Marry Me Salmon Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Marry Me Salmon is the perfect combination of bold flavors and simplicity. The salmon is cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and a tender interior, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious texture and mouthwatering taste. The blend of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan creates a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the rich fish. Whether you're impressing guests or enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe will make you feel like a gourmet chef.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless or with skin)

• 2 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ⅓ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or Italian seasoning)

• ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped

• Salt & pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Salmon:

   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.

   • Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook the Salmon:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

   • Sear the salmon fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness.

   • Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

   • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

   • Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese.

   • Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Add Flavor:

   • Stir in chili flakes (if using), sun-dried tomatoes, and dried basil.

   • Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Combine & Finish:

   • Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted.

   • Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them, and let everything simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

   • Serve warm with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a perfect meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: If you love extra heat, increase the chili flakes or add a small amount of cayenne pepper.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the salmon with another protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also skip the protein altogether and serve the sauce with pasta for a creamy vegetarian meal.

• Different Greens: Feel free to substitute the spinach with kale or arugula for a slightly different flavor profile.

• Add Extra Veggies: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for more variety and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Marry Me Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the salmon and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just be sure to thaw it properly before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

3. How can I tell when the salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but sun-dried tomatoes bring a deeper, more concentrated flavor that works beautifully in this dish.

5. Can I use store-bought pesto in the sauce?

You can substitute dried basil with 1–2 tablespoons of pesto for a fresh twist in the sauce.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the chicken broth and any other ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

7. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the salmon and sauce separately in advance and then combine them when you're ready to serve. Reheat the sauce gently before adding the salmon.

8. Can I add more cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! You can increase the Parmesan or even add other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor.

9. Can I serve this with something other than rice, potatoes, or pasta?

Yes, you can serve it with roasted vegetables, a salad, or quinoa for a lighter option.

10. How spicy is this recipe?

The level of spiciness depends on how much chili flakes you add. You can adjust the heat level based on your preference.

Conclusion

Marry Me Salmon is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will elevate any meal. The combination of perfectly cooked salmon and a creamy, cheesy sauce makes this a dish everyone will love. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress.