise, it might not sear properly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, coconut cream, or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce ahead and reheat it gently before adding freshly cooked salmon. However, salmon is best served right after cooking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it a great option for keto diets.

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Conclusion

Best Marry Me Salmon is a dish that never fails to impress. With a luscious, herb-laced cream sauce, bursts of sun-dried tomato flavor, and perfectly seared salmon, it’s both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just treating yourself, this meal is a guaranteed winner—quick, flavorful, and totally unforgettable.

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