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Creamy Lemon Parmesan Salmon Simple and Tasty Meal

by on February 7, 2025

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Are you ready to impress your taste buds with a simple and tasty meal? I’m excited to share my Creamy Lemon Parmesan Salmon recipe, which combines rich flavors with ease of cooking. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you’ll create a delightful meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this creamy delight!

- 4 salmon fillets - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup heavy cream - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped) - Fresh parsley for garnish To make creamy lemon Parmesan salmon, you need a few key ingredients. Start with 4 salmon fillets. Fresh salmon works best, but frozen can also work. You will also need 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking. You cannot forget the seasonings. Salt and pepper will elevate the flavors of the dish. For the creamy sauce, use 1 cup of heavy cream. It gives the dish its rich and smooth texture. Next, the star flavors come from lemon. You will need the zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. These add brightness to the dish. To make the sauce cheesy and delicious, use 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the cream, creating a lovely sauce. Two cloves of minced garlic add depth to the flavor. For an herby note, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill or 1 tablespoon of fresh dill. Finally, fresh parsley will make a great garnish. It adds color and freshness to your plate. With these ingredients, you can create a meal that is simple, tasty, and truly satisfying! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the salmon evenly. 2. Sear the salmon fillets in a large oven-safe skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Place the fillets skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes. The skin should be crispy and golden. 3. Flip the salmon fillets carefully. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside. 4. Prepare the creamy sauce in the same skillet. Lower the heat to medium. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. The garlic should be fragrant but not brown. 5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Add the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of dill. Simmer this mixture for 2-3 minutes. 6. Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if needed. 7. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the salmon. 8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes. The salmon should cook through and flake easily when done. 9. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Each step builds on the last, making this dish easy and fun to prepare. Enjoy the cooking process as you create this creamy lemon Parmesan salmon! - How to achieve the perfect crispy skin on salmon Start by heating the olive oil in the skillet. Place the salmon skin-side down. Leave it alone for 3-4 minutes. This lets the skin get nice and crispy. Don’t rush this step! - Recommended cooking time for optimal doneness After searing, flip the salmon and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Then, bake it in the oven for 8-10 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. - Tips for preventing overcooking Keep an eye on the time. Salmon cooks quickly! Use a meat thermometer if you have one. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). - Best sides to serve with creamy lemon Parmesan salmon Pair your salmon with steamed asparagus. A light salad also works well. Both sides complement the rich sauce nicely. - Presentation ideas for the dish Serve the salmon fillets on individual plates. Drizzle the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce over the top. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This makes the dish look fancy and inviting! Pro Tips Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or milk to reduce calories while maintaining flavor. Perfectly Cooked Salmon: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal texture and flavor. Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and let it reduce before adding the cream. Garnishing Options: Experiment with different herbs like chives or tarragon for garnishing to add a unique twist to the dish. {{image_2}} You can switch up the fish. Try using cod, trout, or shrimp instead of salmon. Each option brings a unique flavor. If you're looking for dairy-free choices, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy taste. You can also play with flavors by adding herbs or spices. Fresh basil or thyme works well. For extra veggies, consider adding spinach or cherry tomatoes to the creamy sauce. They add color and nutrients. There are different ways to cook this dish. You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Simply brush the fillets with oil and grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side. This method gives the fish a nice char. If you want to skip the oven, you can cook it on the stovetop. After searing the salmon, lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the fish is flaky. This method keeps the dish simple and fast. To store leftovers of creamy lemon Parmesan salmon, first, let it cool. Place the salmon and sauce in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep it sealed to prevent drying out. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm. If you want to use a microwave, place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. This helps retain the sauce's creaminess. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just remember to thaw it first. Place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight. If you need it fast, run it under cold water for about 30 minutes. This will help your salmon cook evenly. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked? The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should also be opaque in the center. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or coconut cream. These substitutes still give a creamy texture without the extra fat. Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge. Cook the salmon fresh when you're ready to eat. This keeps it tender and juicy. Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping? Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. Cook the salmon and sauce, then store them in separate containers. Reheat the salmon in the oven for best results. This way, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal all week. You learned how to make creamy lemon Parmesan salmon. We covered the ingredients, prep steps, and cooking tips. I shared ways to serve and store this dish. We also explored fun variations and answered common questions. This recipe is easy and delicious. Try it out and impress your guests! Remember to play with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Creamy Delight: The luscious heavy cream and Parmesan create a rich sauce that’s irresistible.
  3. Bright Flavors: The addition of lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing brightness that balances the richness.
  4. Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 salmon fillets

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup heavy cream

– Zest of 1 lemon

– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)

– Fresh parsley for garnish

To make creamy lemon Parmesan salmon, you need a few key ingredients. Start with 4 salmon fillets. Fresh salmon works best, but frozen can also work. You will also need 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking.

