Description
Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Sear the Salmon: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve: Return the salmon and shrimp to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect execution. First, pat the salmon and shrimp dry with paper towels; this ensures a good sear. For the salmon, start skin-side down if your fillets have skin, pressing gently to prevent curling. When cooking the shrimp, wait until the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid toughness. For the sauce, keep the heat at a gentle simmer after adding the cream to prevent it from breaking or becoming greasy. Stir constantly while adding the Parmesan to achieve a perfectly smooth, velvety texture.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with sides that can absorb the luxurious sauce. Serve it over a bed of steamed white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or angel hair pasta. For a lighter option, try it with roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. A slice of crusty bread is essential for scooping up every last bit of sauce from your plate.
How-to Summary
In brief: Season and sear salmon, then set aside. Sauté shrimp in the same pan and set aside. In the remaining fond, cook garlic briefly, then add heavy cream and Parmesan to create a simmering sauce. Return the seafood to the pan, coat with sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be thinner. Full-fat coconut milk is a good dairy-free alternative.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this sauce ahead of time? It’s best made fresh, as reheating can cause the cream to separate. Prepare the seafood and sauce components separately and combine just before serving.
What type of skillet is best? A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan is ideal for even heat distribution and creating a good sear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many pieces at once steams the seafood instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- High Heat for the Sauce: Boiling the cream sauce can cause it to curdle or split. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Grate fresh Parmesan for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Salmon and Shrimp with Creamy Garlic Sauce is an impressive yet approachable restaurant-quality meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a decadent, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion. The combination of tender seafood with a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream is truly irresistible. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!