Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

This Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce is an exquisite dish that will elevate any meal. With its creamy lemon sauce and perfectly seared salmon, this recipe is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, this dish impresses guests while being simple enough for a weeknight treat.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salmon
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
• Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
• Step 2: Sear the Salmon
• Step 3: Set Aside
• Step 4: Make the Sauce
• Step 5: Create Cream Sauce
• Step 6: Combine Salmon with Sauce
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
• With Fresh Greens
• With Starch
• With Grains
• With Garnishes
• How to Perfect Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
• Reheating Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What sides go well with Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce?
• Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
• How do I make Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce gluten-free?
• Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
• What is the best way to ensure my salmon skin is crispy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of lemon and dill in the cream sauce elevates the salmon to new heights.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet meal in under 40 minutes.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or a comforting family meal.
• Healthy Choice: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish visually stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment helps streamline the preparation of your salmon with lemon cream sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows even cooking and browning of the salmon fillets.
• Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps flip the salmon without breaking it apart.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure a perfect balance of flavors in the cream sauce.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes mincing garlic and chopping herbs quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

For Garnish

• Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

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How to Make Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up in the skillet. Sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip each fillet carefully and cook for another 5 minutes skin-side down until crispy.

Step 3: Set Aside

Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux.

Step 5: Create Cream Sauce

Gradually whisk heavy cream into the roux. Continue cooking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3–4 minutes. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Combine Salmon with Sauce

Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over each piece. Simmer gently for another 2 minutes to warm through.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot garnished with crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy your flavorful Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce!

How to Serve Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

Serving Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

With Fresh Greens

• Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad adds a peppery contrast that complements the creaminess of the salmon.
• Spinach: Sautéed spinach with garlic provides a vibrant green side that’s both nutritious and delicious.

With Starch

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base for the salmon.
• Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa side is a healthy alternative that absorbs the lemon sauce well.

With Grains

• Wild Rice Pilaf: This nutty pilaf offers a hearty texture that pairs excellently with the silky sauce.
• Pasta: Lightly tossed pasta, such as angel hair, can soak up any extra sauce while adding a satisfying element to the meal.

With Garnishes

• Lemon Wedges: Adding fresh lemon wedges on the side allows guests to enhance their dish to their taste.
• Fresh Dill Sprigs: A few sprigs of dill not only look appealing but also echo the flavors in the salmon.

How to Perfect Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

To achieve perfection in your Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold seasoning: Generously season your salmon fillets before cooking to enhance their flavor profile.
• High heat searing: Use medium-high heat for an excellent sear, ensuring crispy skin and moist flesh.
• Fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh dill and lemons for maximum flavor in your cream sauce.
• Don’t overcook: Cook the salmon until just done; it continues to cook slightly after being removed from heat.
• Resting time: Allow the salmon to rest briefly after cooking. This helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

When planning a meal around Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce, choosing the right side dishes can make all the difference. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus lightly steamed adds color and crunch without overwhelming flavors.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully and provide a savory contrast to the creamy sauce.
3. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with cucumbers and tomatoes brightens up the plate while remaining light.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb cauliflower rice seasoned simply makes for a great base that soaks up any leftover sauce perfectly.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini slices add a smoky flavor that pairs well with citrus notes.
6. Saffron Rice: Fluffy saffron-infused rice is aromatic and rich, creating an elegant backdrop for the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking salmon with lemon cream sauce can be simple, but many make mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the salmon before cooking. Always season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
• Overcooking the salmon: Overcooked salmon can become dry and tough. Aim for a perfect medium doneness by keeping an eye on the cooking time.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing through the sauce preparation can result in a watery texture. Allow it to simmer until it thickens properly.
• Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients matter, especially for sauces. Use fresh lemon and dill for the best flavor in your creamy lemon sauce.
• Ignoring presentation: Serving can impact enjoyment. Take time to plate your salmon nicely and garnish with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

• Place cooked salmon with sauce in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What sides go well with Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce?

Pair this dish with steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! This lemon cream sauce works well with trout or tilapia, giving you versatile options.

How do I make Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the lemon cream sauce ahead and store it separately until you’re ready to serve.

What is the best way to ensure my salmon skin is crispy?

Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon skin-side down. This helps achieve that perfect crispiness!

Final Thoughts

This delicious Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce recipe is not only impressive but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe tonight and enjoy a meal that tastes gourmet without requiring extensive effort!

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