Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Introduction

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides for any occasion. The rich and flaky texture of the salmon combined with a creamy, tangy lemon butter sauce creates a harmonious and indulgent meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a special event or looking for a quick yet gourmet option for a weeknight meal, this dish is versatile and simple to prepare. The fresh ingredients and bright flavors will bring a touch of sophistication to your dining table, all while being completely halal and free from any pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Special occasions
• Holiday meals
• Elegant weeknight dinners
• Serving guests with dietary restrictions (Halal)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce will become your go-to seafood dish:

• Rich and Buttery Flavor: The salmon is delicately baked to perfection, and the creamy lemon butter sauce is the perfect complement, offering a smooth, rich flavor with a hint of citrus brightness.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with health benefits.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can prepare a delicious, restaurant-quality meal in less than an hour.
• Customizable: The lemon butter sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste. You can make it as tangy, garlicky, or creamy as you prefer, and add herbs or spices to personalize the flavor.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe adheres to Halal dietary guidelines, making it suitable for those who follow a Halal diet.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 7g, Fat: 33g (with some healthy fats from the salmon)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:

• For the Salmon:
  • 4 boneless, skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added flavor)
• For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for a little tang)
  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese (optional for added richness)

Ingredient Highlights

• Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and protein, salmon is a healthy and flavorful fish that makes a perfect main dish.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to coat the salmon fillets before baking, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest bring a refreshing brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the salmon and cream sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich. It’s the key to the creamy texture of the sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps to create a smooth texture.
• Garlic: Garlic enhances the savory flavor profile of the dish, giving it depth and complexity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Salmon:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help achieve a crisp texture when baking.
3. Season the Salmon: Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest on top for extra flavor. Rub the seasonings evenly over the salmon.
4. Bake the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).

Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce:

5. Melt the Butter: While the salmon is baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
6. Cook the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
7. Add the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version) and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reducing the heat to low. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little extra tang, add Dijon mustard and stir to incorporate. For a richer sauce, you can also stir in some grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Simmer and Stir: Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and smooth.

Assemble the Dish:

10. Serve the Salmon: Once the salmon fillets are done baking, remove them from the oven and place them on serving plates.
11. Pour the Sauce: Spoon the warm lemon butter cream sauce over each salmon fillet. Make sure to drizzle it generously over the fish.
12. Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Vegetables: Pair the salmon with roasted or sautéed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, green beans, or spinach. The fresh and vibrant vegetables complement the richness of the salmon and sauce.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. The grains soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite even more flavorful.
• With Mashed Potatoes: For a comfort food option, serve the salmon with creamy mashed potatoes. The velvety potatoes pair perfectly with the creamy lemon sauce.
• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed in a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• With Fresh Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the leftover sauce. A side of garlic bread would also work wonderfully to complement the garlic-infused sauce.

Additional Tips for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Here are some tips to make your Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce even better:

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Keep a close eye on the salmon while it bakes. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough fish. Bake until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is just cooked through.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer. If it becomes too thick, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
• Customize the Sauce: You can add fresh herbs like dill or tarragon to the sauce for a more herbal flavor. Alternatively, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat to the sauce.
• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon will give the best flavor and texture, but frozen salmon can also work well. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

Recipe Variations of Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Here are a few variations of the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce and salmon that you can try:

• Herb-Infused Salmon: Add fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley to the salmon before baking for an added burst of fresh flavor.
• Spicy Lemon Butter Sauce: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the lemon butter cream sauce.
• Garlic Parmesan Salmon: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salmon before baking for a cheesy crust. You can also add Parmesan to the cream sauce for a richer flavor.
• Coconut Cream Sauce: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and adjust the seasonings to balance the sweetness of the coconut.
• Baked Salmon with Pesto: Top the baked salmon with a drizzle of pesto for an Italian-inspired twist.

Freezing and Storage for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

• Freezing: While salmon is best when fresh, you can freeze the baked salmon for up to 3 months. Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
• Storage: Leftover salmon with sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overcook the salmon.

Special Equipment for Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet or roasting pan will help cook the salmon evenly in the oven.
• Saucepan: A medium saucepan is ideal for making the lemon butter cream sauce.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer can help ensure the salmon is perfectly cooked (145°F/63°C).
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate measurements of ingredients like lemon juice, mustard, and cream.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping herbs and cutting the salmon fillets.

FAQ Section of Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

1. Can I use skin-on salmon fillets? Yes, skin-on fillets work just as well. The skin will crisp up nicely when baked, but you can also remove it before serving if you prefer.
2. Can I use frozen salmon fillets? Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before baking.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it gently before serving.
4. What other sides can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or a simple mixed greens salad. You can also serve it with couscous or pasta.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, simply use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter for the sauce. Ensure you use a dairy-free Dijon mustard if using it.

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Conclusion of Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce

Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Cream Sauce is a rich, indulgent, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flaky, tender salmon and creamy, zesty lemon sauce, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a comforting dinner for your family, this recipe is simple to make, customizable, and sure to impress. Plus, it’s halal-friendly, making it suitable for everyone. Enjoy!