Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a delightful seafood dish? Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. This recipe highlights the succulent flavor of salmon while adding a zesty and creamy twist that elevates it to a gourmet level. Let’s dive into this delectable meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering baked salmon, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Zest of one lemon
– Juice of one lemon
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Optional: lemon slices for serving
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a rich and flavorful baked salmon dish. Make sure to choose fresh salmon fillets for the best taste and texture.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. A hot oven ensures that the salmon cooks evenly, resulting in a tender and flaky texture.
Prepare the salmon fillets by patting them dry with paper towels. This step helps to achieve a nice sear on the fish when baked. Next, drizzle olive oil over each fillet and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Place the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking during cooking.
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit, and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
While the salmon is baking, prepare the lemon butter cream sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring continuously. This process ensures that the sauce thickens properly without burning.
Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the sauce. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and let simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Once ready, remove the sauce from heat and set aside. If desired, you can blend it briefly with an immersion blender for an ultra-smooth texture.
When your salmon is finished baking, remove it from the oven carefully. Drizzle generous amounts of lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet just before serving.
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Lemon slices can also be placed alongside as an attractive presentation option.
Serve your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce immediately while it’s hot. Pair it with steamed vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.
This baked salmon recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of flavors will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied every time you make it!
Tips and tricks
When preparing Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, consider these helpful tips to ensure a delightful dish every time. First, choose fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor. Look for bright, moist flesh with minimal odor. Next, season the salmon generously with salt and pepper before baking. This simple step enhances the overall taste.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to create the perfect cooking environment. Bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness. Keep an eye on it; overcooking can lead to dryness. For added flavor, you can marinate the salmon in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
The lemon butter cream sauce is crucial in this recipe. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness and add heavy cream for a rich consistency. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for maximum citrus flavor. Finally, garnish your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to elevate its presentation.
FAQs
What is the best side dish for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
A great side dish to pair with Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce includes steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach. Both vegetables complement the rich flavors of the sauce while adding healthy nutrients to your meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad for a balanced dinner plate. Consider adding a fresh salad topped with lemon vinaigrette to enhance the meal’s freshness.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce. However, thawing it properly is essential. Place the frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in cold water for quicker thawing. Once thawed, pat dry and season as you would with fresh salmon. Cooking times may vary slightly; ensure that the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving.
How do I store leftovers of Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
To store leftovers of Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, first allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The dish will stay fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through but avoid overheating, as it could dry out the fish or sauce.
This delightful recipe captures flavor and simplicity in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce promises satisfaction and ease in preparation.