There’s something about the warmth of an oven and the smell of garlic and fresh herbs that turns an ordinary evening into a moment worth savoring. One chilly night, I remember wrapping myself in a soft blanket as the creamy aroma from the kitchen filled the air. The salmon was gently baking, the sauce bubbling quietly, promising a meal both elegant and satisfying. As I sat down with the first bite, the creamy sauce melted perfectly into the tender fish, each forkful comforting in a way that felt like a little celebration after a long day. It was simple, yet special—like a quiet reminder that good food can make any night feel a bit brighter.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Creamy garlic and herb sauce that transforms the salmon into a luscious main dish
– Quick prep and baking time, making it ideal for both weeknights and weekend dinners
– Elegant enough to impress guests, yet straightforward enough for solo dinners
– A perfect balance of tangy lemon, fresh herbs, and savory Parmesan
– Leftovers store beautifully for easy reheating and second-day enjoyment
If you’re worried about getting the sauce just right or overcooking the salmon, don’t be. The creamy mixture is forgiving and creates a tender, flavorful coating that keeps the fish moist. Plus, the baking time is perfect to let all the flavors meld without any extra fuss.
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Baked Creamy Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A rich and flavorful baked salmon dish featuring a creamy garlic and herb sauce, perfect for an elegant yet easy meal.
Ingredients
4 salmon fillets, skin on, about 6 ounces each
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Season the salmon fillets evenly with salt and black pepper.
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped dill, chopped parsley, and paprika. Mix well until smooth.
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well-coated.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
FAQ
How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked? Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout. The creamy sauce will also thicken slightly during baking.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the creamy sauce? Fresh herbs and Parmesan give this dish its signature flavor, but feel free to swap dill or parsley with thyme or basil for a different twist.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for up to three days; freezing can affect the texture of the creamy sauce.
What should I serve alongside this salmon? A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pilaf complement the richness of the dish beautifully.
Give this baked creamy salmon a try tonight and enjoy a meal that feels both indulgent and effortless. Once you experience that tender fish wrapped in a velvety sauce, I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to dinners.