Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe

Salmon is one of the most versatile and flavorful types of fish you can cook, and when it’s paired with a rich, creamy lemon garlic sauce, it takes the dish to the next level. This Creamy Pan-Seared Salmon is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when you want to impress guests without too much effort. The crispy pan-seared skin adds texture, while the creamy lemon garlic sauce complements the fish with its tangy and savory flavors.

Whether you’re a salmon lover or just trying to incorporate more fish into your meals, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s quick, easy, and downright delicious!

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

1. Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until the salmon is cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter.
2. Once the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and thyme to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the fish.
2. Let the salmon heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Pan-Seared Salmon

1. Use Fresh Salmon

For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Frozen salmon can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When searing the salmon, ensure there’s enough space between each fillet so they cook evenly. Overcrowding the pan can cause the salmon to steam rather than sear.

3. Crispy Skin Tip

If using skin-on salmon, pat the skin dry before cooking. This will help achieve a crispier skin. Cook the salmon skin-side down first for that irresistible crunch.

4. Adjust the Creaminess

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. However, this will make the sauce less creamy.

5. Serve with Complementary Sides

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or rice pilaf.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with Pasta

This creamy lemon garlic sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta. Serve the salmon on top of a bed of pasta like linguine or fettuccine for a complete meal.

2. Low-Carb Option

For a low-carb meal, serve the salmon with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. The rich sauce complements these lighter sides beautifully.

3. Add Greens

For a healthier twist, serve with a side of sautéed spinach or a green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a dish that delivers on both flavor and ease. The tender salmon paired with a rich, zesty sauce makes for a restaurant-quality meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making this for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

FAQs

1. Can I use skinless salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless salmon if you prefer. However, searing salmon with the skin on adds a crispy texture that many people enjoy.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce. Keep in mind that the sauce will be thinner.

3. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

Salmon is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F or when it flakes easily with a fork.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh. However, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently over low heat before adding the salmon.

5. Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use other firm fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia in place of salmon.

Yield: 4

Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

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Salmon is one of the most versatile and flavorful types of fish you can cook, and when it’s paired with a rich, creamy lemon garlic sauce, it takes the dish to the next level. This Creamy Pan-Seared Salmon is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when you want to impress guests without too much effort. The crispy pan-seared skin adds texture, while the creamy lemon garlic sauce complements the fish with its tangy and savory flavors.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (skinless or with skin)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional for thinning sauce)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
   
2. Sear the Salmon:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is golden and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. If the sauce becomes too thick, add the chicken broth to thin it out.
   
4. Return Salmon to the Skillet:
   Place the seared salmon back into the skillet and spoon the lemon garlic cream sauce over the fillets. Let the salmon simmer in the sauce for about 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
   
5. Serve:
   Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the salmon with the creamy lemon garlic sauce over rice, pasta, or sautéed vegetables.

Notes

Salmon Cooking Tip: Avoid overcooking the salmon. It should be slightly opaque in the center for perfect tenderness.

Flavor Variations: You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Make Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving. Salmon is best cooked fresh.