Salmon With Lemon Cream Sauce

Here’s a mouthwatering and elegant recipe for Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce — easy enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for guests!

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Salmon with Lemon Cream Sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

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Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Lemon Cream Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter version)
• ⅓ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus extra for serving)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Salmon:
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook salmon fillets skin-side down first, about 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden.
   • Remove salmon and set aside.
2. Make the Lemon Cream Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
   • Stir in the cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan (if using).
   • Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
     (Don’t boil — it can separate!)
3. Finish the Dish:
   • Return the salmon to the pan and spoon sauce over the top.
   • Simmer another 1–2 minutes just to warm through.
4. Serve:
   • Plate salmon fillets and drizzle with extra sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and an extra squeeze of lemon.

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Tips:

• Don’t overcook the salmon! It should be just opaque and flake easily with a fork.
• For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine with the broth.
• Want a lighter version? Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free twist.