Marry Me Salmon

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Golden, pan-seared salmon fillets smothered in a creamy, dreamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs—that’s the magic of Marry Me Salmon. With flavors so rich and alluring, it’s no wonder this dish has a name that suggests lifelong commitment. Each bite delivers a balance of buttery texture, zesty tang, and savory depth that feels like a cozy candlelit dinner in every forkful.

Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just want to indulge yourself in something irresistibly delicious, Marry Me Salmon is a standout choice. It’s elegant yet easy, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressively intimate weekend meals. One pan, minimal effort, and a whole lot of flavor—this is your go-to when only the best will do.

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Ingredients for Marry Me Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or off, your preference)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 small bell pepper, diced (optional, for extra color and crunch)
• Juice of half a lemon (to brighten the flavor)

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry using a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down and sear for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for another minute, allowing the tomatoes to infuse the butter with flavor.

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Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce has slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.

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Step 4: Add Flavor Boosts

For added freshness and color, stir in the diced bell pepper and a splash of lemon juice. Let it cook for another minute to soften slightly without losing its crunch.

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Step 5: Return Salmon to the Sauce

Nestle the seared salmon fillets back into the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Let them warm through for 2–3 minutes. This final step allows the flavors to meld beautifully into the fish.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of green and an herbal lift. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Marry Me Salmon tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage is key:

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce and salmon are cooled before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Freeze: While salmon can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. If needed, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 month, and reheat gently over low heat while stirring.
• Reheating Tip: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long as it can dry out the fish.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to get a good sear.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less thick and rich.

3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. With low carbs and high fat and protein, this fits well into a keto diet.

4. What sides go well with Marry Me Salmon?

Great pairings include garlic mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, sautéed spinach, or crusty bread.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of dairy, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

6. Can I use other types of fish?

Definitely. This sauce works beautifully with cod, halibut, or trout.

7. How spicy is it with red pepper flakes?

It adds a mild kick. Feel free to adjust or omit based on your spice preference.

8. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

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