This creamy herb salmon is a true treat, topped with a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite feel special. It’s easy and quick to whip up for dinner!
You might just find yourself saying “I do” to this dish! I love serving it with some rice or veggies, adding a splash of color to the plate. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this dish. If fresh is not available, frozen salmon works too—just make sure to thaw it properly. You can also use trout or tilapia as alternatives.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. I love using heavy cream for its richness, but you can adjust based on your preference!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds amazing depth, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just remember, 1 clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder. I personally enjoy the bold flavor of fresh garlic.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and thyme elevate the dish’s flavor. If fresh herbs aren’t around, dried versions will work—just use about one-third of the amount. I always opt for fresh when possible, as it makes a big difference.
How Do You Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon just right is crucial for this recipe. Start with a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure the skin is removed. Here’s how:
- Heat the olive oil until shimmering before adding salmon; this ensures a nice sear.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes. Look for a golden crust and the fish should flake easily with a fork.
- Let it rest for a minute after removing, as it continues to cook slightly from residual heat, ensuring it’s tender and juicy.
Perfectly cooked salmon is moist with a lovely texture that pairs great with the sauce!
Marry Me Creamy Herb Salmon With Rich Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- For Garnishing:
- Lemon wedges
- Mixed greens or salad for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and delightful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. This helps to get a nice crispy surface. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned salmon fillets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Next, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt before adding the minced garlic. Sauté for around 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to brown it.
4. Add Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice. This will help deglaze the pan, so scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in Cream and Herbs:
Add the heavy cream and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce gently simmer until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Mix in the chopped parsley, dill, and thyme, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked salmon back into the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic butter sauce generously over the top. Allow it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is warmed through and the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Serve It Up:
Plate the salmon, drizzling some extra sauce on top for rich flavor. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges for a pop of freshness. Serve immediately alongside mixed greens or your favorite side dish.
This rich and luscious creamy herb salmon is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon is a great option! Just be sure to thaw it properly before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or quick-thaw in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry before seasoning for the best results.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten it up, you can use less butter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt, and reduce the amount of oil used for cooking. This way, you maintain flavor without sacrificing too much richness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce creamy.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with This Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Feel free to mix and match based on your cravings!
