Creamy Herb Garlic Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Herb Garlic Salmon is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly easy to prepare. The creamy sauce is infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon, which elevates the natural richness of the salmon. The fish itself cooks quickly, and the creamy sauce comes together effortlessly, making this dish both sophisticated and simple to make. It’s perfect for those who love salmon or are looking for a flavorful way to enjoy fish with a creamy, herby sauce.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the salmon)

• 1 tablespoon butter (for the sauce)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for richness)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the salmon:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

• Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the creamy garlic sauce:

• In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn the garlic.

• Add the chicken broth (or white wine) and stir to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.

• Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), thyme, oregano, and lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

3. Add Parmesan (optional):

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese if you’re using it, and cook for an additional minute until the sauce becomes rich and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

4. Combine the salmon with the sauce:

• Gently return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy herb sauce over the top. Let the salmon sit in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, just to warm through and allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve:

• Transfer the salmon to serving plates and spoon more of the creamy herb sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 people

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Use different herbs: You can experiment with fresh dill, basil, or tarragon instead of thyme and oregano for different flavor profiles.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce for a bit of heat.

• Make it low-carb: Serve this dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.

• Add vegetables to the sauce: You can add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce to make it even more flavorful and hearty.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Creamy Herb Garlic Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to overcook the salmon.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish such as trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets, as thinner fish will cook faster than salmon.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat the sauce gently before adding the cooked salmon.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. Use dairy-free butter and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free version.

Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it?

Yes, you can grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it. Simply season the fillets and grill over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Then, prepare the sauce as instructed and spoon it over the grilled salmon.

Conclusion

Creamy Herb Garlic Salmon is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that is sure to impress anyone who loves salmon. The creamy, herby sauce adds richness and depth to the tender salmon, making it a perfect dish for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying meal!

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