You cannot forget the seasonings. Salt and pepper will elevate the flavors of the dish. For the creamy sauce, use 1 cup of heavy cream. It gives the dish its rich and smooth texture.

Next, the star flavors come from lemon. You will need the zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. These add brightness to the dish.

To make the sauce cheesy and delicious, use 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the cream, creating a lovely sauce.

Two cloves of minced garlic add depth to the flavor. For an herby note, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill or 1 tablespoon of fresh dill.

Finally, fresh parsley will make a great garnish. It adds color and freshness to your plate. With these ingredients, you can create a meal that is simple, tasty, and truly satisfying!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the salmon evenly.

2. Sear the salmon fillets in a large oven-safe skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Place the fillets skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes. The skin should be crispy and golden.

3. Flip the salmon fillets carefully. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Prepare the creamy sauce in the same skillet. Lower the heat to medium. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. The garlic should be fragrant but not brown.

5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Add the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of dill. Simmer this mixture for 2-3 minutes.

6. Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if needed.

7. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the salmon.

8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes. The salmon should cook through and flake easily when done.

9. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor.

Each step builds on the last, making this dish easy and fun to prepare. Enjoy the cooking process as you create this creamy lemon Parmesan salmon!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– How to achieve the perfect crispy skin on salmon

Start by heating the olive oil in the skillet. Place the salmon skin-side down. Leave it alone for 3-4 minutes. This lets the skin get nice and crispy. Don’t rush this step!

– Recommended cooking time for optimal doneness

After searing, flip the salmon and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Then, bake it in the oven for 8-10 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done.

– Tips for preventing overcooking

Keep an eye on the time. Salmon cooks quickly! Use a meat thermometer if you have one. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Serving Suggestions

– Best sides to serve with creamy lemon Parmesan salmon

Pair your salmon with steamed asparagus. A light salad also works well. Both sides complement the rich sauce nicely.

– Presentation ideas for the dish

Serve the salmon fillets on individual plates. Drizzle the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce over the top. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This makes the dish look fancy and inviting!

Pro Tips

  1. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or milk to reduce calories while maintaining flavor.
  2. Perfectly Cooked Salmon: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal texture and flavor.
  3. Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and let it reduce before adding the cream.
  4. Garnishing Options: Experiment with different herbs like chives or tarragon for garnishing to add a unique twist to the dish.

Variations

Alternate Ingredients

You can switch up the fish. Try using cod, trout, or shrimp instead of salmon. Each option brings a unique flavor. If you’re looking for dairy-free choices, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy taste.

You can also play with flavors by adding herbs or spices. Fresh basil or thyme works well. For extra veggies, consider adding spinach or cherry tomatoes to the creamy sauce. They add color and nutrients.

Cooking Methods

There are different ways to cook this dish. You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Simply brush the fillets with oil and grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side. This method gives the fish a nice char.

If you want to skip the oven, you can cook it on the stovetop. After searing the salmon, lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the fish is flaky. This method keeps the dish simple and fast.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers of creamy lemon Parmesan salmon, first, let it cool. Place the salmon and sauce in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep it sealed to prevent drying out.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm. If you want to use a microwave, place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. This helps retain the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

Common Cooking Questions

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just remember to thaw it first. Place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight. If you need it fast, run it under cold water for about 30 minutes. This will help your salmon cook evenly.

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should also be opaque in the center. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or coconut cream. These substitutes still give a creamy texture without the extra fat.

Recipe-specific Queries

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge. Cook the salmon fresh when you’re ready to eat. This keeps it tender and juicy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. Cook the salmon and sauce, then store them in separate containers. Reheat the salmon in the oven for best results. This way, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal all week.

You learned how to make creamy lemon Parmesan salmon. We covered the ingredients, prep steps, and cooking tips. I shared ways to serve and store this dish. We also explored fun variations and answered common questions.

