This creamy herb salmon is a showstopper! With a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s so tasty you’ll want to make it for a special occasion—or just because you deserve it!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and the aroma will get everyone gathered around the table. Trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser, and it might just earn you a “yes!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a budget option, you can use canned salmon or even trout. Both have great flavor, and trout has a nice buttery texture, too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for the sauce, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. I’d recommend using 1/8 teaspoon of powder for each clove of fresh garlic. Just remember, fresh really does pack more flavor!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy option like coconut milk. Just keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly, but still delicious.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and dill make a big difference in taste. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried versions will work—use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Salmon Perfectly?
Searing salmon can be tricky, but the key is to keep the heat medium-high and let it cook undisturbed for those crucial first few minutes. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a dry fillet to help it crisp. Pat it with paper towels before seasoning.
- Preheat your skillet with oil and butter until hot—this ensures a nice sear.
- Place the fillets skin-side down (if they have skin) and resist the urge to move them for a few minutes.
- When the salmon releases easily from the skillet, it’s ready to flip—about 4-5 minutes.
- Flip gently, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through.
Following these steps will give you beautifully seared salmon with a crispy texture!
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 on or off as preferred
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of half a lemon
For Serving:
- Optional: Lemon wedges
- Mixed greens or side salad
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but elegant enough to impress guests on special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step helps get that beautiful sear! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Searing the Salmon:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted and hot. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to crisp up and the salmon to cook about two-thirds of the way through.
3. Flipping the Salmon:
Gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until they are cooked through but still moist inside. Once done, remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside on a plate. You can cover it with foil to keep it warm.
4. Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, throw in the minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Make sure not to let it brown, or it will get bitter!
5. Deglazing the Pan:
Pour in the chicken broth (or wine) to deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it reduce for about 1-2 minutes.
6. Adding Cream and Flavor:
Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to gently simmer and thicken for about 2-3 minutes. This will make it creamy and flavorful!
7. Adding Fresh Herbs:
Add the chopped parsley, basil, and dill to the sauce, reserving a sprinkle for garnish. Stir everything together and taste. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serving the Dish:
Return the salmon to the skillet to coat it with the creamy herb sauce gently. Alternatively, you can pour the sauce over each salmon fillet once plated.
9. Garnishing:
Add some extra dill sprigs and lemon wedges on the side for garnish, making it look even more inviting!
10. Enjoying Your Meal:
Serve the salmon immediately with a fresh green salad or your favorite sides. It’s the perfect meal to impress anyone, and it’s quick enough for any casual dinner!
Enjoy this rich, creamy herb salmon with decadent garlic butter sauce—a true treat for any seafood lover!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely beforehand. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also place the wrapped salmon in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still create a tasty sauce!
How do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent it from drying out. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like spinach or asparagus to the sauce while it simmers. They’ll soak up the flavors and complement the salmon beautifully. Just make sure the veggies are tender but still vibrant!
