Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with a velvety, citrus-infused sauce. The pan-seared salmon fillets are bathed in a creamy lemon butter sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Full Recipe:
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 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
Extra herbs like thyme or chives
Season and Sear the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the salmon fillets.
Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or dill over the salmon.
Serve the salmon with lemon wedges and additional herbs, if desired.
Calories: 298 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 97 mg
Sodium: 572 mg
Potassium: 111 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Vitamin A: 1370 IU
Vitamin C: 5 mg
Calcium: 50 mg
Iron: 1 mg