This creamy lemon butter salmon is a dream come true for seafood lovers! It’s rich and buttery, with a zesty lemon twist that brightens every bite. Yum!
Honestly, the best part? It cooks quickly and makes you feel like a chef in no time! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. 🍋🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are perfect for this dish, but you can also use frozen fillets. Just make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking. Personally, I love using wild-caught salmon when possible for better flavor.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Both will provide a creamy texture!
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice really brightens the dish. If lemons are not available, bottled lemon juice can work, but I recommend fresh whenever possible. The zest adds a punch of lemon flavor too.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but the taste won’t be as strong. I love the smell of garlic cooking; it’s one of my kitchen favorites!
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with dry salmon fillets: Pat them with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Heat your skillet: It should be hot enough that it sizzles when the salmon hits the pan, but not so hot that it smokes.
- Cook skin-side down first: This helps protect the delicate flesh and develop a nice crust.
- Don’t rush the flip: Let the salmon cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes. Then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s just cooked through.
- Use a fork: To check doneness, use a fork to see if the salmon flakes easily but still looks moist inside.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked salmon every time!
Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Cooked rice or steamed vegetables, to serve (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy lemon butter salmon takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to complete this scrumptious dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving a nice sear! Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil or butter until it’s hot but not smoking. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down (if they have skin). Cook them for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. This will help form a golden crust. Then, carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through but still moist inside. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and place it on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant; be careful not to let it brown! Pour in the heavy cream, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. If you like a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes at this point! Stir in the chopped parsley as well.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top. Let everything heat together for an additional 1-2 minutes. Now it’s time to serve! Place the salmon over cooked rice or alongside some steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to spoon extra creamy lemon butter sauce over the fish and garnish with fresh lemon slices and parsley.
Enjoy your luscious Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon! It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method (placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water). Pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but your sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce and prevent it from getting too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or broccoli to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. This will not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also add some lovely colors!