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Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon

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This creamy lemon butter salmon features golden, flaky salmon fillets nestled in a velvety, citrusy sauce with just the right amount of zing. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a gourmet dinner that’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each, skin-on or off)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest from 1 large lemon
  • 2–3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Lightly dust the top of each fillet with flour.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add 1 tablespoon butter and swirl to coat the pan.
  3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden and the salmon releases easily. Flip and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Transfer the salmon to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
  5. Lower the heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in lemon zest and juice. Let simmer for 1 minute.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken slightly.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir in half the chopped herbs.
  9. Return the salmon to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 2 minutes, just until the salmon is heated through and flakes easily with a fork.
  10. Plate the salmon, spoon over sauce, sprinkle with remaining herbs, and serve with extra lemon wedges.

Notes

For best results, use salmon fillets of even thickness. Dry the salmon thoroughly before searing for a crisp crust. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and vegan butter; for gluten-free, use gluten-free flour. Add spinach, peas, or asparagus for extra veggies. The sauce thickens as it sits, so don’t worry if it’s runny at first. Leftovers keep for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon butter, creamy salmon, easy dinner, gourmet, skillet, weeknight, seafood, quick, low carb, gluten free option

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/creamy-lemon-butter-salmon-recipe-easy-gourmet-dinner-in-30-minutes/