Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dinner experience that brings together the delicate flavors of baked salmon and a creamy, zesty lemon butter sauce! This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also presents beautifully, making it perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion with friends. The salmon is cooked to perfection, flaky and tender, while the sauce adds a rich, citrusy touch that elevates it to a whole new level.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to perfectly bake your salmon.
- Take a baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets in the dish, skin-side down.
- Drizzle the olive oil generously over the salmon, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to become golden and luscious.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute, until your kitchen fills with its inviting aroma.
- Pour in the rich heavy cream, followed by the tangy lemon juice and fragrant lemon zest, stirring well to combine.
- Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a beautiful, silky texture.
- Once the sauce has thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the fresh, vibrant parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- When the salmon is ready, carefully drizzle the luscious lemon butter cream sauce over the fillets and serve immediately for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Notes or Tips
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the salmon in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for half an hour before baking. Also, feel free to customize the sauce with additional herbs like dill or chives. For a fantastic side, serve this dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Cooking Techniques
Understanding how to bake salmon properly can make all the difference. Aim for a temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked fish that remains moist and flaky. The key to the lemon butter cream sauce is to heat gently and avoid boiling, preserving its creamy consistency. By sautéing the garlic in butter first, you infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor—an essential technique for any home cook!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s fully cooked. A food thermometer will help you ensure it has reached the safe cooking temperature of 145°F.
Can the sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the lemon butter cream sauce a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
This baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a gathering, this recipe is perfect for creating heartwarming memories around the table. Try it out and let the burst of flavors take you on a culinary adventure!