This creamy lemon butter salmon is a showstopper! With a rich, buttery sauce and zesty lemon, it makes every bite feel special. Plus, it cooks up super fast!
I love how this dish brightens up my dinner table. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal that’s ready in no time. Trust me, it’s a winner! 🍋🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this recipe, but you can substitute with trout or even chicken if needed. Keep in mind cooking times may vary!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream gives a rich texture, you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
White Wine: The white wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can skip it if you prefer. A splash of lemon juice or chicken broth works well too!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best, but garlic powder can be an alternative in a pinch. Just reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon.
Red Pepper Flakes: These give a nice kick, but feel free to omit them for a milder flavor or use paprika for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon perfectly ensures a tender, flaky texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with room temperature fillets. Let them sit out for about 15 minutes before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat for the initial sear. This helps to develop a crispy outside while keeping the inside moist.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Look for the salmon to change color and become flaky on the edges. If unsure, you can use a fork to check for doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one! Salmon is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C).
Enjoy cooking your salmon to perfection!
How to Make Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salmon dish takes about 25 minutes from start to finish. It includes about 5 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. In less than half an hour, you’ll have a rich and zesty meal ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Salmon:
Start by generously seasoning both sides of your salmon fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the fish as it cooks.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets in the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about a minute until it’s fragrant but be careful not to let it brown, as it will become bitter.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze, which means you’ll scrape up the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly, intensifying the flavor.
5. Add Cream and Lemon:
Now, stir in the heavy cream, juice, and zest of your lemon. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy base is what makes the dish special!
6. Spice It Up:
If you’d like a little heat, add in the crushed red pepper flakes and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a lovely freshness to the sauce.
7. Combine and Heat:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for about 1-2 minutes to reheat the salmon and blend the flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your creamy lemon butter salmon with lemon slices and extra fresh parsley. Serve immediately alongside your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables or fluffy rice. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, tangy, and buttery creation!
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like dill or thyme can add wonderful flavor. If using fresh, double the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Stir them in towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or a bit of broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or almond milk, though it will change the flavor slightly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To give your salmon a kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level!
