Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon 

Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with a zesty, velvety sauce. The pan-seared fillets are enveloped in a creamy lemon butter sauce, offering a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, approximately 6 oz each)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/3 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon wedges

• Additional fresh herbs like thyme or chives

Directions

1. Prepare the Salmon:

   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

   • Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Sear the Salmon:

   • Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the salmon fillets to the skillet.

   • Cook the fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

   • Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

   • Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

   • Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).

   • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.

   • Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

   • Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or dill over the top.

   • Serve the salmon with lemon wedges and additional herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal

• Protein: Approximately 45g

• Fat: Approximately 35g

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g

• Fiber: Approximately 1g

• Sugar: Approximately 2g