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Perfect Marry Me Salmon Recipe with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce

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A quick and easy salmon dish featuring a creamy, tangy sun-dried tomato sauce that is perfect for date nights or cozy dinners. This recipe delivers flaky, moist salmon with a rich, velvety sauce packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170g each), skin-on or skinless, fresh or thawed
  • ½ cup (75g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained slightly
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup (25g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (can substitute Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side down if it has skin. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to create a crust.
  3. Flip salmon carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just opaque in the center. Transfer salmon to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon olive oil if needed. Add chopped shallot and minced garlic. Cook, stirring often, about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  5. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute to release flavor.
  6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let cream thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Sauce should be creamy and glossy.
  8. Return salmon fillets to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and warm together for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  9. Transfer salmon to serving plates, spoon extra sauce on top, garnish with additional basil if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat salmon dry before seasoning to help crisp the skin and prevent steaming. Use gentle simmer for the cream to avoid curdling. Add lemon juice at the end to brighten the sauce. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. For thicker salmon fillets, add 1-2 minutes to cooking time. Can finish salmon in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 3-5 minutes after searing for even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon recipe, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, quick dinner, easy salmon, date night recipe, seafood, healthy dinner