Name: Indulgent Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Salmon, skinless (Can substitute with skin-on fillets.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Use kosher or sea salt for best flavor.); 1 teaspoon Black pepper (Adjust according to spice preference.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Can be replaced with avocado oil.); 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter (Use salted butter if necessary.); 2 cloves Garlic, finely minced (Fresh garlic is best.); 0.25 cup Dry white wine or chicken stock (For non-alcoholic option, use lemon juice and broth.); 0.75 cup Low sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 0.5 cup Heavy cream (For lighter version, mix with milk.); 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated (Freshly grated recommended.); 1 tablespoon Tarragon leaves, finely chopped (Can substitute with dill or thyme.); 1 tablespoon Chervil, finely chopped (Can be omitted or replaced with parsley.); 2 tablespoons Parsley, finely chopped (Plus more for garnish.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aromas of garlic and lemon began to dance through the air, drawing me into a moment of culinary bliss. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce—a dish that not only epitomizes elegance but also keeps weeknight cooking quick and effortless. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can impress your loved ones with a meal that feels gourmet, yet it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy evening. This salmon is delightful and gluten-free, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game without the fuss. Trust me, once you experience the harmony of rich salmon and luscious cream sauce, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for takeout. Are you ready to bring some restaurant magic to your dining table?

Why Is This Salmon Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This Creamy Pan Seared Salmon is ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something special without the hassle.

Elegant Presentation: Impress your guests with a dish that looks as good as it tastes, combining vibrant colors and luxurious textures.

Flavor Explosion: The delightful pairing of zesty lemon and savory garlic creates a sauce that complements the buttery salmon perfectly.

Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer skin-on fillets, a spicy kick with red pepper flakes, or a lighter version with milk, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Health-conscious Choice: Being gluten-free, this dish caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This easy-to-make meal will have everyone asking for seconds—it’s the perfect way to elevate your dining experience! For even more variety, check out my tips for aromatic herb substitutions.

Creamy Pan Seared Salmon Ingredients

For the Salmon
• Salmon fillets, skinless – Rich in flavor, you can substitute with skin-on fillets for extra texture.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; use kosher or sea salt for optimal taste.
• Black pepper – Adds warmth; adjust according to your spice preference.
• Olive oil – Ideal for searing; can be replaced with avocado oil for a different profile.
• Unsalted butter – Provides richness; use salted butter if needed, but adjust other salt accordingly.

For the Cream Sauce
• Garlic, finely minced – Essential for flavor; fresh garlic yields the best results.
• Dry white wine (or chicken stock) – Adds depth to the sauce; swap with lemon juice and broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Chicken or vegetable broth, low sodium – Savory base for the sauce, helping control salt levels.
• Heavy cream (thickened cream) – Key for a velvety texture; for a lighter version, mix half with milk or light cream.
• Parmesan cheese, finely grated – Offers umami; freshly grated is recommended for better melting.

For the Herbs
• Tarragon leaves, finely chopped – Provides anise-like notes; substitute with dill or thyme if needed.
• Chervil, finely chopped – Adds a delicate flavor; you can omit or replace with fresh parsley.
• Parsley, finely chopped (plus more for garnish) – Brightens the dish; essential for that fresh touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Salmon
Start by patting dry the salmon fillets with paper towels to ensure a beautiful sear. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor. Let the seasoned fillets sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prepare the skillet; this helps achieve a perfectly cooked salmon.

Step 2: Sear Salmon
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted and starts to foam, carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on. Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 3: Make Sauce
Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, keeping it warm. Lower the heat and add the finely minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently until fragrant. Then, deglaze the pan by pouring in ¼ cup of dry white wine (or chicken stock), scraping up any browned bits, and letting it simmer for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Broth & Cream
Next, pour in ¾ cup of low-sodium chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors. Gradually stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of finely grated parmesan cheese. Keep cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the cheese melts smoothly into the mixture.

Step 5: Herbs & Salmon
Once the sauce has thickened, mix in the chopped tarragon, chervil, and parsley, letting the fresh herbs infuse their flavor into the sauce. Return the seared salmon to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over it. Allow it to simmer gently for 1-2 minutes to warm the salmon through without overcooking.

Step 6: Serve
To finish, transfer the creamy pan seared salmon with lemon garlic cream sauce to serving plates. Garnish generously with additional fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Pair it with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes or sautéed vegetables, to complete this elegant, quick dinner option.

Creamy Pan Seared Salmon Variations

Feel free to explore these variations to make this dish uniquely yours, bringing even more delight to your table!

