Description
Grilled Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Sauce
Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets
8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, melt the butter.
Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked.
Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Parmesan cheese.
Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Place the seared salmon on a serving plate.
Top each fillet with cooked shrimp.
Drizzle the creamy sauce over the salmon and shrimp.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives for a vibrant finish.
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by patting the salmon and shrimp completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for a proper sear. For the salmon, ensure your skillet is preheated over medium heat before adding the oil. Place the fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and press gently for full contact. Do not move them for the full 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust. For the shrimp, cook just until opaque and “C”-shaped; overcooking makes them rubbery. When making the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the cream to prevent it from breaking or scalding. Whisk constantly as the Parmesan melts to create a smooth, velvety texture.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and elegant dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the creamy sauce. Serve it over a bed of lemon-herb orzo, creamy mashed potatoes, or simple steamed asparagus. For a low-carb option, try it with zucchini noodles or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
This gourmet meal comes together in under 30 minutes. The key steps are: sear seasoned salmon until golden, then set aside. Cook shrimp in the same pan and set aside. In the residual flavors, sauté garlic, then simmer cream, Dijon, and Parmesan into a thick sauce. Assemble by placing salmon on a plate, topping with shrimp, and drizzling with the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh chives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp and salmon? Yes, but fully thaw and pat them dry first. Excess water will steam the proteins and prevent proper searing.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be thinner. For a dairy-free option, full-fat coconut cream is an excellent substitute.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce base ahead, but it will thicken upon cooling. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen it.
What other herbs work for garnish? Fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon are fantastic alternatives to chives and pair wonderfully with seafood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many fillets at once lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steamed, not seared, salmon.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Cream: Adding Parmesan to rapidly boiling cream can cause it to clump. Ensure the sauce is at a gentle simmer.
- Skipping the Rest: Let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Conclusion
This Grilled Salmon with Shrimp and Creamy Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that is deceptively simple to master at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive, flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of perfectly seared salmon, succulent shrimp, and a rich, garlic-Parmesan sauce is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.