Roasted Salmon with White Wine and Lemon Butter Sauce

Roasted Salmon with White Wine and Lemon Butter Sauce is a sophisticated yet simple dish, perfect for a dinner party or a comforting weeknight meal. The tender, flaky salmon is complemented by a rich, tangy sauce made with white wine, butter, and lemon. Here's how to make it:

---

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin on or off
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional, for flavor)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a richer sauce)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

2. Roast the Salmon:

• Roast the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. While the salmon roasts, prepare the sauce.

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.
• Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Allow the wine to reduce by half, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stir in the lemon juice and zest. If using heavy cream, add it now and let the sauce simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
• Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley or dill.

4. Serve:

• Transfer the roasted salmon to plates or a serving platter. Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over each fillet.
• Garnish with additional herbs and serve immediately.

---

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or zucchini.
• Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Add a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to round out the dish.

This Roasted Salmon with White Wine and Lemon Butter Sauce combines delicate, fresh flavors with a luxurious sauce that elevates the natural richness of the salmon. Enjoy!