Skin-On Salmon: Opt for skin-on fillets to add extra crunch and flavor while searing. The crispy skin adds a delightful texture contrast to the velvety sauce.
Spicy Kick: Introduce red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist. This adds an exciting heat that beautifully complements the creamy sauce.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Replace dry white wine with extra chicken stock and a splash of lemon juice for zesty flavor without the alcohol. This keeps the sauce vibrant and refreshing.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and omit cheese for a dairy-free version. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and pairs wonderfully with salmon.
Whole Grain Upgrade: Serve this dish over a bed of quinoa or farro instead of rice or mashed potatoes. This adds a nutty flavor and a nutritious boost to complement the meal.
Zesty Herb Blend: Explore different herbs like dill or basil for a fresh flavor profile. Each herb brings its own unique twist to the sauce, enhancing the overall dish.
Savory Touch: For an umami boost, stir in a tablespoon of miso paste into the sauce just before serving. This deepens the flavors, creating an exciting experience on your palate.
Vegetable Infusion: Sauté some spinach or kale along with the garlic for added nutrients and flavor. The greens blend beautifully into the sauce, making it even more luscious and vibrant.

With these ideas, you can take this Creamy Pan Seared Salmon recipe in so many delicious directions!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the salmon fillets and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the lemon garlic cream sauce, letting it cool before storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain its velvety quality, gently reheat the sauce on low heat before serving, adding a splash of broth to refresh it. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the salmon, combine it with the warmed sauce, and enjoy a delightful dinner with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Creamy Pan Seared Salmon

Hot Skillet: Always ensure the skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps achieve that beautiful golden crust while keeping the fish tender inside.
Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly minced garlic and grated parmesan for the cream sauce. They provide stronger flavors compared to powdered garlic or pre-shredded cheese, enhancing the overall taste of your creamy pan seared salmon.
Temperature Check: Avoid cooking on high heat after adding cream to the sauce. This prevents splitting and keeps the sauce silky smooth, crucial for that rich, creamy texture.
Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust your seasonings as you go. Different brands of broth and cheese can vary in saltiness, so make sure your flavors are just right.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with spice! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful warmth to the sauce, bringing a new dimension to your dish.

What to Serve with Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce

Creating a delightful meal is all about the perfect pairings, and this salmon dish offers a symphony of flavors waiting to be complemented.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture soaks up the rich sauce, creating an irresistible mouthfeel that pairs wonderfully with the salmon.
Sautéed Asparagus: Bright and crisp, this green vegetable adds a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the creamy sauce. It’s a lovely balance of flavors and textures.
Quinoa Salad: A nourishing option, light quinoa tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the salmon.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These roasted veggies provide a slightly charred flavor that enhances the succulence of the seared salmon, plus they add a satisfying crunch.
Garlic Bread: Crusty, warm, and buttery, it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, making every bite an indulgent experience.
Chardonnay: This crisp wine, with its hints of citrus and oak, enhances the flavors of the cream sauce, inviting you to sip slowly as you savor your dish.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries and melons brings a hint of sweetness, cutting through the richness of the salmon and offering a light, palate-cleansing finish.

Storage Tips for Creamy Pan Seared Salmon

Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors of the creamy pan seared salmon.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the salmon in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce and maintain creaminess.

Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, feel free to garnish with fresh parsley; it refreshes the meal and enhances the presentation beautifully.

Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon fillets, look for those with a vibrant color and firm texture. Fresh salmon should have a moist appearance without any dark spots or a fishy smell. If possible, go for wild-caught salmon, which tends to have richer flavors.

How should I store leftovers from this salmon dish?
Very! To store your cooled leftover Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy and delicious.

Can I freeze this creamy salmon dish?
Absolutely! To freeze your salmon, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag, and pop it in the freezer. It can be kept for up to 2 months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight, and reheat slowly in a skillet with a little broth to maintain creaminess.

What should I do if my cream sauce separates?
Oh, no! If your sauce does separate, don’t worry—it happens to the best of us. Start by removing the sauce from heat. Then, you can try whisking in a splash of cold cream or milk to help bring it back together. To avoid this in the future, always cook the sauce on low heat after adding cream, and never let it boil.

Is this salmon recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! This Creamy Pan Seared Salmon with Lemon Garlic Cream Sauce is naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, be sure to check the chicken broth and parmesan cheese labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the wine with extra broth and lemon juice—it’s just as tasty!

What can I serve alongside this salmon?
I recommend it! For a delightful meal, pair this salmon with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or al dente pasta that will absorb the luscious sauce. Sautéed asparagus or green beans make for beautiful and nutritious accompaniments, adding color and crunch to your plate.