Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Introduction

I made this Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a recent dinner, and let me tell you—it was an absolute hit. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but the combination of succulent salmon and shrimp paired with a rich, creamy garlic sauce made for a meal that felt both luxurious and comforting. My family was thrilled with the bold flavors, and it was ready in just 30 minutes! The creamy sauce brought everything together, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or looking for a quick, flavorful meal after a long day, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce

There are a lot of things to love about this dish. First, the combination of salmon and shrimp creates a winning flavor profile—tender, flaky fish with sweet, juicy shrimp. The creamy garlic sauce ties everything together in the most decadent way possible, with just the right amount of spice from red pepper flakes and a burst of brightness from lemon. It’s an elegant yet simple dinner that’s quick enough for a weekday meal but fancy enough for a special occasion. What really makes this recipe stand out, though, is how versatile it is. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with almost any side, so you can customize your meal based on what you’re craving.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Seafood

Start by seasoning both the salmon fillets and shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures the seafood is well-seasoned and ready to absorb all the flavors from the creamy garlic sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down if your fillets have skin. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is fully cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. The shrimp should be juicy and tender. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the salmon.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and is nice and creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Return both the cooked salmon fillets and shrimp to the skillet, spooning the creamy garlic sauce over the seafood. Allow everything to heat through for an additional 2 minutes. This will let the flavors meld together and ensure the seafood is nicely coated in the rich sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color, while the lemon juice brightens up the rich, creamy sauce. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 2
• Calories per serving: 590 kcal
• Total Fat: 37g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 47g
• Cholesterol: 155mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Calcium: 120mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

This Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to complete your meal:

• Rice: Fluffy white rice or a rich, buttery risotto would be perfect to soak up the creamy garlic sauce.
• Pasta: A simple spaghetti or fettuccine would make a great base for this dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Fresh vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Garlic Bread: If you’re craving something indulgent, garlic bread is always a winning choice.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes would complement the creamy sauce wonderfully.

Feel free to get creative and serve it with any side that complements your taste!

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Seafood: Fresh salmon and shrimp will make this dish taste even better. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
2. Adjust the Spice: The red pepper flakes add a little heat, but you can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer it mild, use just a pinch or skip them entirely.
3. Add More Vegetables: You can easily bulk up this dish with more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, either mixed into the sauce or served alongside the seafood.
4. Make it Low-Carb: For a low-carb version, serve this dish with cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini instead of regular rice or pasta.
5. Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers! Store any extra seafood and sauce in an airtight container for up to two days in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the seafood.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work just fine. Just be sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter version, but it will affect the richness of the sauce.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?

If you want a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

4. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other firm white fish like cod or halibut. Keep in mind the cooking time might vary based on the thickness of the fillets.

5. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the creamy garlic sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently before serving.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure that all the ingredients, including the Parmesan cheese, are gluten-free.

7. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream or almond milk in place of the heavy cream.

8. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the creamy garlic sauce for extra flavor and texture.

9. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.

10. Can I serve this with a side salad?

Absolutely! A light, fresh salad with a vinaigrette would pair wonderfully with the rich, creamy seafood.

Conclusion

Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a delicious, restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. The rich, garlicky sauce elevates the tender salmon and juicy shrimp, creating a well-balanced meal that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself on a weeknight, this recipe delivers on flavor and elegance without requiring hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a luxurious seafood dinner in just 30 minutes!

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