Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp: An Easy One-Skillet Seafood Dinner
This exquisite salmon and shrimp dish, featuring a velvety lemon caper sauce, offers a perfect blend of rich flavors and effortless preparation. Imagine buttery, pan-seared salmon and succulent shrimp drenched in a bright, savory sauce that elevates every bite. Whether served over a bed of al dente pasta, fluffy whipped potatoes, or fragrant rice, this recipe promises an extra round of comfort and elegance. Best of all, you can have a gourmet-quality dinner ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
With its **tender** texture and incredibly **yummy** taste, all presented with a **beautiful display**, this pan-seared salmon and shrimp with lemon caper sauce is truly **perfect**. It’s versatile enough for a quick and **easy weeknight dinner** when time is short, yet elegant enough to impress someone you love with an extravagant meal. This **comforting skillet recipe** is a guaranteed hit with the entire family. Each forkful of perfectly cooked salmon and tender shrimp bursts with an array of vibrant flavors, making every bite an experience to savor.
While the lemon butter sauce is fantastic with just salmon, adding shrimp right at the end introduces an “extra” layer of indulgence and texture. This dynamic duo pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh green vegetables, such as garlic cheese asparagus, for a complete and balanced meal.
The delightful white wine lemon butter caper sauce is incredibly adaptable, making it suitable for any time of the year. Its light and zesty profile is especially refreshing for a summer dinner, but its richness provides warmth on a cooler evening. Whenever you’re craving salmon that is **rich**, **flaky**, and perfectly **soft** on the inside with a desirable **crispy** skin on the outside, this easy salmon recipe will quickly become your go-to. It promises consistent perfection with minimal effort.
A Beloved Family Favorite: Our Most Requested Meal
Who doesn’t love a delicious seafood dish? If you’re reading this post about **Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce**, chances are you’re a fellow seafood enthusiast. In my family, seafood of all kinds is highly cherished, but this particular recipe stands out as one of our absolute favorites and undoubtedly our most requested meal. It holds such a special place that a couple of my children have even christened it their “Birthday Dinner.” This means that out of all the incredible meals they could choose for their special day, this one consistently wins their hearts and taste buds. It’s a testament to its irresistible flavor and comforting appeal.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
This Lemon Caper Salmon and Shrimp isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why you’ll want to add this incredible dish to your regular rotation:
- Healthy & Wholesome: This salmon in white wine sauce is crafted with wholesome, nutritious ingredients you can feel genuinely good about. Salmon is a powerhouse of healthy fats, particularly omega-3s, and high-quality protein, contributing to a balanced diet. Paired with fresh lemon and vibrant capers, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes your body.
- Ready in Under 30 Minutes: In today’s fast-paced world, finding a simple yet spectacular recipe that comes together quickly is a treasure. If you’re on the hunt for a gourmet-tasting meal that’s ready in a flash, you’re going to adore this speedy salmon and shrimp dish. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious dinner without the lengthy cooking time.
- One-Skillet Convenience: Say goodbye to a mountain of dirty dishes! This recipe streamlines the cooking process by preparing the sauce, salmon, and shrimp all in the same pan. The magic of a one-skillet meal is not just about reducing cleanup; it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and delicious dish. Who doesn’t appreciate the simplicity and efficiency of a single pan dinner?
- Impressive Presentation: Despite its ease of preparation, this dish boasts a visually stunning presentation. The vibrant colors of the salmon, the delicate pink of the shrimp, and the creamy, golden sauce make it look like something straight out of a fine dining restaurant. It’s perfect for entertaining guests or simply making an ordinary meal feel extraordinary.
- Versatile Pairing Options: This recipe is incredibly adaptable to various side dishes. Whether you prefer the comforting embrace of pasta, the richness of mashed potatoes, or the lightness of roasted vegetables, this salmon and shrimp will complement them beautifully, making it a flexible choice for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients for Your Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce
Crafting this exquisite dish requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. For the full, detailed list of ingredients with precise measurements, make sure to scroll down to the printable recipe card below!
- Butter: The foundation of our creamy sauce. You can use either salted or unsalted butter for this recipe, adjusting any additional salt to taste. Butter adds richness and a beautiful gloss to the sauce.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for a robust and aromatic flavor in the lemon butter sauce. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best results, as fresh garlic provides a much more potent and authentic taste.
