Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Lemony Parmesan Cream Sauce

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Lemony Parmesan Cream Sauce, a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. The tender salmon is baked to perfection in a velvety sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan, garlic, and a touch of lemon. The addition of fresh thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and dill adds layers of freshness and texture. This dish is both wholesome and satisfying, making it a great option for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients:

• For the Salmon:
  • 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, your preference)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 4 cloves garlic, lightly smashed
  • 1 shallot, thinly sliced
  • Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
• For the Lemony Parmesan Cream Sauce:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup salsa verde
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Gently coat a baking dish with oil, ensuring it’s spacious enough to accommodate the salmon fillets.
2. Sear the Salmon:
   • Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and black pepper.
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if using), and sear for 2-3 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is lightly browned.
   • Remove the salmon and set aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the thyme, smashed garlic cloves, sliced shallot, and a pinch of chili flakes.
   • Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the shallots are softened.
4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
   • Stir in the salsa verde, grated parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
   • Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Bake the Salmon:
   • Place the salmon fillets back into the skillet, submerging them in the sauce. Use a spoon to drizzle additional sauce over each fillet.
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the salmon with fresh dill and chopped green onions.
   • Serve the salmon fillets with the creamy sauce spooned over the top, along with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in Lemony Parmesan Cream Sauce is a delicious blend of rich and fresh flavors. The creamy sauce, brightened by lemon juice and zest, complements the buttery salmon perfectly, while the spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and parmesan add texture and depth. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to impress with its elegance and simplicity.