Name: Creamy Salmon with Herb Sauce Ready in Just 15 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 fillets Salmon Fillets (Skinless preferred.); 1 pinch Black Pepper; 1 pinch Salt; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (For pan-searing.); 1 tablespoon Butter (Unsalted.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 1/4 cup Dry White Wine (Swap with chicken stock for non-alcoholic.); 1/2 cup Chicken or Vegetable Stock (Low-sodium is best.); 1/2 cup Thickened Cream (Heavy cream preferred.); 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (Tarragon, Chervil, Parsley) (Feel free to experiment with other herbs.)

After a long day, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a home-cooked meal that comes together in a flash. The moment I sear the salmon, the sounds of sizzling fill the kitchen, promising something special. This 15-minute Creamy Herb and Garlic Salmon is a delightful escape from the predictable dinner routine, offering a rich, buttery sauce that envelops perfectly cooked fish like a warm hug.

With the lingering aromas of fresh tarragon and chervil, each bite transports you to fine dining without the hefty price tag or hours of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute dinner or seeking a quick weeknight solution, this dish is your ticket to culinary bliss. Plus, I’ll share convenient ingredient swaps, making it versatile enough to cater to any palate. Let’s dive into a recipe that not only pleases the taste buds but also elevates your weeknight meals with ease!

Why is Salmon with Herb a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect even for those new to cooking.
Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can serve a gourmet dish that impresses family and friends alike.
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The herb and garlic cream sauce elevates the salmon, turning a simple meal into a restaurant-style experience.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute with trout or mix in different herbs; your kitchen, your rules!
Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious flavors and comforting texture will have everyone asking for seconds. For more creamy recipe ideas, check out this collection of easy salmon recipes.

Salmon with Herb Ingredients

For the Salmon

Salmon Fillets – Skinless fillets are preferred for a smooth sauce; trout can be an excellent substitute.
Black Pepper & Salt – Essential seasonings that enhance the fish’s natural flavors.
Olive Oil – Ideal for pan-searing, bringing out the salmon’s richness.

For the Herb & Garlic Cream Sauce

Butter – Unsalted for better control over salt levels; adds richness to the sauce.
Garlic – Fresh garlic gives the dish its aromatic base and depth of flavor.
Dry White Wine – Provides a layer of complexity; swap with chicken stock for a non-alcoholic option.
Chicken or Vegetable Stock/Broth – Offers a savory foundation; low-sodium is best for a healthier approach.
Thickened Cream – Heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety sauce texture.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated for the best melting quality and added umami flavor.
Fresh Herbs (Tarragon, Chervil, Parsley) – Enhance both the dish’s taste and visual appeal; feel free to experiment with dill or chives for variation.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to whip up a delightful dish of salmon with herb sauce that’ll impress at any dinner table!

How to Make Salmon with Herb

Season the salmon fillets with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. This will enhance the salmon’s natural flavors and help form a nice crust while cooking.
Pan-sear the salmon in a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat, skin-side down for about 3 minutes. Flip carefully and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the salmon is tender and flaky. Add a pat of butter near the end for a luxurious finish.
Rest the salmon fillets by covering them loosely with foil. This will keep them warm while you prepare the sauce, ensuring they maintain their delicious juiciness.
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until it turns golden and fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it, as that can impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
Deglaze the pan with dry white wine, scraping up any delicious bits left in the skillet. Let the wine reduce until it’s almost evaporated, which adds depth to your sauce.
Add thickened cream and chicken or vegetable stock to the pan, stirring well. Allow it to simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly, usually around 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate freshly grated parmesan and your choice of herbs—tarragon, chervil, or parsley. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the salmon drizzled with the herb and garlic cream sauce, paired with a complimentary side for soaking up the rich flavors, like creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Optional: Garnish with extra freshly chopped herbs for a burst of color and freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Salmon with Herb Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish uniquely yours with delicious swaps and twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter, vegan option.
For a creamy texture without the dairy, try using cashew cream, blending soaked cashews with water until smooth.
Fresh Herb Swap: Use basil or cilantro instead of tarragon for a different flavor profile.
These herbs will impart a fresh taste, brightening the cream sauce while offering delightful new nuances to each bite.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
The heat from the pepper flakes can elevate the dish, giving it an exciting twist that will delight those who enjoy a little spice.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or use smoked salmon for a new layer of taste.
This subtle smokiness can enhance the richness of the dish, making it even more complex and satisfying.
Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.
Textural contrasts add intrigue to every mouthful, making each bite a delightful adventure.
Zesty Element: A squeeze of lemon juice or lime adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce beautifully.
A hint of citrus can elevate the overall flavor, making the dish feel lighter and refreshing.
Whole Grain: Serve over a bed of quinoa or farro instead of only mashed potatoes for an added nutritional boost.
Not only do whole grains provide extra fiber, but they also offer a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the salmon exquisitely.
Vegetarian Option: Swap salmon for firm tofu or seitan for a hearty plant-based meal.
These alternatives can absorb the flavorful cream sauce beautifully, offering a satisfying bite without losing the essence of the recipe.

