Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is hands down one of my favorite dishes. Growing up, my family often enjoyed fish night, and I could always count on salmon to be on the menu. The way it melts in your mouth paired with a tangy lemon garlic cream sauce creates a symphony of flavors. This is my go-to recipe whenever I want to impress my friends or treat myself to something special.
Why I Love Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
Salmon is not just delicious; it is also packed with nutrients. I love incorporating salmon into my meals because it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. It is also an excellent source of protein. Whenever I eat salmon, I always feel good about taking care of my body.
Ingredients for Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
To whip up this amazing Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce, you will need a few key ingredients. Here’s my list just for you:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets, skin on for flavor and crispiness
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of butter
For the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic (fresh is best)
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
To prepare the salmon, it’s important to start with high-quality fillets. I always prefer skin-on salmon because it adds extra flavor. First, make sure to pat the salmon dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get crispy when searing.
Season Your Fillets
Next, sprinkle salt and black pepper generously on both sides of the fillets. Seasoning your salmon well is key to bringing out its natural flavors. I like to let it sit for a few minutes while I get ready to cook.
Searing the Salmon
Now that your salmon is seasoned, it’s time to cook. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. When the oil is hot, gently place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet.
Cooking Time Counts
I usually let them cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them. This ensures that they develop a nice crust. Once you see the sides changing color, it’s time to flip. After flipping, add butter to the pan for added richness, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Checking for Doneness
When the salmon is cooked, it should flake easily with a fork. The center should still be slightly translucent for the best texture. Leaving it a little undercooked gives the cream sauce a chance to elevate the dish.
Making the Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce
While the salmon is resting, let’s prepare that luscious sauce. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low after removing the salmon. This helps keep that delicious salmon flavor in the sauce.
Sauté the Garlic
Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned. Adding it to an already hot skillet allows the oil to carry its flavor better.
Incorporating the Cream
Next, pour in the heavy cream. Stir it in and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet; they add depth to the sauce.
Finishing Touches
Now it’s time to add the lemon juice and zest. This brightens up the sauce and balances the richness of the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to taste-test along the way to get it just right.
Serving Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
I like to serve the Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some roasted vegetables. The sauce is incredibly versatile, so it works well with almost anything.
Garnish Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
To finish, pour the sauce generously over the salmon and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. The green adds a touch of color and freshness to the plate.
Cook Once, Enjoy Twice: Leftover Ideas
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, there are plenty of tasty options. I like to flake the salmon and mix it into a salad or use it for salmon tacos. The creamy sauce remains delicious even after a day in the fridge.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover salmon and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Just be sure to treat the salmon delicately to keep it from getting dry.
Nutrition Benefits of This Dish
This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds, but it also brings plenty of nutrition to the table. Salmon is considered a fatty fish because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce inflammation and support brain function.
Healthy Fats and Proteins
The heavy cream adds richness, but don’t let it scare you away. Moderation is key, and the healthy fats from the salmon help balance it out. Each serving offers a well-rounded meal with proteins, fats, and even some vitamins from the garlic and lemon.
Why You Should Make Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
If you want a meal that feels fancy without the fuss, this Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is for you. It’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or a special treat for yourself.
An Easy Crowd-Pleaser
The dish is easy enough for cooking beginners yet elegant enough to impress even the most discerning guests. Trust me, once you serve this salmon, it will be requested again and again.
Enjoying Your Creamy Pan Seared Salmon
Cooking has become a joy for me, especially when I get to share delicious meals with loved ones. Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is a dish that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe has a way of making meals memorable.