If you’ve been searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Marry Me Salmon with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. This beautifully balanced recipe combines tender, perfectly seared salmon with a luscious, velvety sauce bursting with the tangy richness of sun-dried tomatoes and the nutty depth of Parmesan. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that promises to impress both your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share the meal. Trust me, this is not just dinner—it’s an experience you’ll want to make on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture. From the aromatic Italian seasoning to the creamy Parmesan, everything comes together flawlessly.
- 4 salmon filets, skinless: Choose fresh, firm filets for the best texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: For searing the salmon perfectly, adding a lovely crisp crust.
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: Brings herby warmth that complements the fish beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of spice to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons butter: The foundation for a rich and creamy sauce.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Provides fragrant depth that elevates every bite.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce into its luscious creamy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory flavor and smoothness to the sauce.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated: Delivers nutty, salty goodness that defines the sauce.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained: Gives a tangy, vibrant punch of color and taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A second hit of herbs to tie the sauce elements together.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fresh, bright lift to balance the creaminess.
- Fresh basil, for garnish: Adds a vibrant pop of herbal flavor and color at the end.
How to Make Marry Me Salmon with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by brushing each salmon filet evenly with olive oil. This ensures a beautiful sear and keeps the fish moist. Then season both sides generously with dried Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper to layer in those essential flavors right from the start.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Gently place the salmon filets in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes per side. Your goal is a golden brown, crispy exterior while still locking in moisture. After turning, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the salmon is opaque in the center. Once ready, transfer the filets to a plate and set aside temporarily.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Return the skillet to medium-high heat and melt the butter until foamy. Add the minced garlic and sauté just long enough for it to release its mouthwatering aroma—about 30 seconds. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to combine it with the butter and garlic into a smooth paste called a roux. This step is essential for building that creamy sauce consistency.
Step 4: Whisk in the Liquids
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan while whisking vigorously. This whisking keeps the mixture smooth and silky, preventing lumps and ensuring a rich, velvety texture that will coat each salmon filet perfectly.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, extra dried Italian seasoning, and the bright zing of lemon zest. Always taste your sauce at this point and adjust the salt and pepper as needed to make sure it sings with flavor.
Step 6: Simmer and Thicken
Let the sauce gently simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This is when all those delicious flavors blend together and the sauce gains its luxurious creamy body.
Step 7: Return the Salmon
Place the cooked salmon filets back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce so they can soak up every bit of that amazing flavor.
Step 8: Simmer and Garnish
Lower the heat to medium-low and let the salmon simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes. This final step ensures the fish becomes infused with the creamy sun-dried tomato and Parmesan goodness. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped basil leaves and an extra pinch of lemon zest over the top for a fresh and enticing finish.
How to Serve Marry Me Salmon with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scatter of fresh basil leaves and a light sprinkle of lemon zest makeover the dish. These bright, fresh garnishes add vibrant color and a fragrant herbal note that perfectly counterbalance the creamy richness of the sauce.
Side Dishes
This salmon pairs beautifully with al dente pasta or fluffy white rice, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy Parmesan sauce. For a lighter option, steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli bring freshness and crunch to the plate, balancing the indulgence of the fish and sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, serve this recipe over a bed of wilted spinach or mashed cauliflower to add an extra layer of texture and color. You can also plate individual salmon filets with a drizzle of sauce artfully dispersed around them for a restaurant-quality presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, store the salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the salmon tender and prevents the sauce from thickening too much or separating.
Freezing
You can freeze the sauce (without the salmon) for up to one month in a sealed container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. The salmon itself is best eaten fresh but can be frozen for up to two months if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the sauce over low heat while stirring frequently to restore its creamy texture. Warm the salmon separately in a low oven or microwave on a gentle setting to avoid drying it out. Then combine them again just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning and searing to achieve that golden crust.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes work best?
Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes offer the richest flavor and texture for this sauce. Drain them well to avoid excess oil in your dish.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and slightly thinner.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You could swap butter for olive oil and use a dairy-free cream alternative along with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to create a similar cheesy flavor.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque in the center. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Marry Me Salmon with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is one of those magic meals that feels luxurious without being fussy. The combination of creamy sauce with tangy tomatoes and perfectly seared salmon creates the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a special occasion or your next cozy night in, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to this deliciously comforting favorite.
Print
Marry Me Salmon with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Marry Me Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon filets nestled in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers a deliciously elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, chicken broth, and a touch of lemon zest, complements the tender salmon perfectly, while fresh basil adds a fragrant finishing touch.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon filets, skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
Parmesan Cream Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon: Brush olive oil evenly on each salmon filet, then season both sides with dried Italian seasoning, Kosher salt, and cracked black pepper.
- Sear the salmon: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon filets and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until the surface is golden brown and crispy. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until salmon is cooked through to the center. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Return the skillet to medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously to form a paste with the butter and garlic.
- Whisk in the liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, dried Italian seasoning, and lemon zest. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Simmer and thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for several minutes until it thickens slightly to a creamy consistency.
- Return the salmon: Nestle the cooked salmon filets back into the skillet, laying them on top of the sauce.
- Simmer and garnish: Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to simmer for 10 minutes so the salmon absorbs some sauce flavors. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil leaves and additional lemon zest if desired.
- Serve: Serve the salmon warm over cooked pasta, rice, or your preferred side dish to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the sun-dried tomatoes well to avoid excess oil in the sauce.
- The salmon can be served with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Adjust seasoning of the sauce at the end to suit your taste preferences.
- Use skinless salmon filets for easier searing and serving.
- Fresh basil adds a fresh, aromatic finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
