This creamy garlic butter salmon is a treat! It’s made with juicy salmon fillets cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
Honestly, who doesn’t love buttery goodness? I love serving this dish with pasta or rice to soak up every drop of that sauce—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: This recipe shines with fresh salmon fillets. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or even tilapia. Both work well with the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work, but it may not be as creamy. Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the way to go for this dish since it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with margarine or olive oil, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute. Use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove when swapping.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, fresh cilantro or green onions can be used for a different twist.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Salmon Sear?
Searing salmon can seem tricky, but it’s simple once you get the hang of it. The goal is to create a nice golden crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here are some tips:
- Start with a hot skillet! Heat up the olive oil until shimmering before adding the salmon.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook salmon in batches if needed to keep the heat high.
- Let it cook undisturbed for the first few minutes. This helps develop that beautiful crust. Flip carefully with a spatula.
With patience and attention to heat, you will nail that perfect sear!
Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off according to preference
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy garlic butter salmon recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or impressing guests on weekends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, making sure they are well-coated.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the salmon fillets in the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until a lovely golden crust forms. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and tender. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant but not burned.
4. Add Cream and Season:
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to combine it with the garlic butter mixture. Let it gently simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, fresh parsley, and lemon juice if you’re using it. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and add red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic butter sauce over the top. Let everything warm together for another 1-2 minutes. Then, serve the salmon fillets accompanied by generous spoonfuls of the rich sauce and garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Enjoy your luscious creamy garlic butter salmon with delicious sides such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or buttery rice to soak up all that flavorful sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking! The best way is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can place the sealed salmon in cold water for about 30 minutes to quickly thaw.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream, but keep in mind it will add a distinct coconut flavor to the dish.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy garlic butter salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet when making the sauce. Just sauté them for a few minutes before adding the cream for added flavor and nutrition!
