Salmon with Hollandaise

Salmon with Hollandaise is a timeless, elegant dish that perfectly balances rich, buttery flavors with the fresh, delicate taste of salmon. Whether served for a luxurious breakfast, brunch, or a refined dinner, this dish feels special without being overly complicated. The silky hollandaise sauce—made with egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice—adds indulgence, while salmon brings heart-healthy fats and a naturally savory flavor.

This recipe is inspired by classic French techniques paired with simple, modern cooking methods. It’s the kind of dish that looks restaurant-quality but can easily be made at home with the right guidance.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with elegance. Salmon cooks quickly and reliably, while hollandaise transforms it into something truly luxurious. The contrast between flaky fish and creamy sauce is irresistible, and the dish works equally well for special occasions or a comforting weekend meal.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Restaurant-quality dish made at home
• Rich yet balanced flavors
• Packed with omega-3 healthy fats
• Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner
• Pairs beautifully with many sides

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course / Brunch
• Cuisine: French / American
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2–4
• Calories (Approx.): 480–520 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (5–6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the Hollandaise Sauce

• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and warm
• ¼ tsp salt
• Pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Season and cook the salmon
2. Prepare hollandaise sauce
3. Plate salmon and spoon sauce over top
4. Serve immediately

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes. Flip gently and cook another 3–4 minutes until flaky and cooked through (internal temp: 145°F / 63°C). Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 3: Start the Hollandaise

In a heatproof bowl, whisk egg yolks and lemon juice until pale and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Double Boiler Method

Place bowl over gently simmering water (do not let bowl touch water). Whisk continuously while slowly drizzling in warm melted butter until sauce thickens.

Step 5: Season Sauce

Remove from heat and whisk in salt and cayenne or paprika. Adjust lemon juice if needed.

Step 6: Assemble

Place salmon fillets on plates and spoon warm hollandaise sauce generously over the top.

How to Serve Salmon with Hollandaise

• Serve with steamed asparagus or green beans
• Pair with roasted potatoes or hash browns
• Garnish with fresh dill or parsley
• Add lemon wedges for brightness

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality salmon for best flavor
• Keep hollandaise warm, not hot, to prevent curdling
• Whisk constantly while adding butter
• Serve immediately for best texture
• If sauce thickens too much, whisk in warm water

Variations (Detailed)

1. Poached Salmon with Hollandaise

Poach salmon gently in salted water with herbs for a lighter version.

2. Baked Salmon with Hollandaise

Bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes instead of pan-searing.

3. Smoked Salmon Hollandaise

Serve smoked salmon topped with hollandaise for a brunch-style dish.

4. Dairy-Free Hollandaise

Use vegan butter alternatives and lemon juice.

5. Herb Hollandaise

Add fresh dill, chives, or tarragon to the sauce for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

• Cooked salmon: store in airtight container for 2–3 days
• Hollandaise: best used immediately; can be stored for 1 day with gentle reheating

Freezing

• Salmon can be frozen (without sauce) for up to 2 months
• Hollandaise sauce does not freeze well

Special Equipment Needed

• Nonstick or stainless-steel skillet
• Whisk
• Heatproof bowl
• Saucepan (for double boiler)
• Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Conclusion

Salmon with Hollandaise is a luxurious yet approachable dish that brings together the best of simple seafood cooking and classic French sauce-making. Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or an elevated weeknight dinner, this recipe proves that elegant food doesn’t have to be complicated. With flaky salmon and rich, velvety hollandaise, every bite feels indulgent and satisfying.