Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (6-8 oz each) – Skinless or with skin-on, depending on your preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the salmon.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is essential for the sauce’s depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the dish.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional, for a slight kick.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, creamy base.
- ½ cup chicken broth – Balances the richness of the cream and adds depth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the sauce.
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Sweet and tangy, these are the signature ingredient of the dish.
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped – For garnish and a burst of freshness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Seasoning for the salmon and sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step ensures a good sear.
- Season both sides of the fillets with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if using skin-on salmon. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
- Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
- Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, stirring for another 15 seconds.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Return the Salmon
- Nestle the salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
- Simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the salmon to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle fresh basil over the salmon and sauce before serving.
- Serve hot, paired with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
Cooking Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Adjust the Heat: Keep the heat at medium to prevent the sauce from scorching or breaking.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Troubleshooting:
- Too Thick Sauce: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out.
- Too Thin Sauce: Let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Broken Sauce: If the cream separates, whisk in a tablespoon of cold cream to bring it back together.
Kitchen Tips:
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- For even cooking, bring the salmon to room temperature before searing.
- Mince garlic finely to ensure it melts into the sauce rather than burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes