This Marry Me Salmon is a lovely dish that combines tender salmon with a creamy tomato herb sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for impressing someone special—or just treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for this dish. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use cod or trout. Just keep an eye on cooking times as different fish have varying thickness.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness to the sauce. If fresh ones aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. They’ll work just fine and save prep time!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you want a different taste, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
How Do I Get the Salmon Just Right?
Getting your salmon perfectly cooked can make or break the dish. It’s important to sear it well without overcooking. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps create a nice crust.
- Cook salmon skin-side down (if there’s skin) first, then flip. You want it golden brown on both sides.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. You can always check by pressing down gently; it should be just flakey.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Sauce Flavorful?
The sauce is where all the magic happens! Follow these steps for a rich and flavorful sauce:
- Use fresh garlic and cook it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Stir in your spices and herbs before adding liquids; this will help bloom their flavors.
- Let the sauce simmer long enough (around 5-7 minutes) for it to thicken and reduce slightly; this makes it richer.
With these tips and ingredients, you’re set to create a delicious Marry Me Salmon that surely impresses! Enjoy the cooking journey!
Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Tomato Herb Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste or tomato sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Marry Me Salmon recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. In just under half an hour, you can have this romantic dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Searing the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet. Sear the fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color and are just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Cooking the Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned. Next, add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook them for about 3-5 minutes, until they begin to soften and blister. This will add great flavor to your sauce.
4. Making the Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring in the flavor! Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for one minute to let the aromas develop. Then pour in the broth and heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for a few minutes.
5. Adding the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and thicken slightly—about 3-4 minutes should do the trick. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Combining Salmon and Sauce:
Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious sauce and blistered tomatoes over the fillets, allowing everything to warm together for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the salmon absorb all those wonderful flavors.
7. Serving:
To finish, garnish your Marry Me Salmon with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of flavor. Serve immediately, pairing beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that creamy tomato herb sauce.
Enjoy your romantic and flavorful Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Tomato Herb Sauce!
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 to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk, like coconut cream or cashew cream, for a dairy-free version. Just note that the sauce may be less thick and rich with these substitutes.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently and add the cooked salmon just before serving to ensure the fish remains tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon with the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce gets too thick.
