Creamy Lemon & Herb Salmon

Creamy Lemon & Herb Salmon is an elegant yet easy dish that delivers rich, buttery salmon fillets simmered in a luscious lemon-herb cream sauce. It’s the perfect balance of tangy citrus, fresh herbs, and savory cream—all coming together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly pan-seared salmon with a golden crust
• Creamy, flavorful sauce with a zesty lemon punch
• Fresh herbs add brightness and depth
• Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes
• Restaurant-quality flavor at home
• Pairs well with pasta, rice, or veggies
• Great source of healthy fats and protein
• Gluten-free and low-carb friendly
• A crowd-pleasing main course
• Elegant enough for a dinner party, simple enough for weeknights

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or butter (for searing)
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice and zest
• Heavy cream
• Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Fresh dill or thyme (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)

Directions

this recipe

1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes, until just cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more oil or butter if needed.
5. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and Dijon mustard (if using). Let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in chopped parsley, dill, and Parmesan cheese if using. Season to taste.
9. Return salmon fillets to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Cook for another minute to heat through.
10. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version
• Add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for color and nutrition
• Use trout or cod in place of salmon
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
• Top with extra lemon zest and herbs before serving

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Avoid boiling the sauce to maintain its creamy texture. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just be sure to thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What herbs go best with this recipe?

Parsley, dill, thyme, and chives work beautifully. Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but dried can be used in a pinch.

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. You can reduce it a bit longer to thicken.

Is the skin supposed to be eaten?

Yes, if it’s crispy and cooked well. It adds great texture, but it’s optional.

What sides go well with creamy lemon salmon?

Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, pasta, or crusty bread.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I bake the salmon instead?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 12–15 minutes, then prepare the sauce separately and combine before serving.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Simmer the sauce gently on low heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance, but cook the salmon fresh for best texture and flavor.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats—great for a keto lifestyle.

Conclusion

Creamy Lemon & Herb Salmon is a comforting, restaurant-worthy meal you can whip up in just minutes. With tender, flaky salmon and a velvety sauce bursting with citrus and herbaceous notes, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple and nourishing. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

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