Introduction: Grilled salmon with creamy garlic sauce is a perfect dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of grilled fish with a velvety, garlicky sauce that complements it wonderfully. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a healthy and satisfying meal. The smoky char from the grill and the creamy texture of the sauce balance each other beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, special occasions, or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the salmon:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest on both sides.
Grill the salmon:
Place the salmon fillets on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked to your liking (an internal temperature of 145°F is recommended).
Make the creamy garlic sauce:
While the salmon is grilling, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the chicken broth (or white wine) and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for about 3-5 minutes.
Finish the sauce:
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh parsley and dill (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Once the salmon is done grilling, plate the fillets and drizzle the creamy garlic sauce over the top.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill if desired. Serve immediately.
Description:
This Grilled Salmon with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a mouthwatering combination of smoky, grilled fish paired with a rich, creamy garlic sauce that’s packed with flavor. The salmon is perfectly tender with a slight char from the grill, while the creamy sauce adds a smooth, savory layer with hints of garlic and Parmesan. The dish is elevated with fresh lemon juice and zest, which balances the richness and adds a zesty brightness to every bite.
Tips:
If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-sear the salmon in a hot skillet with a little olive oil. For extra crispiness, you can finish it off in the oven.
For a lighter version of the sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream.
If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an added layer of heat.
Make sure to not overcook the salmon, as it can dry out. The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork.
Variations:
Lemon Dill Sauce: If you’re a fan of fresh dill, you can make a lemon-dill cream sauce with the same base, adding a touch more lemon and a handful of chopped fresh dill.
Cajun Spiced Salmon: For a spicier twist, you can season the salmon with Cajun seasoning before grilling. The creamy garlic sauce will balance the heat perfectly.
Smoked Salmon: For a different flavor profile, you could use smoked salmon instead of grilled salmon, pairing it with the creamy garlic sauce for a rich and indulgent meal.
Correction:
Ensure you check the thickness of the salmon fillets before grilling. Thicker fillets may require more time on the grill to cook through.
If the creamy sauce becomes too thick while simmering, simply add a splash more of chicken broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Enjoy:
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy this delightful dish of grilled salmon with creamy garlic sauce! It’s a simple yet indulgent meal that will surely impress anyone at the table. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish is guaranteed to be a favorite.