Name: Marry Salmon: 7 Reasons to Choose This Wedding Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided; 1-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided; 1 teaspoon pepper, divided; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 pound salmon fillets, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 shallot, minced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 cup julienned oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 package (8 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish; 1 cup cooked orzo pasta, optional

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Marry Salmon is a delightful dish that combines salmon fillets with a creamy sauce, vegetables, and herbs. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can elevate any occasion, especially weddings. When planning a wedding menu, choosing the right entrée can make all the difference, and this creamy salmon recipe is sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into why you should incorporate this dish into your wedding feast!

Why You’ll Love This Marry Salmon

There are countless reasons to adore Marry Salmon. First, it makes for an elegant wedding entrée that pairs beautifully with various sides. Second, this dish is versatile, allowing for creative twists like marrying salmon flavors with seasonal vegetables. Third, the richness of the creamy sauce complements the tender salmon perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser. Fourth, it’s relatively simple to prepare, which is essential when planning a wedding. Fifth, cooking salmon for a wedding can be done in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy wedding days. Lastly, it’s a gluten-free option, accommodating many dietary needs (Diet: Gluten Free).

Marry Salmon: 7 Reasons to Choose This Wedding Delight - Marry Salmon - main visual representation

Ingredients for Marry Salmon

Gather these items:

4 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
1-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
1 teaspoon pepper, divided
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 pound salmon fillets, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 shallot, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth
1/2 cup julienned oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup whole milk
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 package (8 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
1 cup cooked orzo pasta, optional

How to Make Marry Salmon Step-by-Step

Step 1: Combine 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder in a small bowl. Coat the salmon fillets with the herb-and-spice mixture on all sides.
Step 2: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once oil is shimmering, add the salmon, skin side down, and cook until the skin is crispy, four to five minutes. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for two to three minutes more until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Remove to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium, and add the butter and shallot. Cook for three to five minutes until shallot is softened, then add the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Sprinkle the flour into the pan, stirring to coat the aromatics and soak up the butter. Cook for two to three minutes or until lightly browned. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to break up any lumps. Bring it to a simmer and add the sun-dried tomatoes along with the remaining salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Cook until thickened, four to five minutes.
Step 5: Next, stir the heavy cream, milk, cream cheese, Parmesan, spinach and fresh basil into the sauce. Cook for two to three minutes, until the cream cheese has melted smoothly into the mixture and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir the cooked orzo (if using) into the sauce and toss to combine.
Step 6: Return the fish to the skillet and cook until the salmon warms through. Serve on plates garnished with additional fresh basil.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Marry Salmon

Keep these in mind:

This dish is best served immediately.
Feel free to adjust the level of spice to your preference.
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
Consider using fresh salmon for the best flavor.
Cook the salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F for safety.

Best Ways to Serve Marry Salmon

There are many delightful ways to serve Marry Salmon. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. You could also serve it with a side of garlic bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Additionally, consider serving salmon at weddings with a glass of white wine to enhance the flavors.

How to Store and Reheat Marry Salmon

To store Marry Salmon, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept for up to two days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat to preserve the texture of the salmon and sauce. This dish is also great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Salmon

What’s the secret to perfect Marry Salmon?

The secret to perfect Marry Salmon lies in not overcooking the fish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F. This will keep the salmon moist and flaky.

Can I make Marry Salmon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the salmon fresh on the day of your event for the best taste and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Marry Salmon?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the pan is hot enough before adding the salmon. This will help achieve a crispy skin. Also, avoid flipping the salmon too soon.

Variations of Marry Salmon You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider adding different vegetables to the sauce, such as asparagus or bell peppers. You can also try substituting the orzo with quinoa for a gluten-free option. Another idea is to make a salmon wedding cake by layering salmon with creamy fillings for a unique center piece.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making miso salmon for a different twist. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, mini cranberry cheesecakes are a perfect dessert option!