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Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon

Marry Me Salmon is a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy salmon dish that’s so delicious it just might inspire a marriage proposal. Tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection, then simmered in a creamy sun-dried tomato Parmesan sauce packed with garlic and herbs. It’s elegant enough for a special dinner but easy enough for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 salmon fillets, skin removed

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme

  • ¾ teaspoon red pepper flakes

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 cup unsalted chicken stock

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ⅓ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

  • ½ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.

  2. Rub half of the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon (flesh-side down) and sear for about 5 minutes per side. Remove salmon and set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to low. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  5. Pour in chicken stock and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.

  6. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and remaining seasoning mixture. Stir well.

  7. Increase heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

  8. Return salmon to the skillet and spoon sauce over the fillets. Cook for 3–5 minutes, depending on desired doneness.

  9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the salmon: It should flake easily but stay moist inside.

  • Adjust spice level: Reduce red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder sauce.

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.

  • Deglazing matters: Scraping the pan adds rich flavor to the sauce.

  • Serve it right: This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.