Expert Tips for Salmon with Herb

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and garlic to elevate the flavor of your creamy salmon sauce. Dried herbs lack the brightness and aroma of fresh ones.
Don’t Overcook: Aim for medium-rare salmon (49°C / 120°F) for optimal tenderness. A food thermometer is your best friend here!
Butter Timing: Add butter towards the end of the cooking process to avoid burning. This preserves its richness while enhancing your sauce perfectly.
Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning at the end of the cooking process. This ensures your salmon with herb sauce is just right before serving.
Customize Swaps: Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions for your creamy salmon sauce, ensuring your dish suits your tastes and pantry availability!

How to Store and Freeze Salmon with Herb

Fridge: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its flavor and freshness.

Freezer: If you want to save leftovers for later, freeze cooked salmon wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat salmon in a skillet over low heat, drizzling with a little olive oil or cream to keep it moist.

Flavor Preservation: To keep the creamy herb sauce intact, store it separately and warm it gently when serving with the reheated salmon.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Herb and Garlic Salmon preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can season the salmon fillets and store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeper. The herb and garlic cream sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain that velvety quality, reheat the sauce gently over low heat and add a splash of cream if it thickens too much. When you’re ready to serve, pan-sear the salmon as instructed, and top it with the warmed sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal with very little effort!

What to Serve with Salmon with Herb & Garlic Cream Sauce?

Imagine a table set with cozy comfort, as the rich aromas of herb and garlic waft through the air, enticing everyone to gather around.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture accentuates the sauce, soaking up every drop for an indulgent bite.
Steamed Asparagus: Bright green and slightly crisp, asparagus provides a fresh contrast, balancing the richness of the salmon.
Garlic Bread: With its warm, crusty exterior and soft interior, it’s perfect for mopping up that luxurious sauce.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add a refreshing touch that beautifully complements the dish’s richness.
Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crisp on the outside and fluffy inside, these provide a delightful texture, enhancing your overall meal experience.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled, buttery Chardonnay offers a lovely echo of the creamy sauce, making each sip a graceful accompaniment.
Lemon Tart: A zesty dessert can cleanse the palate, providing a sweet and citrusy finish to round off the meal perfectly.

Whichever sides you choose, each pairing elevates your dinner, creating a truly memorable dining experience.

Salmon with Herb Recipe FAQs

What kind of salmon should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Skinless salmon fillets are preferred for their smooth sauce compatibility, but you can also use trout or any firm fish if you’d like to switch things up. Look for fillets that are bright in color and moist without any dark spots for the best taste.

How should I store leftovers?
Great question! Store any leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing it to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat drizzled with a bit of olive oil to keep it moist.

Can I freeze the salmon?
Very! If you want to save your delicious salmon with herb sauce for later, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm in a skillet. Keep the creamy sauce separately stored and warm it up before serving.

What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries at all! If your sauce ends up too thick, simply whisk in a little more chicken or vegetable stock or even a splash of heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. Taste before serving to adjust seasoning, and remember, it’s all about finding that perfect balance!

Can I use any herbs in the recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh tarragon and chervil are fantastic choices for this salmon with herb sauce, you could swap them with dill, chives, or even basil for a different flavor profile. Get creative and use whatever fresh herbs you enjoy most!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you’re serving this dish to someone with allergies, ensure they are not sensitive to any of the featured ingredients, such as dairy or fish. For a lighter option, try substituting the heavy cream with a lighter cream or even Greek yogurt for a delightful twist that cuts down on calories without sacrificing taste.