Oh, let me tell you, salmon with lemon cream sauce is one of those dishes that makes my heart sing! Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also super simple to whip up, which is a win-win in my book. I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a cozy evening cook-off with my best friend. We laughed as we sprinkled a little bit of this and that, and by the end of our culinary adventure, we had created a dish that felt a little fancy but came together so easily that it felt like a scam!
What I love most about this salmon recipe is how the tangy lemon cream sauce perfectly balances the richness of the fish, making every bite feel like a little celebration. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve for a fancy date night or a casual weeknight dinner. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What’s in Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce?
Salmon Fillets: The star of the show! Fresh salmon is not only tasty but rich in omega-3 fatty acids. I always prefer wild-caught salmon when available, as it has a better flavor and is more sustainable.
Lemon Juice: The bright and zesty lemon juice gives the sauce a refreshing zing that really lightens up the dish. Freshly squeezed is best, but if you’re in a pinch, don’t sweat it!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce velvety and rich. A splash of cream helps to bring all the flavors together. If you want a lighter alternative, feel free to swap it for half-and-half, but I promise the cream is worth it!
Dijon Mustard: This little ingredient adds a subtle tang that perfectly complements the lemon. It’s like a mini flavor explosion!
Garlic: I don’t know about you, but garlic is a non-negotiable in my kitchen! It brings depth to the sauce and makes everything taste so much better.
Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Plus, it gives a nice finishing touch to the dish.
Salt and Pepper: Just the basics to season! Always taste your food; it makes a world of difference.
Is Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish packs a healthy punch, thanks in part to our star ingredient, **salmon**. Salmon is loaded with healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health and brain function. Plus, it’s rich in protein, making it a fulfilling meal.
Now, while **heavy cream** does make this dish incredibly luscious, it’s also higher in calories and fat, so if you’re watching your intake, consider using it sparingly or opting for that half-and-half. And don’t forget the **lemon** – it’s a great source of vitamin C and adds a tangy flavor that brightens the meal. Overall, I’d say this dish is a delicious way to incorporate healthful ingredients into your diet!
Ingredients List
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Juice of 1 lemon (freshly squeezed)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Serves 4.
How to Make Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce?
1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will take a bit of time, so you can prepare the sauce while it’s heating up.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. I like a generous pinch – it really brings out the flavor!
3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if your fillets have skin). Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the salmon is golden brown.
4. While the salmon is searing, let’s get that luscious lemon cream sauce going! In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Once the salmon is nicely browned, pour the lemon cream sauce over the fillets. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color.
7. Serve your beautiful salmon with the creamy sauce drizzled on top, and enjoy!
Little Extra Tips for a Perfect Salmon
– If you want a tangier twist, toss in some capers for an added briny flavor.
– Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies; they soak up the cream sauce beautifully!
– Feel free to experiment by adding other fresh herbs like dill, which pairs wonderfully with salmon.
I genuinely hope you try this scrumptious salmon with lemon cream sauce! It brings back such fond memories for me, and I know you and your loved ones will enjoy it just as much. Don’t forget to share your experience and any little tweaks you made – I love hearing how recipes take on your personal flair! Happy cooking!
