Description
This quick and easy oven-baked salmon is topped with a creamy lemon butter sauce that feels fancy and is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 fillets Salmon fillets (skin on or off, both work)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (Just a little for the baking dish)
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp Butter (This is the comfort part)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best, but jar garlic works in a pinch)
- 1 cup Heavy cream (Or half and half for a lighter sauce)
- 1 large Lemon (Zest plus juice if you can)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (Optional, but it adds a nice little tang)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan (Optional, for a thicker, slightly salty finish)
- 1/4 cup Fresh herbs (Such as parsley or dill)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat your oven to 400 F. Lightly oil your baking dish.
- Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. Place it in the dish.
Cooking
- Bake for about 10 to 14 minutes, depending on thickness.
- While the salmon bakes, make the sauce. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and stir for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in cream, add lemon zest and juice, and Dijon if using. Simmer gently for 2 to 4 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add salt, more lemon, or Parmesan if desired.
- Plate the salmon and spoon the sauce over the top. Finish with fresh herbs.
Notes
Great sides include roasted vegetables or rice. Keep salmon moist by not overbaking and letting it rest briefly after cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Seafood