Description
Silky salmon meets irresistible flavors in this marry me salmon recipe that promises romance on a plate. Romantic dinner guests will swoon over these perfectly seasoned, tender fillets that deliver culinary magic in every delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces/170 grams each), skin-on or skinless
Dairy and Cream Base:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 milliliters)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavor Enhancers and Aromatics:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (in oil, drained)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Carefully blot salmon fillets with clean kitchen towels to remove excess moisture, then generously season both surfaces with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling environment for the fish. Gently place salmon fillets skin-side down, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until perfectly cooked through.
- Lower the skillet’s heat and introduce butter, creating a silky base for the aromatic sauce. Sauté finely chopped onions until translucent, then add minced garlic and allow its fragrance to bloom.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet, stirring to release their intense, concentrated flavor. Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously to create a luxurious, velvety sauce.
- Simmer the sauce, reducing it until it reaches a rich, coating consistency. Enhance with Italian seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper to elevate the overall taste profile.
- Carefully nestle the cooked salmon fillets back into the skillet, gently coating them with the decadent sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Allow the fish to warm through and absorb the complex flavors.
- Transfer to serving plates, adorning with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. Accompany with roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or fragrant rice to complete the culinary experience.
Notes
- Moisture Matters: Pat salmon fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in delicious flavors.
- Cream Sauce Consistency: Stir the sauce constantly and watch carefully to prevent separation or burning, aiming for a smooth, velvety texture that coats the salmon beautifully.
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce that still maintains rich creaminess.
- Fresh Herb Enhancement: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or thyme to customize the flavor profile and add a bright, aromatic touch to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg