Description
Creamy, tangy marry me salmon brings passion to dinner tables with irresistible flavors that melt hearts. Garlic herb butter sauce and tender fish create a romantic meal promising love at first bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each, skinless or with skin)
Salmon Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare salmon by thoroughly patting fillets dry, then generously season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating across entire surface.
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat (around 375°F). Carefully place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down, searing for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy edges develop.
- Flip salmon and cook additional 2-3 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Transfer fillets to clean plate and set aside.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium-low. Melt butter, then add minced garlic, sautéing until aromatic and translucent, approximately 45-60 seconds.
- Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into skillet, whisking continuously. Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and sauce begins to thicken.
- Introduce sun-dried tomatoes, chili flakes, and dried basil to sauce. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and develop depth.
- Add fresh spinach to skillet, stirring until leaves wilt and become tender, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Return salmon fillets to skillet, nestling them into sauce. Spoon creamy mixture over fish, allowing everything to reheat together for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure salmon is patted completely dry to achieve a crispy, golden exterior when searing.
- Choose high-quality fresh salmon with vibrant color and minimal fishy smell for best results.
- Adjust cooking time based on salmon thickness to prevent overcooking and maintain tender, juicy texture.
- Customize heat level by increasing or decreasing chili flakes according to personal spice preference.
- Use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and nutritional yeast for lactose-intolerant or vegan adaptations.
- Create a lighter version by replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat milk.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the dish’s flavor profile, so experiment with different herb combinations.
- Let salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain moisture and improve overall taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 603 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 48 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg