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Homemade Creamy Lemon Dill Salmon with Buttered Peas recipe photo

Creamy Lemon Dill Salmon with Buttered Peas

This Creamy Lemon Dill Salmon with Buttered Peas is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and a luscious cream sauce. Perfect for an easy, elegant weeknight dinner!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon fresh and skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing the salmon to a golden brown
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice adds tangy brightness
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest for an intense lemon aroma and flavor
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream creates the creamy sauce that coats the salmon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas quick-cooking and naturally sweet
  • 2 tablespoons butter to enrich the peas and give them a silky finish

Equipment

  • Large non-stick skillet
  • Small Saucepan
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

Prep the Salmon
  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures a flavorful crust when searing.
Sear the Salmon
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to get crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Make the Lemon Dill Cream Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Buttered Peas
  1. In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the frozen peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tender and bright green. Drain and immediately toss with butter, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. The butter melts into the peas, making them silky and rich.
Plate and Serve
  1. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet with the creamy lemon dill sauce, spooning some sauce over the top. Serve each fillet with a generous helping of buttered peas on the side. For a complete meal, consider adding roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat gently to avoid overcooking the salmon.
  • Substitute salmon with firm white fish like cod or halibut if desired.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or full-fat plain yogurt instead of heavy cream, and plant-based butter alternatives for the peas.