Salmon with cream and saffron sauce

Delicious salmon recipe with cream and saffron sauce

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

This salmon recipe with cream and saffron sauce is a refined combination of delicious fish and a creamy sauce that is sure to impress any guest. Although saffron adds an exotic touch and vibrant color, it is important to know that it can be omitted if it is not to your taste. What matters is that you achieve a delicious and satisfying meal.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 slice of lemon (for flavor)
- 500 ml chicken broth (or water with a Knorr cube)
- 100 ml cooking cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 pinch of saffron (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the salmon:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the salmon fillets are at room temperature, as this will help them cook evenly. If using saffron, place it in a small dish with a little warm water to enhance its flavor.

2. Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, heat the two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and the slice of lemon. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and lightly golden. Its aroma will perfectly complement the salmon.

3. Add the broth: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a boil. If you do not have broth, water with the Knorr cube will work perfectly. This base will give a rich flavor to the sauce.

4. Season: Once the broth has started to boil, add salt and pepper to taste. It is important to taste, as each broth has a different salt level.

5. Form the sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then add the cream, the cornstarch dissolved in a tablespoon of cold water (this will help thicken the sauce), and, if desired, the saffron. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

6. Strain the sauce: When the sauce has reached the desired consistency, strain it into a baking dish or a heat-resistant dish. This step is not essential, but it will provide a smoother sauce without onion pieces.

Preparing the salmon:

7. Season the fillets: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the salmon fillets. This will enhance the flavor of the fish.

8. Fry the salmon: In the same skillet where you prepared the sauce, add a little extra olive oil if necessary. Heat over high heat and add the salmon fillets. Fry each fillet for about 1 minute on each side until golden. It is important not to overcook them, so make sure the center remains slightly undercooked.

9. Bake the salmon: Place the salmon fillets over the sauce in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 250 degrees Celsius and bake for 10 minutes. This step will allow the salmon to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Serving:

Salmon with cream and saffron sauce is best served with light sides, such as a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Basmati rice or mashed potatoes can also be an excellent choice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh herbs for an attractive appearance and added flavor.

Tips and variations:

- If you are not a fan of saffron, you can try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a touch of freshness.
- Instead of cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter but equally tasty version.
- Another variation of the sauce can include adding capers or olives for a Mediterranean flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. Prepared with cream, this dish also provides calcium, while the onion adds antioxidants and essential amino acids.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace salmon with another fish? Absolutely! You can use trout or sea bream, but cooking may vary depending on the type of fish.
2. What is the best way to check if the salmon is cooked? Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the center is opaque.
3. Is this recipe suitable for a diet? Yes, it is a relatively healthy recipe, but it can be adapted by reducing the amount of cream or using lighter alternatives.

Conclusion:

This salmon recipe with cream and saffron sauce is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. Experiment with different sides and flavors to create a meal that perfectly suits your tastes. Try it today and turn an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable culinary experience!