There's a reason this salmon recipe earned its charming nickname - it's simply that good! This "Marry Me Salmon" is a restaurant-quality dish that combines perfectly cooked, melt-in-your-mouth salmon with a honey-garlic butter sauce that's truly proposal-worthy. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meal, this recipe promises to impress.
Why You'll Love This Marry Me Salmon Recipe
This Marry Me Salmon recipe has earned its reputation through the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, paired with a foolproof cooking method that ensures tender, flaky fish every time. The magic lies in the careful preparation and the irresistible sauce that transforms simple salmon into an unforgettable meal.
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Ingredients
the Salmon:
- 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
the Honey-Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
- Remove the salmon from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels
- Season both sides generously with salt and pepper
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
Sear the Salmon
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat
- Once the oil is shimmering, place the salmon fillets skin-side up
- Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown
- Carefully flip the fillets skin-side down
Make the Sauce
- Add butter to the same skillet around the salmon
- Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
- Pour in honey and lemon juice, stirring to combine
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if using
Finish in the Oven
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through
- Spoon the sauce over the salmon every few minutes
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Choose center-cut salmon fillets of equal thickness for even cooking
- Don't skip bringing the salmon to room temperature - this ensures even cooking
- Look for salmon with bright color and a fresh, ocean-like smell
- The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but is still slightly translucent in the center
Equipment For Marry Me Salmon Recipe
- Large oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Paper towels
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Fish spatula (recommended but not required)
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Gently warm in a 275°F oven until just heated through to prevent drying
Recipe Variations
- Citrus Lover's Version: Add orange zest and juice instead of lemon
- Herbs de Provence: Include a blend of dried herbs in the seasoning
- Spicy Option: Double the red pepper flakes and add a dash of cayenne
- Asian-Inspired: Substitute honey with brown sugar and add soy sauce
Dietary Notes
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free
- Low-Carb: Perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with ghee or olive oil
- Paleo: Substitute honey with maple syrup
Perfect Pairings
Serve your Marry Me Salmon with:
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- Fluffy white rice or cauliflower rice
- Crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Fresh garden salad with light vinaigrette
Top Tip
The key to achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality crust is ensuring your salmon is completely dry before searing and that your pan is properly heated. Don't move the salmon while it's searing - let it develop that golden crust naturally.
FAQ
This recipe got its name because it's so delicious that it might just inspire a marriage proposal! The combination of perfectly cooked salmon and rich, flavorful sauce makes it a memorable dish.
Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator and pat it very dry before cooking. Fresh salmon will give you the best results.
Yes! Sear the salmon in any skillet, then transfer it to a baking dish along with the sauce to finish in the oven.
The salmon should flake easily with a fork but still be slightly translucent in the center. For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C).
This Marry Me Salmon recipe is more than just a meal - it's an experience that brings together simple ingredients in a spectacular way. Whether you're cooking for someone special or treating yourself to an exceptional dinner, this recipe promises to deliver results worthy of its romantic name.
Give it a try and don't be surprised if it becomes your new favorite way to prepare salmon!
If you enjoyed the Marry Me Salmon Recipe, you’ll definitely want to try The Best Chicken Meatloaf Recipe for a flavorful dinner.
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Pairing
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Marry Me Salmon Recipe
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Paper Towels
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Fish spatula (recommended but not required)
Ingredients
the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets 6 oz each
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach optional
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season salmon with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove from pan.
In the same pan:
- Melt butter
- Add minced garlic, cook 1 minute
- Add cream, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning
- Simmer 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened
- Stir in parmesan cheese
- Return salmon to pan, spoon sauce over fish.
- Cook 3-4 minutes until salmon is done.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread
- Store leftovers in fridge up to 2 days
- Best when served fresh and hot
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