This recipe is easy and delicious. Try it out and impress your guests! Remember to play with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventur

- 4 salmon fillets - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup heavy cream - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped) - Fresh parsley for garnish To make creamy lemon Parmesan salmon, you need a few key ingredients. Start with 4 salmon fillets. Fresh salmon works best, but frozen can also work. You will also need 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking. You cannot forget the seasonings. Salt and pepper will elevate the flavors of the dish. For the creamy sauce, use 1 cup of heavy cream. It gives the dish its rich and smooth texture. Next, the star flavors come from lemon. You will need the zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. These add brightness to the dish. To make the sauce cheesy and delicious, use 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts into the cream, creating a lovely sauce. Two cloves of minced garlic add depth to the flavor. For an herby note, use 1 teaspoon of dried dill or 1 tablespoon of fresh dill. Finally, fresh parsley will make a great garnish. It adds color and freshness to your plate. With these ingredients, you can create a meal that is simple, tasty, and truly satisfying! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the salmon evenly. 2. Sear the salmon fillets in a large oven-safe skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Place the fillets skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes. The skin should be crispy and golden. 3. Flip the salmon fillets carefully. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside. 4. Prepare the creamy sauce in the same skillet. Lower the heat to medium. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. The garlic should be fragrant but not brown. 5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well. Add the zest of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of dill. Simmer this mixture for 2-3 minutes. 6. Gradually add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper if needed. 7. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the salmon. 8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes. The salmon should cook through and flake easily when done. 9. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and flavor. Each step builds on the last, making this dish easy and fun to prepare. Enjoy the cooking process as you create this creamy lemon Parmesan salmon! - How to achieve the perfect crispy skin on salmon Start by heating the olive oil in the skillet. Place the salmon skin-side down. Leave it alone for 3-4 minutes. This lets the skin get nice and crispy. Don’t rush this step! - Recommended cooking time for optimal doneness After searing, flip the salmon and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Then, bake it in the oven for 8-10 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. - Tips for preventing overcooking Keep an eye on the time. Salmon cooks quickly! Use a meat thermometer if you have one. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). - Best sides to serve with creamy lemon Parmesan salmon Pair your salmon with steamed asparagus. A light salad also works well. Both sides complement the rich sauce nicely. - Presentation ideas for the dish Serve the salmon fillets on individual plates. Drizzle the creamy lemon Parmesan sauce over the top. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This makes the dish look fancy and inviting! Pro Tips Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or milk to reduce calories while maintaining flavor. Perfectly Cooked Salmon: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal texture and flavor. Enhance the Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and let it reduce before adding the cream. Garnishing Options: Experiment with different herbs like chives or tarragon for garnishing to add a unique twist to the dish. {{image_2}} You can switch up the fish. Try using cod, trout, or shrimp instead of salmon. Each option brings a unique flavor. If you're looking for dairy-free choices, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese for a cheesy taste. You can also play with flavors by adding herbs or spices. Fresh basil or thyme works well. For extra veggies, consider adding spinach or cherry tomatoes to the creamy sauce. They add color and nutrients. There are different ways to cook this dish. You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Simply brush the fillets with oil and grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side. This method gives the fish a nice char. If you want to skip the oven, you can cook it on the stovetop. After searing the salmon, lower the heat and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the fish is flaky. This method keeps the dish simple and fast. To store leftovers of creamy lemon Parmesan salmon, first, let it cool. Place the salmon and sauce in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep it sealed to prevent drying out. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warm. If you want to use a microwave, place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. This helps retain the sauce's creaminess. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just remember to thaw it first. Place the frozen fillets in the fridge overnight. If you need it fast, run it under cold water for about 30 minutes. This will help your salmon cook evenly. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked? The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should also be opaque in the center. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or coconut cream. These substitutes still give a creamy texture without the extra fat. Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce in advance. Just store it in the fridge. Cook the salmon fresh when you're ready to eat. This keeps it tender and juicy. Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping? Yes, this recipe works well for meal prep. Cook the salmon and sauce, then store them in separate containers. Reheat the salmon in the oven for best results. This way, you’ll enjoy a tasty meal all week. You learned how to make creamy lemon Parmesan salmon. We covered the ingredients, prep steps, and cooking tips. I shared ways to serve and store this dish. We also explored fun variations and answered common questions. This recipe is easy and delicious. Try it out and impress your guests! Remember to play with flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Salmon

A delicious salmon dish with a creamy lemon Parmesan sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 zest lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • for garnish fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is golden.
  • Flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and dill to the cream mixture, then simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Place the salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the tops.
  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve with steamed asparagus or a light salad for a complete meal.
Keyword creamy, lemon, parmesan, salmon

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