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When it comes to cooking salmon, a great sauce can make all the difference. That’s why I’m excited to share this creamy lemon garlic butter salmon sauce recipe with you.
It’s perfect for those looking for a delicious and healthy salmon recipe with a rich, tangy sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salmon sauce recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves fish. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a creamy and aromatic sauce that complements the salmon perfectly.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires just a few ingredients.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part?
It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy lemon garlic butter salmon sauce:
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each) , Fresh and of high quality, preferably wild-caught.
2 lemons , You’ll need the juice and zest of both lemons for the sauce.
4 cloves of garlic , Mince the garlic finely to release its full flavor.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter , Softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
1/2 cup heavy cream , Adds a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley , For garnish and added freshness.
Salt and pepper to taste , Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Why These Ingredients
Salmon Fillets
Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner. Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Lemons
Lemons add a bright, citrusy flavor to the sauce. Use fresh lemons for the best results, and don’t forget to zest them before juicing for extra flavor.
Garlic
Garlic is a fundamental ingredient in many sauces, and this one is no exception. Mince it finely to release its full flavor and aroma.
Unsalted Butter
Butter adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the dish, and soften it to room temperature for easier mixing.
Instructions
Let’s walk through every step of this recipe to ensure your creamy lemon garlic butter salmon turns out perfectly:
Step 1: Prep the Salmon , Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Sauce , In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Then, add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon , In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin), and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is crispy.
Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy , Remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate. Spoon the creamy lemon garlic butter sauce over the top of each fillet and garnish with chopped parsley.
How To Serve
This creamy lemon garlic butter salmon is versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:
Serve with roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded dinner.
Pair with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a filling and nutritious meal.
Try it with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing lunch.
For a special occasion, serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.
How To Keep Leftovers
Room Temperature
It’s not recommended to store cooked salmon at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If you need to store it for a short period, make sure it’s covered and kept away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerator
Cooked salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container and keep it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Freezer
Cooked salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
When reheating, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Top Tips
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor and texture, use fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the salmon and lemons.
Don’t Overcook the Salmon
Cook the salmon until it’s just cooked through, as overcooking can make it dry and tough.
Adjust the Sauce to Taste
Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning and lemon juice to your liking.
Experiment with Different Herbs
Try adding different herbs, such as dill or thyme, to the sauce for a unique flavor.
Make it Ahead of Time
The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This creamy lemon garlic butter salmon sauce is a simple yet impressive recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and tangy flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of salmon with a creamy and aromatic sauce.
Salmon Sauce: Creamy Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
Description
A simple and delicious salmon recipe with a rich and tangy creamy lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Then, add the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
-
In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin side up (if they have skin), and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until cooked through.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 200mg9%
- Potassium 400mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 35g70%
- Vitamin A 10 IU
- Vitamin C 20 mg
- Calcium 10 mg
- Iron 10 mg
- Vitamin D 10 IU
- Vitamin E 10 IU
- Vitamin K 10 mcg
- Thiamin 10 mg
- Riboflavin 10 mg
- Niacin 10 mg
- Vitamin B6 10 mg
- Folate 10 mcg
- Vitamin B12 10 mcg
- Biotin 10 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 10 mg
- Phosphorus 10 mg
- Iodine 10 mcg
- Magnesium 10 mg
- Zinc 10 mg
- Selenium 10 mcg
- Copper 10 mg
- Manganese 10 mg
- Chromium 10 mcg
- Molybdenum 10 mcg
- Chloride 10 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
You can adjust the amount of lemon juice and garlic to your taste. Also, make sure to not overcook the salmon, as it can become dry and tough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, this recipe is very beginner-friendly and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it's thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What can I serve with this recipe?
You can serve it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, or a simple green salad.
