Indulge in a culinary delight that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table! This Baked Salmon with Parmesan Cream Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Imagine tender, flaky salmon fillets drizzled with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and zesty lemon—it's a dish that promises to elevate any occasion. Ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a gourmet feast? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, and discover how simple it is to create a restaurant-quality dish at home!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents excess moisture during baking.
- Season both sides of the salmon fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure even coverage for consistent flavor.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet for even cooking.
- In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
- Stir in the lemon juice to the cream sauce, which will add brightness and help balance the richness of the cream.
- Pour the Parmesan cream sauce evenly over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and a touch of fresh herb flavor.
- Serve immediately, accompanied by your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. Look for vibrant color and a fresh, ocean-like smell.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Drying the salmon fillets with paper towels before seasoning helps achieve a better sear and prevents excess moisture, resulting in a beautifully baked dish.
- Balance the Flavors: Don’t skip the lemon juice in the cream sauce! It adds a bright acidity that perfectly balances the richness of the heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the salmon while it bakes. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, cooking times may vary. The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish with a fresh herb flavor. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 484kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 39g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 143mg