- White Wine: Choose a dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc. These varieties will contribute a sophisticated depth and acidity to the sauce without adding unwanted sweetness. Make sure it’s a wine you’d enjoy drinking!
- Cornstarch: This ingredient acts as a thickening agent, ensuring our sauce achieves that perfect, luscious consistency. For a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with arrowroot powder.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable! Its bright, zesty acidity is what makes this yummy lemon caper cream sauce truly shine and provides a wonderful counterpoint to the richness of the butter and cream.
- Cream: For the ultimate creamy texture, heavy cream is recommended. However, if you’re looking for a slightly lighter alternative, whole milk or half-and-half can also be used, though the sauce’s richness may vary slightly.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds another layer of savory depth to the sauce. For those following a pescatarian diet or simply preferring a different flavor profile, vegetable broth works perfectly as a substitute.
- Salmon Fillets: You’ll need four to six five-ounce salmon fillets. Look for fresh, vibrant pink fillets with moist flesh. Pat them dry before searing to ensure a beautiful crispy skin. Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its flavor and nutritional profile, but responsibly farmed salmon is also a great option.
- Shrimp: This recipe uses peeled and pre-cooked shrimp for ultimate convenience, which I often buy prepared this way to save time. However, if you prefer, you can easily prepare your own fresh shrimp. If using raw shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined before adding them to the pan towards the end of the cooking process until they turn pink and opaque.
How to Create the Perfect Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce
Follow these simple steps to bring this sensational seafood dish to life. Remember, the key is good timing and fresh ingredients!
Step 1: Begin with the Aromatic Base
In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
Step 2: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the dry white wine. Let it simmer and cook off the alcohol for approximately two to three minutes. This process, known as deglazing, adds a wonderful layer of flavor to the sauce while allowing the harsh alcohol notes to evaporate.
Step 3: Thicken and Infuse the Sauce
While the wine simmers, prepare your cornstarch mixture by whisking one tablespoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Whisk this mixture into the simmering wine. Next, stir in the fresh lemon juice and the briny capers. Continue to whisk in the chicken broth, allowing the sauce to gently thicken to your desired consistency. It should become beautifully velvety.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Finally, stir in the heavy cream until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Once the sauce reaches this luxurious texture, carefully pour it into a separate bowl and set it aside. This step prevents the sauce from over-reducing while you cook the fish and shrimp, ensuring it’s perfect when ready to serve.
Step 5: Sear the Salmon Fillets
Return the same skillet (no need to clean it!) to medium-high heat. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the pan. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if they have skin. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 6: Achieve Perfect Flakiness
Cook the salmon for six to seven minutes on the first side, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully. Then, gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional six to seven minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 7: Introduce the Shrimp
If you’re adding shrimp to your dish, now’s the time! If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them to the skillet with the salmon during the last two to three minutes of the salmon’s cooking time, just to warm them through. If using raw shrimp, add them a bit earlier, cooking until they turn opaque and pink, typically 3-5 minutes depending on size.
Step 8: Reheat and Combine the Sauce
Once the salmon and shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and plate them. While the skillet is still warm (but off the direct heat), pour the reserved lemon caper sauce back into the pan. Give it a gentle stir to re-warm and bring it back to its luscious consistency. The residual heat from the skillet will be enough to heat the sauce without over-reducing it.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Generously spoon the warm, creamy lemon caper sauce over the perfectly seared salmon fillets and tender shrimp. For those who love extra sauce, serve any remaining sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with a fresh lemon slice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of brightness.
Serve this exquisite dish with your favorite accompaniments like pasta, rice, or velvety whipped potatoes, and prepare to enjoy a truly memorable meal!
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What Are the Best Accompaniments for Salmon & Shrimp?
The beauty of this creamy lemon caper salmon and shrimp dish lies in its versatility when it comes to side pairings. So many wonderful things can accompany salmon to create a complete and satisfying meal. Consider:
- Sautéed Greens: Freshly sautéed spinach or kale with a touch of garlic and olive oil makes a light and healthy complement.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or green beans, tossed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, offer a tender-crisp texture and vibrant color. Brussels sprouts, roasted until caramelized, are another excellent choice.
- Potatoes: For a comforting meal, classic creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect canvas for the luscious sauce. Roasted new potatoes or even a simple baked potato would also be delightful.
- Grains: Beyond pasta and rice, quinoa or couscous can provide a lighter grain option.
