Imagine a restaurant-quality meal that takes just 20 minutes to prepare, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This Salmon and Cream Cheese recipe is your ticket to an incredibly delicious, restaurant-worthy dinner that will have everyone asking, "Who's the chef?" Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or simply craving a quick and elegant meal, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon fillets by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides with salt and pepper. Allow the fillets to rest at room temperature for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, fresh chopped dill, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and create a smooth, herbed cream cheese spread. Set aside at room temperature.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin is present) and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp.
- Gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork.
- Remove the salmon from the heat and immediately top each fillet with a generous spread of the herbed cream cheese mixture. Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired, and serve immediately while the salmon is still hot and the cream cheese is slightly melting.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let salmon sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Perfection: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the salmon, which helps achieve a beautifully golden, crisp exterior.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon is best when it's still slightly translucent in the center. Use a meat thermometer to check it reaches 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh dill instead of dried for a brighter, more vibrant flavor in your cream cheese spread.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this dish with a light arugula salad or roasted asparagus to complete your gourmet meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
