Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine the succulent, flaky fish paired with a velvety sauce that dances on your palate, bursting with bright citrus notes. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the senses, promising to elevate any weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience.
I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was during a family gathering where laughter shared the table as generously as the food did. The aroma of lemon and butter filled the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special after a long day. Trust me, once you dive into this flavor party, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners feel fancy without the fuss.
- The creamy lemon butter sauce adds an irresistible flavor that pairs perfectly with salmon.
- Visually, it’s stunning with vibrant colors that will have everyone wanting seconds.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with various sides like rice or vegetables.
Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for skinless fillets that are bright in color and smell like the ocean. They should feel firm to the touch.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of your sauce more effectively.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose plump cloves for the best flavor, and don’t be shy about using them – garlic makes everything better!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It brightens up flavors and adds that zesty punch we adore.
- Heavy Cream: This gives your sauce its luxurious texture, making it rich and decadent.
- Fresh Parsley: Use it for garnishing; its fresh taste will balance out the richness of the dish beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because we want our salmon perfectly cooked without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil. Place your fresh salmon fillets skin-side down (or top-side down if they are skinless) in the dish.
Step 3: Season Your Salmon
Generously season each salmon fillet with salt and pepper. You can even add some garlic powder if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add lemon juice and heavy cream while stirring continuously until well combined and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Pour It On
Pour your luscious lemon butter cream sauce over the seasoned salmon fillets evenly. Get every nook and cranny covered—no salmon left behind!
Step 6: Bake Until Flaky
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it; no one likes dry fish!
Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining sauce over each serving for that perfect finishing touch.
Now go ahead and enjoy your fabulous baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce! Pair it with some steamed veggies or fluffy rice for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds—or thirds!
You Must Know
- This baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is a showstopper that elevates any dinner table.
- The combination of buttery richness and zesty citrus makes it a crowd favorite.
- Plus, it’s easy to make, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, prepare the lemon butter cream sauce on the stovetop. Once finished, place the seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them before baking for about 15-20 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up by adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the sauce. You can also switch out salmon for other fish like trout or even chicken if you’re feeling adventurous! A dash of smoked paprika adds a delightful twist too.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for that vibrant zing; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
- Make sure your salmon is room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
- Finally, let it rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps redistribute those delicious juices.
It was my sister’s birthday when I first whipped up this baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce. Her eyes lit up as she took her first bite, declaring it her new favorite dish! That moment made all my efforts worth it.
FAQs:
What is the best way to store leftover Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
To store leftover Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the salmon. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. This method helps maintain freshness and prevents freezer burn.
Can I substitute other types of fish for salmon in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other types of fish for salmon in this Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce recipe. Options such as trout, cod, or halibut work well due to their mild flavors and similar cooking times. Just ensure that the fish fillets are of comparable thickness to prevent overcooking or undercooking during baking.
What can I serve alongside Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed asparagus or broccoli for a healthy option. Alternatively, garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa salad can enhance the meal’s heartiness. A fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the dish nicely too.
How can I make a dairy-free version of the lemon butter cream sauce?
To create a dairy-free version of the lemon butter cream sauce, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of traditional butter and cream. Begin by blending soaked cashews until smooth, then mix in lemon juice and zest for flavor. This alternative maintains a creamy texture while being suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Conclusion for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a deliciously easy dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. By using fresh ingredients like lemon and quality salmon, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy. Remember to pair this dish with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress!
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that elevates any meal with its succulent salmon and rich, zesty sauce. This easy-to-make recipe transforms ordinary weeknight dinners into a gourmet experience, making it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. The creamy lemon butter sauce complements the fish beautifully, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
- Season the fillets generously with salt and pepper.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add lemon juice and heavy cream; stir until combined and slightly thickened.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce (6 oz)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like dill to the sauce or try substituting salmon with trout or chicken. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
