Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

Introduction

Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce is a classic dinner recipe that brings out the best flavors in salmon with minimal effort. Recently, I prepared this dish for my family, and it was a hit! The tender, flaky salmon paired with the rich and tangy sauce was absolutely delightful, and everyone raved about the taste. Even those who are usually not big fans of fish were pleasantly surprised. The lemon garlic sauce adds a smooth, creamy texture and a punch of flavor that takes the salmon to a whole new level. Here’s a complete guide to making this delicious recipe at home.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F and position the rack in the center of the oven.

Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard until well combined.

Season the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the fillets, ensuring each one is evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt and ground black pepper to taste.

Bake the Salmon:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce:
While the salmon bakes, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 20 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to thicken slightly, then remove from heat. Stir in the lemon juice (if using), sprinkle with 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 dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 5
• Calories per serving: Approx. 350 calories

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Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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How to Serve

• Drizzle the creamy lemon garlic sauce generously over each salmon fillet.
• Serve alongside starchy sides, such as mashed potatoes or wild rice, to balance the flavors.
• Add green vegetables, like steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus, for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra lemon slices and fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor.
2. Adjust the Lemon Juice: For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon juice to the sauce.
3. Watch the Baking Time: Salmon cooks quickly, so check it after 10 minutes to prevent overcooking.
4. Rest Before Serving: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.
5. Add Capers: For a tangy touch, sprinkle capers over the salmon before serving.

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Recipe Variations

• Herb-Crusted Salmon: Add chopped dill or basil to the marinade for an herbaceous twist.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes in the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Low-Calorie Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Honey-Dijon Flavor: Add a teaspoon of honey to the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Garlic-Lime Sauce: Substitute lime juice for lemon juice in the sauce for a different citrus profile.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of lemon risotto for a creamy and citrusy balance.
• Pair with roasted potatoes and a fresh green salad.
• For a lighter meal, serve alongside a quinoa or farro salad.
• Add crusty garlic bread for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Serve with grilled or roasted zucchini and bell peppers for a Mediterranean flair.

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Freezing and Storage

• To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To Freeze: Wrap each salmon fillet in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• To Reheat: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking or drying out. Add a little extra sauce if needed to keep the salmon moist.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use skin-on salmon. The skin adds a nice crispy texture, but you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the sauce up to a day ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving.
4. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
   Absolutely! Add veggies like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to bake alongside the salmon.
5. How do I know when the salmon is done?
   Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Can I grill the salmon instead?
   Yes, grill the salmon over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
7. What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?
   You can substitute with regular yellow mustard or a little mayonnaise for a different taste.
8. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
   Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work if needed.
9. Can I add white wine to the sauce?
   Yes, a splash of white wine in the sauce adds depth of flavor.
10. Can I double the sauce?
    Certainly! Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer extra for drizzling or dipping.

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Conclusion

This Baked Salmon with Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that brings a restaurant-quality meal to your table in under 30 minutes. With its perfectly cooked, flaky salmon and smooth, tangy sauce, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides for a balanced meal that’s both elegant and comforting. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and creamy goodness with every bite!

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