Description
Try Marry Me Salmon—tender salmon in a rich sun-dried tomato cream sauce, packed with flavor and ready in 40 minutes for a perfect meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 salmon fillets (skin removed) – Salmon is the heart of this recipe, providing a flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Used to sear the salmon, this healthy fat enhances flavor and richness.
- 1 tsp dried basil – Adds a sweet, aromatic quality that complements the richness of the sauce.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a robust garlicky flavor.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Contributes depth and sweetness to the seasoning mix.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme – Offers an earthy flavor that rounds out the dish.
- 3/4 tsp red pepper flakes – Provides a gentle heat that balances the creamy sauce.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – Adds a light kick to the seasoning mix.
- 1 cup chicken stock (unsalted) – Used to deglaze the pan and adds a savory depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – Provides richness and creaminess, making the sauce luxurious.
- 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes – These sweet-tart tomatoes give color, flavor, and texture to the sauce.
- 5 garlic cloves (minced) – Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances the sauce’s richness.
- Fresh basil for garnish – Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note when serving.
Instructions
- Mix the seasonings: In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp dried basil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 3/4 tsp red pepper flakes, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Season salmon fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season them on both sides with half of the spice mix you just prepared.
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This ensures that the salmon sears perfectly.
- Sear the salmon: Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the fillets are golden brown and cooked to your liking. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside.
- Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes: In the same skillet, lower the heat to low. Add 5 minced garlic cloves and 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan: Pour in 1 cup unsalted chicken stock to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This adds tremendous flavor to the sauce.
- Create the sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese along with the remaining spice mix. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return the salmon: Gently place the seared salmon back into the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over it. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is warmed through and to your preferred doneness.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the salmon, spooning extra sauce on top, and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your culinary victory!