The moment you sink your fork into a perfectly baked salmon fillet, drizzled with a luscious lemon butter cream sauce, the world seems to fade away. The tangy brightness of the lemon dances on your palate while the buttery richness envelops each bite in pure bliss. Trust me, this dish is not just dinner; it’s an experience that makes every meal feel like a five-star dining adventure.
I remember the first time I attempted this recipe, armed with nothing but a dream and a slightly questionable confidence level. As I watched my friends’ eyes widen with delight and their forks dive into the salmon like they were at a buffet, I knew I’d struck gold. Whether it’s date night or a simple weeknight dinner, Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce will make you feel like the culinary superstar you’ve always wanted to be. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- The flavor combination of lemon and butter elevates the salmon to gourmet status without the fuss.
- Its vibrant colors and creamy texture create an impressive presentation that wows guests every time.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair well with various sides like rice, veggies, or even pasta!
Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Look for fresh, skin-on fillets for added flavor and moisture during baking.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness in your sauce for optimal flavor balance.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled juice simply won’t do!
- Heavy Cream: This is what gives your sauce that luxurious creamy texture that you’ll want to pour on everything.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will provide a fragrant base that complements the buttery sauce perfectly.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also brings a fresh herbal note to your dish.
For the Sauce:
- Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings are key; use them generously but taste as you go!
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). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place your salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season generously with salt and black pepper—don’t be shy; these fish deserve love too!
Step 3: Create the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly! Stir in heavy cream and fresh lemon juice; let it simmer gently until it thickens—about five minutes.
Step 4: Pour It On
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, pour it generously over the salmon fillets. Don’t hold back; let those flavors soak in!
Step 5: Bake Your Salmon
Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork. You can also broil it for an additional two minutes at the end if you want that golden-brown finish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven carefully (it’s hot!). Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for an added touch of freshness. Transfer these beauties onto plates and get ready to impress!
Now go ahead—dive into this scrumptious Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce! You’ll find yourself dreaming about those flavors long after dinner is over. Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is not only a culinary delight but also a healthy powerhouse.
- This dish is easy to prepare and can turn any ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience that impresses even the pickiest eaters.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it’s heating, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then sear them in a hot skillet for about two minutes per side. Transfer to the oven and bake while you whip up that luscious lemon butter cream sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or parsley instead of just thyme. You can also add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra kick or toss in some capers for a briny surprise.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that the salmon remains moist and tender.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh salmon for better flavor; frozen can work, but fresh makes all the difference.
- Don’t skip the searing step; it adds delicious texture.
- Always taste your sauce before serving—seasoning adjustments can elevate your dish!
Sometimes I whip this dish out when I want to impress my friends, and their reactions never fail me; they’re always asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
To make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, you will need fresh salmon fillets, butter, heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish. Using high-quality salmon will enhance the flavor of the dish, while fresh lemon juice adds a bright note that complements the rich butter cream sauce.
How long does it take to bake the salmon?
Baking salmon typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). The baking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets. To ensure perfectly cooked salmon, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can lead to dry fish, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
Can I prepare the lemon butter cream sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter cream sauce in advance. To do this, cook the sauce as directed and then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on low heat while stirring. Freshly squeeze some additional lemon juice right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
Baked Salmon pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a healthy option. A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette also complements this dish beautifully. Crunchy Broccoli Salad Recipe Roasted Garlic Kale Caesar Salad For a heartier meal, try serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa for added texture and flavor. Healthy Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe.
Conclusion for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce :
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. By using fresh ingredients like salmon and lemon, you can create a meal that impresses family and friends alike. Remember to monitor your baking time for perfect results and consider pairing it with delicious sides for a complete dining experience. Enjoy this creamy sauce that elevates your baked salmon into a gourmet treat!
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that elevates any meal into a gourmet experience. Tender salmon fillets are baked to perfection and topped with a creamy, tangy lemon butter sauce, offering a perfect balance of flavors. This recipe is ideal for date nights or impressing guests, and its vibrant presentation will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place salmon fillets on the baking sheet and season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter; add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice, simmering until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Pour the sauce generously over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
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