Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of salmon with a zesty, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who want to impress their guests or simply enjoy a gourmet meal at home. Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for dinner. The fresh taste of lemon brightens the dish while the creamy butter sauce adds an indulgent touch that elevates this meal to restaurant-quality dining. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, anyone can master this recipe in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this baked salmon will surely be a hit.
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: Fresh or frozen fillets work well; choose skinless for easier serving.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce; opt for full-fat heavy cream for the best texture.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice enhances flavor; zest adds aromatic oils.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide robust flavor; avoid pre-minced options for better taste.
For the Sauce:
- Dill (Fresh or Dried): Adds an herbaceous note that complements the salmon beautifully.
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 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season each fillet generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Slowly whisk in heavy cream along with lemon juice and zest.
Step 4: Add Seasoning
Stir in dill and adjust seasoning as needed. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Pour half of the lemon butter cream sauce over the salmon fillets. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates and drizzle with remaining sauce. Serve immediately alongside your favorite side dishes.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Ensure all salmon pieces are similar in size for consistent cooking times.
- Temperature Control: Allow ingredients like butter and cream to reach room temperature before mixing for smoother integration.
- Garnish Options: Top your finished dish with extra dill or lemon slices for added flavor and visual appeal.
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. Simply cook it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The salmon can also be marinated beforehand; just keep it covered in the fridge for up to two hours before baking.
- Storing: Leftover baked salmon should be stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; properly wrapped, it can last up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating only the sauce, warm it gently on low heat until heated thoroughly.
Suggestions for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce. Fresh salmon not only enhances the flavor but also ensures better texture. When you use frozen salmon, it may lack the vibrant taste and flaky consistency that fresh fish offers. Always check for bright, clear eyes, moist skin, and a pleasant odor when buying salmon. Additionally, opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled juice. Bottled varieties often contain preservatives that can alter the sauce’s taste. Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or dill in your dish will elevate its flavor profile and provide a delightful aroma.
Avoid Overcooking the Salmon
Overcooking is a common mistake that can ruin your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce. Salmon should be cooked until it flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside. The ideal internal temperature for perfectly baked salmon is around 145°F (63°C). To prevent overcooking, consider using a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If you don’t have one, keep an eye on the color of the fish; it should turn from translucent to opaque. Timing varies based on thickness, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to achieve that perfect flaky texture.
Don’t Skip Marinating
Marinating your salmon before baking can make a significant difference in flavor. A simple marinade made of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper allows the fish to absorb those delicious flavors. Avoid marinating for too long; 30 minutes to an hour is usually enough to infuse flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of the salmon. If you let it marinate longer than that, the acid from the lemon can start to “cook” the fish, resulting in an undesirable texture. Make sure to pat dry before applying your lemon butter cream sauce for an even better outcome.
Be Careful with Salt
Excessive salt can overpower your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce and mask its natural flavors. When seasoning your fish, use salt sparingly and taste as you go. Remember that added ingredients like soy sauce or capers may also contain salt, so adjust your seasoning accordingly. Instead of relying solely on salt, incorporate various spices and herbs to enhance flavor without compromising health benefits or taste integrity. A sprinkle of black pepper or paprika can add depth without overwhelming the dish’s overall flavor profile.
FAQs
What is the best way to serve baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce?
To serve baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce effectively, consider pairing it with light sides that complement its rich flavors. Steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach provides a refreshing contrast while remaining healthy options. You could also serve it alongside fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to balance out the sauce’s richness. A simple salad with mixed greens dressed lightly in vinaigrette adds freshness and rounds out the meal beautifully.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
While this recipe specifically highlights baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce, you can certainly substitute other types of fish if desired. Options like trout or cod work well due to their similar textures and mild flavors. Keep in mind that different fish may require slight adjustments in cooking times based on thickness and fat content. Ensure you monitor their doneness closely; they should flake easily yet retain moisture.
How do I store leftover baked salmon?
If you have leftover baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce, proper storage is key for maintaining its quality and freshness. Allow any leftover salmon to cool down at room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days; be sure not to leave it out too long as bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy leftovers again while preserving moisture.
Can I make my own lemon butter cream sauce?
Absolutely! Making your own lemon butter cream sauce is straightforward and enhances your dish significantly compared to store-bought varieties. Start by melting butter over medium heat and whisking in heavy cream until combined smoothly—this forms a rich base for your sauce. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice along with zest for extra zing, then season generously with salt and pepper to taste. This homemade version allows you total control over flavors and ensures freshness every time!
Conclusion for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
In summary, preparing baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce involves several essential steps that enhance both flavor and presentation. Using fresh ingredients plays a vital role in achieving optimal taste while avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking will help maintain a tender texture throughout your meal preparation process. Marinating brings additional depth without compromising natural flavors; thus, careful seasoning using less salt alongside complementary sides creates balance within this delightful dish! Enjoying this recipe will impress family and friends alike while staying true to healthy eating practices!
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a quick and delicious dish that elevates your dinner experience. This flavorful recipe combines the rich, flaky texture of salmon with a zesty lemon butter cream sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether you’re hosting friends for a special occasion or enjoying a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. It requires minimal prep time and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy home cooks. The brightness of the lemon enhances the natural taste of the salmon while the creamy butter sauce adds indulgence. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Unsalted butter
- Heavy cream
- Fresh lemon juice and zest
- Garlic
- Dill (fresh or dried)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place salmon fillets on the sheet; season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
- Whisk in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest; stir in dill and season as needed.
- Pour half the sauce over salmon; bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve with remaining sauce drizzled over the top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
