Description
Elevate your salmon game with this luxurious yet easy-to-make dish! Tender, flaky salmon fillets are baked to perfection and topped with a velvety lemon butter cream sauce. The sauce combines rich butter, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of cream for a tangy, creamy finish. Garnished with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, this recipe is a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner at home!
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Heavy cream
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your salmon cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden crust. While the oven heats, you can prepare the salmon, allowing you to make the most out of your time in the kitchen.
Take your fresh salmon fillets and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will not only make for easier cleanup but also help prevent the fish from sticking. Make sure to pat the salmon dry with a paper towel; this ensures the skin crisps up beautifully.
Generously season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there—rubbing the seasoning into the fish will really enhance the flavor. To take it up a notch, sprinkle some garlic powder for an extra layer of taste.
Place the seasoned salmon fillets in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Keep an eye on them; you want the salmon to be tender and flake easily with a fork, but not overcooked. The scent wafting through your kitchen at this point will be nothing short of heavenly!
While the salmon bakes, it’s time to whip up the lemon butter cream sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant. Then, add heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. This is where the flavors meld together, creating a rich and tangy delight that’s perfect for drizzling over your salmon.
Once the salmon has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist. Serve each fillet on a plate with a generous spoonful of the lemon butter cream sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional lemon wedges for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
Cooking Time
The recommended cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. A general rule is to bake for 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh salmon is key to achieving the best flavor. Opt for wild-caught when possible for maximum taste and quality.
Sauce Variations
Feel free to customize the sauce! Add capers for a briny kick, or incorporate fresh herbs like dill or thyme for an herbal twist. The possibilities are endless!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes