Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines elegance and comfort on your dinner table. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. The rich flavors of the lemon butter cream sauce complement the tender salmon beautifully, creating a symphony of taste that will impress your family and friends. Not only is this dish tasty, but it also offers numerous health benefits as salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein. With minimal preparation time and straightforward cooking techniques, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again. Whether served alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish promises to satisfy all palates—making it a must-try for any seafood lover.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh or thawed fillets for maximum flavor; look for vibrant color without any dark spots.
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides richness without added salt; use high-quality butter for the best taste.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the sauce’s brightness; avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious texture to the sauce; opt for full-fat cream for a richer flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; mince finely to release maximum flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness as a garnish; feel free to substitute with dill or chives.
For the Sauce:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance overall flavor; adjust according to taste preferences.
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 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish skin-side down. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Step 4: Add Heavy Cream
Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking continuously. Let it simmer gently until it thickens slightly—about three minutes.
Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Salmon
Pour the lemon butter cream sauce evenly over the seasoned salmon fillets in the baking dish.
Step 6: Bake the Salmon
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Ensure all fillets are of uniform thickness for consistent cooking times.
- Temperature Control: Let salmon fillets reach room temperature before baking for more even results.
- Lemon Zest Addition: Add freshly grated lemon zest into your sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the lemon butter cream sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to use, gently reheat it on low heat while whisking until warmed through.
- Storing: Leftover baked salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it cools down before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat it in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through without drying out.
Suggestions for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Use Fresh Ingredients
When preparing your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, using fresh ingredients significantly enhances the flavor. Opt for fresh salmon fillets instead of frozen ones whenever possible. Fresh fish retains moisture and provides a richer taste. Additionally, use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled juice for a more vibrant acidity. Fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, can elevate the dish further. Ensuring all components are fresh will lead to a more delicious and fragrant sauce that complements the salmon perfectly.
Avoid Overcooking
One common mistake when baking salmon is overcooking it. Overcooked salmon becomes dry and loses its delicate texture. To ensure perfect doneness, monitor the cooking time closely. The ideal internal temperature for salmon is 145°F (63°C). Baking at 375°F (190°C) usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. Consider using a meat thermometer to check doneness without cutting into the fish, which can let juices escape.
Skipping the Marinade
Many people skip marinating their salmon before baking, which can result in a lack of flavor depth. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper can make a significant difference. Marinate your salmon for at least 30 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish. This step enhances both taste and tenderness. Remember that even a short marinade will infuse flavors effectively, making your dish more enjoyable.
Ignoring Presentation
Presentation plays an essential role in enjoying any meal, including Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce. Ignoring plating can diminish the overall dining experience. Take some time to arrange your dish appealingly on a plate. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs to add color and vibrancy. A well-presented meal not only looks inviting but also enhances the perception of taste.
FAQs
What sides pair well with Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce pairs beautifully with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside steamed asparagus or green beans for a fresh crunch. A light salad featuring mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the sauce perfectly. Additionally, roasted potatoes or quinoa work well as hearty accompaniments that absorb any extra sauce on your plate.
Can I prepare Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce in advance?
Yes! Preparing Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce in advance is entirely possible and can save you time during hectic weeknights or dinner parties. You can marinate your salmon earlier in the day or even overnight to enhance flavor absorption. When ready to bake, simply take it out of the refrigerator and proceed with cooking as directed. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times slightly if starting from chilled.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you want to make your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce lighter or cater to dietary restrictions, you can substitute butter with olive oil or ghee for similar richness without dairy content. Coconut oil also works well if you prefer a hint of sweetness; however, it may alter the flavor profile slightly. For a vegan alternative, try using plant-based butter that mimics traditional butter’s flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
How do I store leftovers from Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce?
To store leftovers from your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce properly, allow it to cool down completely first. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety standards. Leftover salmon typically stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in an oven set at low temperature or microwave until warmed through while avoiding overcooking again.
Conclusion for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
In conclusion, mastering Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce involves paying attention to detail throughout preparation and cooking processes. Remembering key suggestions such as using fresh ingredients enhances overall flavor while avoiding common mistakes ensures perfect results every time. Pairing it thoughtfully with suitable sides elevates your dining experience significantly too! Whether you’re preparing this dish for family dinners or special occasions, these tips will guide you toward achieving delicious outcomes that impress everyone at your table.
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a sumptuous dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your dinner table. This recipe features tender salmon fillets topped with a rich, creamy lemon butter sauce, creating a delightful balance of tanginess and richness. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this meal is not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, the dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can easily impress your family and friends with this gourmet delight.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and simmer for about three minutes until slightly thickened.
- Pour the sauce over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 392
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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