This Marry Me Creamy Herb Salmon is a true delight! It features tender salmon fillets topped with a rich garlic butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a special dinner!
You might just want to marry this dish after the first bite—it’s that good! 😂 I love to serve it with some fresh veggies or pasta for a fancy yet simple meal. Enjoy the yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you’re looking for a substitute, try using trout or even chicken breasts for a different protein option.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its rich flavor. If you’re counting calories, swap it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream like cashew cream for a lighter version.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth helps to create a savory base for the sauce. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian dish, use vegetable broth instead or even a splash of water in a pinch.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon on hand, yellow mustard or even a touch of whole grain mustard can work too.
Fresh Herbs: While parsley and dill brighten the dish, you can substitute with chives, basil, or tarragon based on your taste or availability.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Creating a creamy sauce can be tricky, but it’s simple once you know how! Here are some steps to ensure a smooth sauce:
- Always add cream on a low heat to prevent curdling.
- Stir the sauce gently to combine ingredients. Avoid boiling it rapidly; just let it simmer.
- If using wine, pay attention to the timing—simmer it first to eliminate the alcohol before adding the cream.
- Constantly whisk as you mix in the Dijon and herbs; this keeps the sauce incorporated and velvety.
Marry Me Creamy Herb Salmon With Rich Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you can have a scrumptious meal ready to impress your loved ones!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering, carefully add the salmon fillets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a warm plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown, as that can make the flavor bitter.
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth (or dry white wine) and let it simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly. This helps concentrate the flavors.
5. Make it Creamy:
Now, reduce the heat further and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and Dijon mustard. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Season the Sauce:
Add in the crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavor to your liking!
7. Add Fresh Herbs and Lemon:
Stir in the chopped parsley, dill, and lemon juice to brighten the sauce. This will add that fresh, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
8. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the salmon to the skillet, making sure to spoon the creamy herb sauce generously over each fillet. Let them warm through for about a minute so they soak up those delicious flavors.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salmon hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed asparagus and fresh greens for a balanced meal.
Enjoy every bite of your decadent and flavorful Marry Me Creamy Herb Salmon with Rich Garlic Butter Sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method (seal in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water). Pat it dry before seasoning to ensure it sears properly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you’d like a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream. Use dairy-free butter or olive oil to replace the unsalted butter as well.
Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce. Just taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore some of its creaminess if needed.
