Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with a zesty and creamy sauce. It is simple to prepare and brings a taste of elegance to your dining table. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon is a great idea for several reasons. First, salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for your meals. Second, the creamy lemon sauce adds a wonderful flavor that is both bright and comforting. Lastly, this recipe is quick to prepare, requiring only about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them in the skillet, skin-side down.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Cook for an additional minute, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon is best served hot. You can pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The creamy sauce is perfect to drizzle over your sides for added flavor.
How to Store Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salmon will stay good for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the fish.
Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Keep an eye on the salmon while cooking to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.
Variation
You can add capers to the sauce for a briny flavor, or toss in some spinach just before serving for added nutrition and color.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option, but it may change the texture and taste slightly.
3. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon with family and friends!
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces salmon fillets (6 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 piece lemon, juiced Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them in the skillet, skin-side down.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Cook for an additional minute, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
