Salmon With Basil Cream Sauce
Salmon with a fragrant basil cream sauce offers a flavorful, elegant dish perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated weeknight dinner, highlighting fresh herbs and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the salmon into pieces, wash, and pat dry.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the salmon for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, then remove and keep warm.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add minced shallots and garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté while stirring until fragrant.
- Add chopped basil, chopped parsley, white wine, light cream, lemon juice, white pepper, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the sauce is reduced by about half.
- Reheat the fish slightly in the sauce and serve the sauce over the fish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. If fresh herbs aren't available, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried basil and parsley each. Be careful not to overcook the salmon; it should be just opaque in the center. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of light cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon with a side of steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich basil cream sauce. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving with a side of Clams And Linguine for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon and sauce in a skillet over low heat, gently warming until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon dry and tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon With Basil Cream Sauce contains roughly 662 calories, with 39g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (124% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon fillets instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for better searing.
What can I use instead of white wine in the sauce?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth. This will maintain the flavor profile of the sauce while keeping it alcohol-free.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the light cream with a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as plant-based creams can vary in flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).