This creamy roasted red pepper salmon is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The salmon is tender and juicy, topped with a rich, smooth sauce that makes it special.
I love how quick and easy this meal is to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights! Just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in no time. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of this dish. If salmon isn’t available, try trout or even chicken breasts for a different twist. Canned salmon can work in a pinch but may change the texture.
Roasted Red Peppers: You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience. If you prefer, roast your own by broiling fresh bell peppers until charred, then peeling them. This gives a wonderful smoky flavor!
Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness to the sauce. For a lighter option, you could substitute it with half-and-half or use a non-dairy milk and a thickener like cornstarch for a vegan version.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan gives the sauce a nice umami kick, you can substitute with pecorino romano, nutritional yeast for a vegan option, or just skip it altogether if dairy is a concern.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Cooked Salmon?
Cooking salmon can seem tricky, but with a few straightforward tips, you’ll nail it every time. The key is to monitor the cooking time closely:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before starting. This ensures even cooking.
- When you sear the salmon, aim for a golden brown crust. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once in the oven, check after 8 minutes. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Don’t forget to rest it for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to settle, keeping the salmon moist.
Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll be cooking salmon like a pro!
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade), chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Cherry tomatoes, roasted (optional)
- Fresh spinach leaves or salad greens, for serving
- 1 lime or lemon wedge (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes for cooking. Overall, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about half an hour—perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your salmon cooks evenly and beautifully.
2. Season the Salmon:
Next, season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). This adds flavor from the very beginning!
3. Sear the Salmon:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down if they have skin. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown. Then, carefully flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This helps lock in moisture and gives a nice crust.
4. Make the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat. In a blender or food processor, blend the roasted red peppers, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning until smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes the dish special!
5. Combine Salmon and Sauce:
Pour the creamy roasted red pepper sauce over and around the salmon fillets in the skillet. If you have rinsed and roasted cherry tomatoes, you can add them around the salmon for extra flavor and color.
6. Bake the Salmon:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes. Check for doneness—your salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork. The timing will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish the salmon with fresh basil slices for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately alongside fresh spinach leaves or a light salad, along with a lime or lemon wedge to squeeze over the top for added brightness.
Enjoy your creamy roasted red pepper salmon—rich, flavorful, and perfect for a special but easy dinner! Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Fresh Red Peppers Instead of Roasted?
Yes, you can use fresh red peppers! Simply roast them in the oven or on a grill until charred. Then, peel off the skins, seed them, and chop before using them in the sauce. This will add a nice smoky flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and sear the salmon ahead of time. Store the cooked salmon and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or the microwave when ready to serve.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with pasta, rice, or a light salad. Fresh spinach or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the salmon nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place any unused salmon and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Enjoy again soon!