Tasty Crispy Skin Salmon With Lemon Dill Cream Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Today, we're diving into a culinary delight that combines the richness of seared salmon with the bright, fresh flavors of a lemon dill cream sauce. This dish is not only packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon but also brings a zesty and aromatic twist with the sauce, making it a perfect option for a sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 Salmon Fillets (6 to 8 ounces each, with skin on)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Garlic Powder
  • 3 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • Fresh Dill (about 3 tablespoons chopped, stems removed; can substitute dried dill if necessary)
  • Zest of 1 Lemon
  • Juice of 1 Lemon
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Butter
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream

Preparation Steps

  1. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, especially the skin, to ensure crispiness. Season the flesh side with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and the skin side with just salt and pepper.

  2. Prep the Aromatics: Finely mince three garlic cloves and chop enough fresh dill to make about three tablespoons. Zest and juice one lemon, setting both aside for the sauce.

  3. Make the Lemon Dill Cream Sauce:

    • In a medium fry pan over medium heat, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt.
    • Add the minced garlic to the pan, sautéing for about 30 seconds until it starts to brown slightly. Be careful not to burn it.
    • Stir in the lemon juice, letting it simmer briefly before adding the heavy cream.
    • Increase the heat to medium-high, bringing the mixture to a simmer until it begins to thicken, about 4 to 5 minutes.
    • Reduce the heat to low, then incorporate the chopped dill and lemon zest into the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
    • Taste the sauce, adjusting with more salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Sear the Salmon:

    • Heat a high-wall pan over medium-high heat with a couple of tablespoons of olive or avocado oil.
    • Place the salmon in the pan, skin side down, and sear for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
    • Flip the salmon carefully and cook for another 3 minutes, or until it reaches your desired doneness. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
  5. Plating:

    • To preserve the crispiness of the salmon skin, spoon the lemon dill cream sauce onto the plate first.
    • Place the seared salmon on top of the sauce, skin side up.
    • Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of dill for an added touch of elegance.

Conclusion

This seared salmon with lemon dill cream sauce is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a dish that's both elegant and bursting with flavor. Whether you're looking for a new weeknight favorite or something to impress guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory notes in each bite.