Description
Succulent salmon marries zesty lemon sauce in this Mediterranean-inspired delicacy that promises restaurant-quality elegance. Effortless preparation and bold flavors guarantee you’ll savor every luxurious bite of this seafood sensation.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams), skin on or off
Cooking Fat and Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lemon (juice about 2–3 tablespoons)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
Garnish (Optional):
- Lemon slices
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh dill
- Extra lemon zest
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon by arranging fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and generously season with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Heat the oven to 400F (200C) and carefully position the salmon inside. Roast for 10-12 minutes until the fish transforms to a translucent opaque color and effortlessly separates when prodded with a fork.
- While salmon bakes, craft the vibrant lemon sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Introduce minced garlic and sauté until aromatic.
- Incorporate flour into the butter-garlic mixture, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook for approximately one minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually stream chicken broth into the roux, whisking consistently to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to develop a gentle simmer.
- Infuse the sauce with tangy lemon juice, then softly blend in cream. Continue simmering for 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches a luxurious, slightly thickened consistency.
- Season the lemon sauce with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting flavors as needed.
- Transfer the perfectly baked salmon to serving plates and generously cascade the lemon sauce over the top.
- Enhance the presentation by sprinkling fresh herbs or delicate lemon zest. Accompany with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Choose fresh, high-quality salmon with vibrant color and firm texture for the best flavor and most appealing presentation.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure salmon reaches 145F internally, preventing overcooking while guaranteeing food safety.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for lighter, diet-friendly sauce variations that maintain creamy consistency.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium chicken broth and controlling salt portions, making the dish heart-healthy without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg