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Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

This easy and satisfying dish features pan-seared salmon fillets topped with a creamy and tangy lemon garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 4 fillets salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz. each)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
For the sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper, ensuring that they are evenly coated.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin) in the pan.
  2. Cook the salmon fillets for about 4-5 minutes. Don’t move them around too much—let that perfect crust develop! Once the edges look golden and crispy, flip them over gently using a spatula.
  3. After flipping the salmon, add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour the heavy cream into the pan, followed by the lemon juice. Stir gently to incorporate all the flavors. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Ensure the salmon is cooked to your liking. Depending on thickness, this could take another 3-5 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Serving
  1. Once cooked, remove the pan from heat. Serve the salmon over rice or vegetables, drizzled with the lemon garlic cream sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For substitutions, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream to lower fat content. Also, avoid overcooking for a moist salmon.