This creamy herb salmon is a true showstopper! It features tender salmon fillets smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, making every bite feel like a special occasion.
I mean, who wouldn’t want to marry this dish? 😂 The blend of herbs and that buttery flavor is just heavenly. Serve it with some veggies or rice for a complete meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is ideal for this recipe, but you can substitute it with trout or even tilapia for a different flavor. Frozen salmon works too; just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream gives the dish its creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, you can try ghee or a vegan butter alternative that melts well.
Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley bring freshness to the dish. If you only have dried herbs, use about a third of the amount for a similar flavor. Chives or tarragon can also make lovely substitutes.
How Do I Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked Without Drying It Out?
Cooking salmon just right takes a little practice, but here’s how to nail it:
- Start by searing the salmon skin-side down for a crispy texture; this helps protect the fish from overcooking.
- The oven’s gentle heat finishes cooking the salmon evenly. Baking it for 8-10 minutes is usually perfect, but always check for flakiness with a fork.
- Remove from the oven when it’s slightly undercooked; the residual heat will finish the cooking process.
Remember, it’s better to undercook salmon slightly than to overdo it – it should be moist and tender! Serve immediately for the best texture.
Marry Me Creamy Herb Salmon With Rich Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salmon recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, so you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes total. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the salmon when you’re done searing it.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help them sear nicely. Season both sides of the salmon with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Sear the Salmon:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Sear them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. Then, gently flip the fillets and sear the other side for 2 minutes before removing the skillet from the heat.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned. This step is key for a flavorful sauce!
5. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
Add the heavy cream, chicken broth (or white wine), and Dijon mustard into the saucepan. Stir everything together, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes (if using), fresh dill, chopped parsley, and basil. Combine it all well and then remove the saucepan from the heat.
7. Pour the Sauce Over Salmon:
Now, pour the creamy herb garlic butter sauce evenly over the seared salmon fillets in the skillet.
8. Bake the Salmon:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and spoon some extra sauce over each salmon fillet. Garnish your dish with fresh lemon wedges and additional herbs if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Enjoy this luscious creamy herb salmon with the rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s perfectly balanced by fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon! It’s absolutely divine!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Avoid cooking it directly from frozen, as it may not cook evenly.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or coconut cream if you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that coconut cream may give a unique flavor to the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve This Salmon With?
This creamy salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes. A side salad or garlic bread would also complement the dish nicely!
