Oh wow, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce! It’s a symphony of rich flavors that come together so easily, you’ll want to make it again and again. This recipe has become a family staple for our Sunday dinners, and I can still remember the first time I served it to my friends. The way the creamy lemon sauce pairs with the tender salmon is nothing short of magical! Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a hit for everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on its deliciousness and simplicity!

Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delightful dish! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce:

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure your salmon fillets are fresh for the best flavor. And don’t skimp on the lemon—both the juice and zest really elevate the sauce! Now that you’ve got everything, you’re all set to create some culinary magic!

How to Prepare Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Getting your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly and comes out perfectly flaky.
While the oven is heating up, place your salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets and season generously with salt and pepper. Give them a little massage to make sure they’re coated well!
Once your oven is ready, pop the baking sheet in and let the salmon bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the salmon flakes easily with a fork and has that gorgeous, rosy color in the center.
While the salmon is baking, let’s whip up that creamy lemon sauce! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!
Next, pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld into a rich, creamy sauce.
Once the salmon is done, take it out of the oven and drizzle that luscious lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving!

And there you have it—a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information per serving of this delicious baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities you use:

Calories: 350
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 25g

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy dose of protein and essential fats. So, dig in and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here’s why I think you’re going to adore it:

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of baking, you can have a stunning dish ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Rich Flavor: The creamy lemon sauce brings a zesty brightness that perfectly complements the tender salmon. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
Healthy Ingredients: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this dish not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for you and your family. Learn more about the health benefits of salmon.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is friendly for those avoiding gluten, so everyone can enjoy it without worry!
Flexible Pairings: It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from steamed veggies to fluffy rice, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and creamy sauce make for a dish that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing guests!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen!

Tips for Success with Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

To ensure your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!

Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for salmon fillets that are bright in color and have a mild smell. Fresh salmon will make a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you can, buy it from a reputable fishmonger!
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon while it bakes! Overcooking can lead to dry fish. Perfect salmon should flake easily with a fork but still have a bit of juiciness.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash of more cream or a bit of chicken broth to loosen it up.
Use Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness! You can also experiment with dill or chives—both complement salmon beautifully!
Pair Thoughtfully: Consider serving your salmon with sides that enhance its flavors. Steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a light cucumber salad are fantastic options that won’t overpower the dish.
Meal Prep Magic: If you’re short on time during the week, prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before drizzling over the salmon!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delightful dish. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Now that you’ve got your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce ready to shine, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! The right sides can really elevate this dish and bring out those incredible flavors.

Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make for vibrant, crunchy companions. Their freshness balances the richness of the sauce beautifully!
Fluffy Rice: A bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for soaking up that luscious lemon butter cream sauce. You could even add a bit of lemon zest to the rice for an extra zing!
Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Golden, crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs are a hearty addition that pairs perfectly with the salmon. Plus, who can resist a good potato?
Fresh Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for a bit of creaminess!
Quinoa or Couscous: For a healthy grain option, serve your salmon over a warm quinoa or couscous salad. You can mix in some lemon juice and herbs to tie everything together.

Feel free to mix and match these options based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for! Whatever you choose, your meal will be both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce (though I doubt it!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that amazing flavor intact. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers: Once your salmon has cooled down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in a baking dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat it gently in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, as this can make the salmon dry.
Serving with Sauce: If you have leftover lemon butter cream sauce, store it separately in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until warmed. Drizzle it over the reheated salmon for that fresh, zesty flavor!

With these simple steps, you can savor your baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce even after the first serving. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions about making this baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce, you’re in the right place! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Otherwise, you might end up with unevenly cooked salmon.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream!

How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance. A meat thermometer should read 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the fillet.

Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?
Definitely! You can mix in some capers or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor. Fresh dill or thyme also pairs wonderfully with the lemon and salmon!

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Just make sure to store the sauce separately for the best taste!

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: 5 Irresistible Steps

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is a flavorful dish that combines tender salmon with a rich and creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.
Remove salmon from the oven and drizzle with lemon butter cream sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste.
Serve with steamed vegetables or rice.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
Calories: 350
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: baked salmon, lemon butter cream sauce, salmon recipe, easy salmon dish

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