Description
This Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal featuring tender salmon fillets baked to perfection and topped with a rich, tangy lemon garlic sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe combines fresh flavors with a creamy sauce that complements the natural taste of the fish beautifully, making it an ideal dinner option for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 5 skinless salmon fillets (about 5 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Lemon slices, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the center to ensure even cooking of the salmon.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined to create a flavorful marinade for the salmon.
- Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the fillets, making sure each piece is well coated. Sprinkle with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake the Salmon: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through but still moist and tender.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the salmon is baking, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 20 seconds until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let the sauce thicken slightly before removing it from heat. Stir in fresh lemon juice (if using), chopped parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Drizzle the creamy lemon garlic sauce over the baked salmon fillets. Let the salmon rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure not to overbake the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice in the sauce to your taste preference.
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor in both the marinade and sauce.
- This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like rice, vegetables, or salad.
- Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
