Description
This Simple Baked Salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a luscious zesty lemon butter cream sauce. Perfect for a quick and elegant weeknight dinner, it combines the richness of butter and cream with the brightness of fresh lemon and garlic for a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
For the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them evenly with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to your taste.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork, indicating the fish is cooked through.
- Make the Lemon Butter Cream Sauce: While the salmon is baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove the baked salmon from the oven and drizzle the warm lemon butter cream sauce over each fillet. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Notes
- Choose skin-on fillets for easier handling and added flavor, but skinless works well too.
- Adjust seasoning based on your preference or add a pinch of paprika for a smoky twist.
- The lemon butter cream sauce can be made ahead and warmed gently before serving.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
- If preferred, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
