Oh my goodness, let me tell you about baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce! This dish has become one of my go-to recipes for both quick weeknight dinners and those special occasions when I want to impress my friends or family. The combination of flaky salmon and that creamy, zesty sauce is just heavenly! You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up, yet it tastes like a gourmet meal. Seriously, when I make this, the kitchen fills with the most delightful aroma, and I can hardly wait to dig in. Plus, it’s a healthier option than many other comfort foods, which is a definite win in my book! I remember the first time I made it for a dinner party—everyone went back for seconds and thirds! It’s such a crowd-pleaser, and I promise, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your home too. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. This dish is incredibly simple, and I love that it uses fresh, straightforward items that you can probably find in your kitchen or at the store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each, skinless is preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with that seasoning!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious sauce)
- 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted, because we want to control the salt)
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested; one for the juice and the other for the zest—trust me, it makes all the difference!)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced; fresh garlic is a must for flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for garnishing; adds a nice touch of color and freshness)
Now that you know what to gather, you’re all set to start creating this delicious meal. Let’s keep that excitement rolling!
How to Prepare Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! I’m going to walk you through each step to ensure your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce turns out absolutely delicious. Just follow along, and you’ll be a pro in no time!
Prepping the Salmon
First things first, we need to prep our salmon fillets. I like to start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake. While that’s warming up, take those beautiful salmon fillets and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fish, and don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper—this is where the flavor starts! I usually rub the oil and seasoning in a bit to make sure every inch is coated. Simple, right?
Making the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Now, let’s move on to that dreamy lemon butter cream sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. I love how the butter starts to bubble and sizzle—it’s such a comforting sound! Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant. Careful not to let it brown too much; we just want it to be aromatic. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with the juice and zest of those two lemons. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. It should be creamy and luscious—just what we’re aiming for!
Baking the Salmon
Alright, the oven should be ready by now! Pop that baking sheet with the salmon into the oven and let it bake for about 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has turned a lovely light pink color. If you’re unsure, you can always check the thickest part of the fillet—if it’s opaque and easily separates, you’re golden! Once it’s out, let it rest for just a minute while you get ready to plate it up. Trust me, the anticipation is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you, baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why this recipe has a permanent spot in my kitchen:
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you can whip this up in about 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of buttery lemon cream and flaky salmon is simply divine—every bite is a burst of flavor!
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both tasty and good for you. Learn more about the health benefits of salmon.
- Impressive Presentation: It looks gourmet, so it’s great for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from steamed veggies to fluffy rice.
Seriously, once you try it, you’ll understand why I can’t stop raving about this recipe!
Tips for Success
Alright, my friend, if you want to elevate your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce to the next level, here are some tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon makes all the difference! Look for fillets that are vibrant in color and smell like the ocean. If you can, get wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon can go from perfectly cooked to dry in a matter of minutes. Keep an eye on it while it’s baking, and use a fork to test for flakiness. Remember, it’s okay if it looks slightly undercooked in the center; it will continue to cook as it rests.
- Season Generously: Salmon loves flavor! Don’t hold back on the salt and pepper when seasoning. A good seasoning will enhance the natural taste of the fish and make your dish pop!
- Presentation Matters: When serving, drizzle that luscious lemon butter cream sauce generously over the salmon, and don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. It makes the dish look so inviting!
- Experiment with Herbs: If you want to switch things up, try adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the sauce. They complement the lemon and salmon beautifully and add an extra layer of flavor.
These little tweaks can really enhance your dish, making it even more enjoyable. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Variations on Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
One of the best things about baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is how versatile it can be! If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some delicious variations to switch things up:
- Herb-Infused Sauce: Try adding fresh dill, thyme, or basil to the lemon butter cream sauce for an aromatic twist. Each herb brings its own delightful flavor that pairs beautifully with the salmon.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce while it simmers. It adds a wonderful warmth that complements the creaminess.
- Veggie Boost: Toss some asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach onto the baking sheet with the salmon. They’ll roast alongside the fish, soaking up all those delicious flavors and making for a complete meal!
- Citrus Twist: Mix in some orange or lime juice along with the lemon juice for a citrus medley. It brightens the sauce and adds a unique flavor dimension.
- Nutty Crunch: For a bit of texture, sprinkle some toasted almond slivers or chopped walnuts over the salmon just before serving. It adds a lovely crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love! Experimenting is half the fun, and I can’t wait to hear what delicious creations you come up with!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce. I always find it helpful to know what I’m putting into my body, and this dish strikes a lovely balance between indulgence and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (1 salmon fillet with sauce):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 300mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But overall, you can feel good about enjoying this dish—it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it not only delicious but also a nutritious choice!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before cooking. You can place it in the refrigerator overnight or run it under cold water for a quicker thaw. The baking time might be a tad longer if it’s still a bit frozen, so keep an eye on it!
What should I serve with baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! I love serving it with steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, or even fluffy rice to soak up that delicious sauce. A fresh salad also makes a lovely complement!
Can I make the lemon butter cream sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Just prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of cream to bring it back to that creamy consistency.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
Great question! The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If you’re unsure, it’s better to check a minute or two early!
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Definitely! This lemon butter cream sauce works beautifully with other fish like trout, cod, or halibut. Just be mindful of the cooking times as they may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: A Cozy Classic
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is a delicious and easy dish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve the salmon topped with the lemon butter cream sauce and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For a lower fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: baked salmon, lemon butter sauce, easy salmon recipe