This Marry Me Salmon served in a creamy tomato herb sauce is simply mouthwatering! The blend of fresh tomatoes, herbs, and cream makes it super rich and flavorful.
I joke that this dish is so good, it could win over anyone’s heart! I love sharing it with friends or enjoying it after a long day—always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh or frozen salmon works well here! If you’re in a pinch, you can use other fish like trout or even chicken breasts for a different flavor profile. Just keep cooking times in mind!
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness; however, sun-dried tomatoes also give great flavor! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, use canned diced tomatoes. They’re a good standby for sauces.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk. Coconut milk is a dairy-free option that adds a unique taste, too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds saltiness and depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work as great alternatives.
Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor wonderfully. If you don’t have fresh parsley or dill, you can increase the dried herbs; however, fresh creates a brighter taste!
How Do I Get the Salmon Just Right?
Searing the salmon perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:
- Start with a dry fillet—patting it with paper towels removes moisture, allowing for crispy skin.
- Heat your pan first. Olive oil should shimmer before adding the salmon, ensuring a nice sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side. The salmon should be golden on the outside and opaque in the center when done.
With these tips, your salmon will be moist and flavorful every time! Enjoy making this dish your own!
Marry Me Salmon with Creamy Tomato Herb Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden and just cooked through. Carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Tomato Base:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes (or sun-dried tomatoes) to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften.
4. Create the Sauce:
Next, stir in the chicken broth (or white wine) while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let this simmer for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Add the tomato paste and dried Italian herbs, mixing until well combined.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Now pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Take a moment to add the fresh parsley, dill, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you’d like a little heat) to the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Combine and Serve:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Warm through for 1-2 minutes to make sure everything is heated nicely. Now, serve the salmon hot, drizzling plenty of that creamy tomato herb sauce over each fillet. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired for a lovely presentation.
This creamy, herb-infused tomato sauce with tender salmon creates a beautiful dish that’s sure to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw salmon in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy tomato herb sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove and add the cooked salmon to warm it through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you could use half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just be aware that using lighter liquids might result in a less creamy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to make sure the sauce doesn’t separate.
