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Lemon Butter Cream Sauce Salmon Recipe

4.6 from 105 reviews

This delicious baked salmon recipe features a tangy lemon butter cream sauce that perfectly complements the tender, flaky fish. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a perfect healthy dinner option that balances creamy richness with bright citrus notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Marinade

  • 5 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz./150 grams each)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 minced garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half and half)
  • 12 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon parsley (finely chopped)
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Lemon slices for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) with the rack positioned in the center to ensure even cooking.
  2. Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tablespoons old-style Dijon mustard. Mix well to create the marinade.
  3. Marinate Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a skillet or baking dish, pour the marinade over them, and rub it evenly on each fillet. Season with ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and salt to taste.
  4. Bake Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
  5. Make Lemon Butter Sauce: While the salmon bakes, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low to medium heat. Add 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  6. Add Cream and Thicken Sauce: Pour in ½ cup heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
  7. Finish Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in 1-2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice if you like extra tang. Add 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley, season with ½ teaspoon ground black pepper and salt to taste.
  8. Serve: Pour the lemon butter cream sauce over the baked salmon fillets and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve with lemon slices on the side. Enjoy your meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute half and half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for 30 minutes before baking if time allows.
  • Ensure not to overcook the salmon for moist and tender results.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon zest for added freshness.
  • Adjust seasoning of the sauce to your preference, especially the salt and lemon juice.

Keywords: baked salmon, lemon butter cream sauce, quick salmon recipe, healthy dinner, creamy lemon sauce, seafood recipe