Name: Baked Salmon With Lemon Butter Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Yield: 5
Ingredients: - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; - 1 tablespoon olive oil; - 1 minced garlic clove; - 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard; - 5 skinless salmon fillets about 5 oz./150 grams each; - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; - salt to taste; - ¼ cup unsalted butter; - 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves; - ½ cup heavy cream or half and half; - 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice optional; - 1 tablespoon parsley finely chopped; - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; - lemon slices for serving

Baked salmon with lemon butter cream sauce is a dish that never fails to bring a smile. Imagine the tender, flaky salmon, its richness perfectly complemented by the tangy, buttery sauce—it’s a balance that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. This recipe has become a favorite at family gatherings, always leaving plates clean and hearts full. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, inviting you to savor each bite.

I remember the first time I cooked this dish; the kitchen was filled with the aroma of fresh herbs and sizzling salmon. As I drizzled the silky sauce over the perfectly baked fish, my family gathered around the table, their eyes wide with anticipation. The joy of sharing such a delightful meal with loved ones made that dinner unforgettable.

Tracing the roots of a classic delight

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. This recipe has roots in classic French cuisine, known for its love affair with creamy, buttery sauces. Over the years, as cooking trends shifted towards healthier options, this dish evolved. Chefs started using less cream and more fresh ingredients like lemon and herbs to keep it light. The unique blend of rich and tangy flavors gives it a modern twist while preserving its timeless appeal. It’s a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation.

What’s in your kitchen basket?

Baked Salmon with a Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is like a cozy hug for your taste buds. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add a burst of flavor, ensuring every bite is a delight. Let’s dive into what makes this dish simply irresistible.

Lemon Juice 🍋: The zesty kick! This tart little wonder brightens the salmon, balancing the richness of the butter. If you’re in a pinch, lime juice offers an unexpected twist. Choose lemons that are firm and heavy for the juiciest yield. Rich in vitamin C, it’s a little boost for your immune system!
Olive Oil 🫒: The silky, heart-healthy base coats our salmon, keeping it moist and delicious. In a bind, avocado oil works wonders too. Opt for extra virgin for the best flavor. This kitchen staple is packed with antioxidants, making it not only tasty but nutritious.
Garlic 🧄: The aromatic charm! Garlic adds depth and warmth. If you’ve run out, shallots can step in, offering a milder kick. Look for cloves that are plump and firm. This little bulb is known for its potential heart health benefits.
Dijon Mustard 🥄: The tangy twist! Its sharpness cuts through the creaminess, creating a balanced profile. If Dijon’s not handy, whole grain mustard gives a delightful texture. A quality jar should be spicy and smooth, adding flair to any dish.
Salmon Fillets 🐟: The star of the show! Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, these fillets are succulent and flavorful. Cod or trout can be substitutes, though they bring different textures. Choose fillets with vibrant, firm flesh for the freshest taste.
Black Pepper 🌶️: The subtle heat! This spice enhances all other flavors without overpowering them. White pepper can be a milder alternative. Freshly ground peppercorns deliver the best aroma and taste. It’s a tiny powerhouse that can aid digestion.
Salt 🧂: The flavor enhancer! Salt brings out the natural flavors in other ingredients. Sea salt or kosher salt can be used for a different texture. Remember, a little goes a long way in elevating your dish without overpowering it.
Unsalted Butter 🧈: The creamy dream! It enriches the sauce, making it luxurious. Ghee is a great substitute if you’re looking for a nutty edge. For top quality, look for butter that’s creamy with a slight sweetness. It’s a decadent treat, in moderation.
Heavy Cream 🥛: The luscious body! This gives the sauce its richness. Half and half can lighten it up if you prefer. For the freshest cream, check the label for fewer additives. It’s a rich source of calcium, giving your bones some love.
Parsley 🌿: The fresh finish! Parsley brightens and adds a hint of earthiness. Cilantro could work, but it changes the flavor profile. Opt for bunches that are vibrant and crisp. This herb is a great source of vitamins A and K.
Lemon Slices 🍋: The garnish with a punch! These not only add flair but also a fresh aroma. They’re perfect for squeezing over your dish just before serving. Use them to add a burst of zesty freshness to each bite.

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 425°F / 220°C with the rack in the center.
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard. Mix well.
Place 5 skinless salmon fillets into the skillet, pour the mixture over the salmon fillets and rub. Season with ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and salt. Bake for 10-15 minutes in the preheated oven.
In the meantime, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Add 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in ½ cup heavy cream and bring to a boil. The sauce should thicken a little bit.
Take off the heat and stir in 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice if using. Garnish with 1 tablespoon parsley and season with ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and salt to your liking.
Pour the sauce over the baked salmon and allow to rest for 5-10 minutes.
Serve with lemon slices. Enjoy!

Your salmon toolkit: what do you need?🍽️

Cooking with ease is all about having the right tools at your fingertips. Here’s a small list of must-haves for any kitchen.

Sharp Chef’s Knife: A good chef’s knife is essential for precise chopping and slicing. It makes food prep quicker and safer. If you’re on a budget, a high-quality utility knife can be a versatile alternative.
Cutting Board: Protect both your countertops and your knife blades with a sturdy cutting board. Wooden or bamboo options are gentle on knives and eco-friendly.
Non-Stick Skillet: Perfect for searing salmon to perfection, a non-stick skillet ensures easy cleanup and less oil use. A cast iron skillet can also serve well if seasoned properly.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements, essential in baking and ensuring a balanced sauce, these tools are indispensable. In a pinch, a scale can help with conversions.
Whisk: This tool is fantastic for blending sauces smoothly and incorporating air into mixtures. A fork can be a makeshift option in its absence.

