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Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Salmon Ready in 20 Minutes

creamy lemon garlic salmon - featured image
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A quick and delicious creamy lemon garlic salmon that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features flaky salmon in a velvety, bright sauce that feels special without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each), skin on or off
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Let sit at room temperature while pan heats.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook without moving for 4 minutes. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
  3. Build the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Make it Creamy: Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 30 seconds. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring. Add lemon zest and stir. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bring It All Together: Return salmon fillets to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon sauce over the top. Warm through for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, let the salmon rest at room temperature before cooking. Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor. If the sauce is too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of broth or cream. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy lemon garlic salmon, easy salmon recipe, 20 minute dinner, weeknight salmon, pan-seared salmon, creamy garlic sauce

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/easy-creamy-lemon-garlic-salmon-ready-in-20-minutes/