This Marry Me Salmon is a treat with tender salmon covered in a creamy, dreamy tomato herb sauce. It’s rich, tasty, and perfect for impressing anyone at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. You can use skin-on for added richness, or opt for other firm fish like trout or halibut if you prefer. Tofu or chickpeas work for a vegetarian option.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have them, canned diced tomatoes can be used, but adjust cooking time to ensure they’re properly softened.
Heavy Cream: This gives a luxurious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like coconut cream for a unique flavor twist!
Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley brighten up the dish. If these aren’t available, try dried herbs, but cut the quantity in half. Thyme or basil can be nice substitutes, too!
How Do I Make Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Making a smooth and creamy sauce is easy with a few simple tips! It’s important to control the heat and not rush the process. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat while cooking. High heat can cause the cream to curdle.
- It’s best to add cream gradually. Stir it into the skillet and let it come to a gentle simmer.
- Be sure to scrape any bits from the bottom of the pan while adding the broth. This adds flavor to your sauce!
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a beautifully creamy sauce that’s packed with flavor and just the right texture!
How to Make Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Tomato Herb Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil), chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll spend about 30 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that extra flavor kick.
2. Cook the Salmon
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the seasoned salmon fillets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden and just cooked through. When done, remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and starts to turn lightly golden.
4. Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan — that’s flavor! Then, stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you like a touch of heat). Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Add Spinach and Herbs
When the sauce is thickened, stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. After that, add the fresh dill, parsley, chives, and the juice of half a lemon. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked salmon to the pan, spooning the creamy tomato herb sauce generously over the top. Warm it for another 1-2 minutes to meld all the flavors. Garnish with extra fresh dill before serving!
Serve your Marry Me Salmon alongside rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking! The best way is to place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, seal the salmon in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. For a lower-calorie alternative, try a combination of Greek yogurt and broth for creaminess without the fat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon and separating the sauce.
What Should I Serve with Marry Me Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables!
