If you love a dish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and cooked all in one beautiful pan, you’re going to adore this Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon and Shrimp Skillet Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is delightfully simple to make, combining tender salmon fillets and succulent shrimp in a luscious lemon butter sauce that is creamy, tangy, and comforting all at once. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a plate you’ll want to savor bite after bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your skillet. Each one plays a key role in making the salmon and shrimp shine with a rich, buttery lemony finish that’s truly irresistible.
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Make sure they’re fresh or properly thawed for even cooking and sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a beautiful depth of fragrance that infuses the butter sauce.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The foundation of the creamy sauce, controlling the richness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Provides a bright, zesty punch that cuts through the richness elegantly.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to finish the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that boost every flavor on the plate.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): For a subtle hint of heat that wakes up the palate.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon and Shrimp Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing the salmon fillets under cold water and carefully pat them dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear later on. Peel and devein the shrimp if that’s not already done—this ensures every bite is tender and clean, without any unwanted bits.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic in Butter
Place a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter until it starts to shimmer gently. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds just until you can smell that intoxicating aroma—but be quick, you don’t want it to burn because burnt garlic turns bitter!
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add those plump shrimp to the skillet right into the fragrant butter and garlic. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then cook them until they turn a lovely pink color—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. They’ll finish cooking later, so don’t worry if they’re not quite done yet.
Step 4: Sear the Salmon
Now nestle your salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Season them well with salt, pepper, and if you like, just a pinch of cayenne for a little kick. Cook the salmon undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes so the skin crisps up beautifully and the flesh cooks halfway through. This step builds rich flavor and texture.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Simmer
Once your salmon has a gorgeous golden crust, squeeze the fresh lemon juice all over the skillet. Let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the shrimp finish cooking completely, soaking up the tangy buttery sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley right over the skillet. This adds a bright green contrast and a fresh, herbaceous touch that elevates the whole dish. Serve everything hot and enjoy the blend of creamy, citrusy goodness with every comforting bite.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon and Shrimp Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is ideal for garnishing because it adds a light herbal freshness and a burst of vibrant green. If you want to raise the wow factor, lemon zest or thin lemon slices on top add an invigorating aroma and beautiful visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs beautifully with simple, wholesome sides. Steamed rice soaks up all the luscious sauce, while roasted or sautéed vegetables like asparagus or green beans offer a nice crunch and earthiness that balances the creamy seafood. For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a fresh leafy salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salmon and shrimp right from the skillet for a rustic, welcoming touch that encourages everyone to dive in. Alternatively, plate the fillets and shrimp individually atop a mound of buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, drizzled with extra lemon butter sauce for an elegant finish perfect for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon and Shrimp Skillet Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It keeps well for up to 2 days, but try to enjoy it as fresh as possible for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While seafood dishes like this are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain flavor integrity.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it may overcook the delicate fish and shrimp or cause rubbery texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps prevent excess water that can make the sauce watery and ensures even cooking.
What can I substitute for salmon in this recipe?
If salmon isn’t your favorite or available, thick white fish fillets like cod, halibut, or tilapia work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking time so the fish remains moist and tender.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. The lemon juice and garlic will still give you that signature brightness and flavor without compromising taste.
What’s the best way to get a crispy salmon skin?
Pat the skin dry before placing it in a hot skillet with melted butter and don’t disturb it while cooking. This creates a crispy, golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender fish.
Can I add more vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini are great additions. Add them after cooking the shrimp to keep them tender yet vibrant and add even more freshness to the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that’s simple to prepare yet delivers sensational flavor and comfort, and this Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon and Shrimp Skillet Recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become your go-to when you want something quick, elegant, and delicious. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite to share with your loved ones.
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Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon and Shrimp Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This delicious Salmon and Shrimp recipe features succulent seafood cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, brightened with fresh lemon juice and garnished with parsley. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a quick dinner served alongside rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Other Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: Rinse the salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done.
- Heat the skillet and sauté garlic: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring occasionally until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the salmon fillets: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet with the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and the salmon begins to cook through.
- Add lemon juice and simmer: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seafood. Continue to simmer everything together for 2-3 more minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Serve hot alongside rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure salmon fillets are patted dry to achieve a crispy skin.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount based on your preferred spice level or omit it for a milder flavor.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite sautéed vegetables.
- If you prefer, substitute unsalted butter with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking of seafood.