- Salad: A crisp side salad with a simple vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the sauce, adding freshness and crunch to your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Salmon
Can You Cook Frozen Salmon Fillets?
Absolutely, you can definitely cook salmon directly from a frozen state! This is a fantastic time-saver. When cooking frozen salmon, you might need to increase the cooking time slightly compared to thawed fillets. The key is to be careful not to overcook the salmon. You can bake it, pan-sear it, or even air-fry it from frozen. Just ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily.
Is it Safe to Defrost Salmon on the Counter?
For food safety reasons, it is generally not recommended to defrost salmon (or any seafood) on the kitchen counter at room temperature. The safest methods for thawing fish are either in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging the sealed fish package under cool running water. Defrosting in the refrigerator allows for a slow, even thaw. If you need it quicker, placing it in a bowl of cool water, changing the water every 30 minutes, works efficiently. This prevents the outer layers from warming up too quickly while the center remains frozen, which can lead to bacterial growth.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Salmon & Shrimp Dish
To ensure your Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, keep these valuable tips in mind:
- Storing Leftovers: Any leftover salmon and shrimp, along with the sauce, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent drying out the seafood.
- Choosing the Right Wine: For this recipe, it’s crucial to use a drier white wine. Excellent choices include white cooking wine, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio. Avoid sweet wines, as their sugar content can alter the flavor profile of the savory lemon caper sauce.
- Perfectly Seared Salmon: Ensure your salmon fillets are patted thoroughly dry with paper towels before searing. This promotes a crispy skin and prevents steaming. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain consistent heat and achieve that beautiful crust.
- Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. If using pre-cooked shrimp, you’re just warming them through, which takes only a couple of minutes. Raw shrimp will turn opaque and pink in about 3-5 minutes. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
- Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it gently for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally. If it becomes too thick, a splash of extra chicken broth or cream can help thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill, along with a few extra capers and a fresh lemon wedge, can add both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor to the finished dish.
More Irresistible Seafood Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re as big a fan of delicious seafood as we are, you’re in for a treat! Here are some other fantastic seafood recipes that are sure to delight your palate and become new family favorites:
- Healthy Salmon Burgers with BLT Slaw: A flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional burgers, these salmon patties are spiced just right and topped with a refreshing slaw.
- Sheet Pan Salmon Dinner with Potatoes & Green Beans: The ultimate easy weeknight meal, this recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything on one sheet pan, offering tender salmon and perfectly roasted vegetables.
- Classic Tuna Spaghetti: A comforting and economical dish, this tuna spaghetti combines pantry staples into a quick, flavorful pasta meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
- Quick & Easy Salmon Tacos: Ready in just 10 minutes, these vibrant salmon tacos are bursting with fresh flavors and make for a light, delicious, and speedy lunch or dinner.
- Sesame Ginger Salmon with Crunchy Ramen Slaw: An Asian-inspired delight, this dish features succulent salmon glazed in a sweet and savory sesame ginger sauce, served over a refreshing, crunchy ramen slaw.
Let’s get cooking and create some incredible Salmon with Lemon Caper Sauce!
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Print Recipe
Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce
Equipment
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12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
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Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
Ingredients
- 4-6 – 5 ounce Salmon Fillets
- 24-30 Shrimp peeled and cooked (I buy them that way)
- 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
- Caper Sauce:
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 2 Tablespoons capers
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 2 Tablespoons white wine
- juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 Tablespoon) *Save the rest for garnish if desired
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
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In a skillet, over medium heat, melt butter with garlic.
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Add wine and cook off alcohol for a couple of minutes.
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Whisk in the cornstarch mixture.
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Add wine, lemon juice and capers.
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Whisk in broth, it will begin to thicken.
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Add cream and stir.
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Pour into bowl and set aside.
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In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil, add Salmon Fillets.
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Cook for 6-7 minutes and flip them. Cook on that side for 6-7 minutes more.
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If you want to add the shrimp, do so in about the last 2-3 minutes. They are just getting warmed up.
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Plate your fish, and while the skillet is still warm, add the sauce back in, and give it a stir to get it hot again.
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Pour over the fillets, serve the remaining sauce on the side.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on January 14, 2014. It was thoroughly updated to improve user experience, enhance SEO, and provide additional helpful content, then reshared on July 16, 2021.
