This creamy herb salmon is a real showstopper! With rich garlic butter sauce drizzled on top, it’s perfect for impressing your loved ones or just treating yourself.
I love how easy it is to whip up this fancy dish. Just pan-sear the salmon, pour on that delicious sauce, and voilà—you have a meal that tastes like a fancy restaurant right at home! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you want an alternative, try using trout or even chicken breasts for a different protein option. Both can hold up to the rich sauce.
Shallots: They add a sweet, mild onion flavor. If you can’t find them, minced onion or green onions can work in a pinch. Just go easy on the green onions as they can be sharper.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. The sauce may not be as thick, but it will still taste great. If you need a non-dairy option, coconut cream is a good alternative.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill really bring this dish to life. If you’re out of fresh herbs, try using dried herbs. Use a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
White Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is an excellent swap. It maintains that nice flavor without the alcohol.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Thoroughly dry your salmon fillets before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil and salmon. A hot pan gives an immediate nice crust.
- Cook the salmon skin-side down first if it has skin. This helps keep the flesh moist.
- Look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should flake easily with a fork when done.
- Let the salmon rest for a minute after cooking. This helps keep it juicy.
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, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shallots, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for a mild heat)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Mixed greens, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salmon dish will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and roughly 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Then, season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This helps enhance the flavor of the salmon.
2. Sear the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets to the pan, skin side down (if your fillets have skin). Sear them for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden and crisp. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are just cooked through in the center. Then, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This will build a delicious flavor base for your sauce!
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and deglaze the pan by scraping any brown bits off the bottom with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer and reduce by half for about 3 minutes. This adds a depth of flavor to your sauce!
5. Add Cream and Mustard:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to combine all the flavors.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated. This creates a rich, creamy texture.
7. Stir in the Greens:
Next, add the chopped spinach, parsley, dill, and red chili flakes (if you’d like a little heat) into the sauce. Let the sauce thicken slightly for about 2 minutes until the greens are wilted and it becomes creamy.
8. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Return the salmon fillets to the pan, carefully spooning some sauce over the top. Allow them to warm together for 1-2 minutes so the flavors can marry perfectly.
9. Plate and Garnish:
Transfer the salmon to a plate and generously spoon more sauce on top. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of dill for a beautiful presentation.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salmon immediately with mixed greens or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy this creamy, herb-infused dish that’s sure to impress!
Bon Appétit! Enjoy this luscious salmon with its rich garlic butter sauce that truly makes it irresistible!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight or under cold running water. Pat it dry before cooking for the best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a non-dairy alternative, coconut cream works well too. Just keep in mind that the sauce will be less thick with these substitutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the salmon.
Can I Make This Sauce Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, substitute the salmon with a hearty vegetable like portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth or wine.