Investing in these basics not only saves time but enhances your cooking experience.

Simple steps to a delicious baked salmon👩‍🍳

Step 1: Ready the Oven
Crank up your oven to 425°F (220°C) and make sure the rack is sitting pretty in the middle. This temperature will help your salmon cook evenly and achieve that lovely, tender texture we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Blend the Marinade
Get your mixing bowl out and combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and good ol’ Dijon mustard. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and consistent. This marinade is going to infuse the salmon with rich, tangy flavors.
Step 3: Dress the Salmon
Lay your salmon fillets out in a skillet or baking dish. Pour the marinade over them, giving each fillet a little rub to ensure they’re well-coated. A sprinkle of ground black pepper and a pinch of salt will enhance the flavors. Pop them in the oven to bake for 10-15 minutes—just enough time for the salmon to cook through, turning pink and flaky.
Step 4: Initiate the Sauce
While your salmon works its magic, melt the butter in a saucepan over a low-medium flame. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds. The kitchen will be filled with that irresistible garlic aroma, which signals it’s time to move to the next step.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Base
Slowly add the heavy cream, letting it come to a gentle boil. You’ll notice it thickening slightly, which is exactly what we want for a rich, creamy sauce. Keep a watchful eye to prevent any scorching.
Step 6: Finalize the Sauce
Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the lemon juice if you’re feeling zesty. Sprinkle in the parsley, and season with black pepper and a dash of salt until it’s just right for your taste buds.
Step 7: Combine and Rest
Once the salmon is done, pour that luscious sauce over the fillets. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This short rest also helps the sauce to cling to the salmon.
Step 8: Serve in Style
Bring your masterpiece to the table with some fresh lemon slices on the side. They’re perfect for an extra burst of citrus flavor if desired. Enjoy your delectable dish!

Twists and tweaks for your delicious baked salmon

One delightful twist on this salmon dish involves trading the Dijon mustard for miso paste to create a rich, umami flavor. For a gluten-free take, ensure the mustard is gluten-free and serve with roasted vegetables instead of traditional sides. A vegan adaptation swaps salmon with firm tofu and uses coconut cream rather than dairy. I found the tofu absorbed the flavors beautifully, and the coconut cream added a tropical hint. For a Mediterranean spin, add capers and olives to the sauce, which offered a lovely, briny contrast. These variations brought exciting, new dimensions to the recipe!

Creative ways to present your salmon masterpiece

For a dinner party that’s sure to impress, consider serving your baked salmon with a touch of flair. Arrange the salmon fillets on a large, elegant platter, lightly drizzling more of that luscious lemon butter cream sauce over the top. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color, while a few lemon slices give a zesty visual cue.

Pair this delightful dish with a side of roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal. For a splash of fun, introduce a bowl of wild rice with slivered almonds. Your guests will be licking their plates clean, longing for more!

Sip companions for your salmon feast

When I’m digging into Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce, I love to have a refreshing drink by my side. A crisp, chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is spot on. It’s like a little dance party for your taste buds, cutting through the richness of the sauce with its effervescent zing. I sometimes opt for a cold cucumber mint cooler; it’s light and rejuvenating, balancing out the buttery goodness. If I’m feeling a bit fancy, a glass of iced green tea with a hint of jasmine works wonders.

Keeping leftovers fresh and tasty

Storing leftover baked salmon is a breeze. Simply wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container before popping it into the fridge, where it’ll be safe for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C), cover the salmon with foil, and warm it for about 15 minutes to keep it juicy. If you’re in a rush, using the microwave works too—just be sure to cover and heat it gently to avoid overcooking. Always ensure it’s reheated to an internal temp of 145°F (63°C) for safety.

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Mistakes in the kitchen? We’ve all been there. One common slip-up with this delectable salmon recipe is not preheating the oven properly. If the oven isn’t hot enough, the salmon won’t cook evenly, so be sure to preheat that oven!

Another potential pitfall is overcooking the salmon. Keep an eye on the timer, as even a few extra minutes can turn a tender fillet into a dry disappointment. Aim for that juicy, flaky perfection!

Lastly, when making the lemon butter cream sauce, don’t rush the garlic sautéing. A quick 30 seconds is all you need; otherwise, you risk a bitter taste.

Avoid these little mistakes, and you’ll have a beautifully baked salmon to savor and share!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before starting. This will help the fillets absorb all the lovely flavors of the lemon and mustard marinade.
What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, half and half works well. Alternatively, a mix of milk and a touch of cornstarch can give you a similar creamy consistency without the extra calories.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
Can I prepare the lemon butter cream sauce in advance?
Certainly! You can make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it on low, stirring until smooth again before pouring it over the hot salmon.
Is there a recommended side dish to serve with this salmon?
A crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables would pair beautifully with this rich and creamy salmon dish. Steamed asparagus or a light quinoa salad are also great options to complement the flavors.

Savor every bite of your culinary masterpiece!🎉

You’re almost there, my friend! This Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a true delight you won’t want to miss. Why not take a culinary leap and make it your own? Swap herbs, add a dash of spice, or even mix in your favorite veggies. Don your apron, grab that spatula, and let your creative juices flow. Remember, a recipe is just a starting point; your personal touch is the secret ingredient. Dive in and don’t be afraid to make some delicious waves in the kitchen!