Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp: Your New Favorite One-Pan Seafood Dinner
Discover the ultimate weeknight convenience with this incredibly quick, easy, and explosively flavorful Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp recipe. Imagine perfectly pan-seared, buttery salmon fillets paired with succulent shrimp, all bathed in a vibrant, savory lemon caper sauce. Serve this comforting seafood delight over your favorite pasta, creamy whipped potatoes, or fluffy rice for a truly satisfying meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes!
Prepare to impress with this tender and utterly delicious pan-seared salmon and shrimp dish, boasting a truly beautiful presentation that belies its simplicity. This recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner when time is short, yet elegant enough to serve as a show-stopping meal for a special occasion or loved one. The entire family will adore this comforting skillet recipe, as each bite of flaky salmon and juicy shrimp is met with a burst of bright, savory flavors from the exquisite lemon caper sauce.
While this lemon butter sauce is fantastic with just salmon, adding shrimp at the end elevates it to something truly special. For a complete meal, consider serving this seafood masterpiece with a side of fresh green vegetables, such as garlic cheese asparagus, to perfectly complement the rich flavors.
The versatile white wine lemon butter caper sauce is wonderful any time of year. Its light yet rich profile makes it a delightful choice for a refreshing summertime dinner, while still offering comforting warmth during colder months. Whenever you crave salmon that is rich, flaky, and perfectly soft on the inside with a delightful crispy exterior, this effortless salmon and shrimp recipe will quickly become your go-to. It promises a gourmet experience with minimal fuss.
A Family Favorite: Our Most Requested Seafood Meal
Are you a seafood lover? If you’re reading about our **Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce**, chances are you are! Here, seafood of all kinds is adored, but this particular recipe stands out as one of our absolute favorites and most frequently requested meals. In fact, it’s been affectionately dubbed “Birthday Dinner” by a couple of my kids. This means that out of all the special meals they could ask for on their big day, this creamy, tangy salmon and shrimp dish is their top pick. Its irresistible flavors and elegant presentation truly make it a celebration-worthy dish.
Why You Will Absolutely Love This Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp Recipe
- Healthy & Wholesome: This salmon in white wine sauce is crafted with nutritious ingredients you can feel great about. Salmon is an excellent source of lean protein and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, making this a smart choice for a balanced diet.
- Ready in Under 30 Minutes: For those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast, this recipe is a lifesaver. From start to finish, you’ll be enjoying a restaurant-quality seafood dinner in minutes, proving that gourmet doesn’t have to mean time-consuming.
- Effortless One-Skillet Meal: Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes! This entire dish – from the luscious sauce to the perfectly cooked salmon and shrimp – is prepared in a single pan. This makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you more time to savor your meal and less time scrubbing.
- Impressive Yet Simple: The beautiful golden-brown salmon, vibrant shrimp, and rich, creamy sauce create a stunning dish that looks incredibly fancy, yet it’s surprisingly simple to execute. Perfect for entertaining or just elevating your everyday dining experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it over a bed of al dente pasta, fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside fresh vegetables, this dish adapts beautifully to various sides, ensuring a satisfying meal for everyone.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp
For the complete detailed list of ingredients with precise measurements, please scroll down to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page!
Let’s dive into the key components that bring this incredible Creamy Lemon Caper Salmon and Shrimp recipe to life:
- Butter: The foundation of our rich sauce. You can use either salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference and control over seasoning.
- Fresh Garlic: Absolutely essential for a robust and aromatic flavor base in the lemon butter sauce. Always opt for fresh cloves for the best taste.
- Dry White Wine: A crucial ingredient for adding depth and sophistication to the sauce. Choose a drier variety like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or an un-oaked Chardonnay. Avoid sweet wines as they will alter the flavor profile. If you prefer not to use alcohol, extra chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted.
- Cornstarch: Used to create a beautifully thick and luscious sauce. For a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute with arrowroot powder.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The star of the show! Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the entire dish, providing that signature tangy zest to our creamy lemon caper sauce. Don’t use bottled lemon juice if possible, as the flavor isn’t comparable.
- Capers: These tiny, briny flower buds add a wonderful salty and slightly piquant flavor, perfectly complementing the lemon and cream.
- Heavy Cream (or Milk): This is what gives the sauce its incredible creaminess and luxurious texture. While heavy cream offers the richest result, you can use whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it may be slightly less thick.
- Chicken Broth: Provides a savory liquid base for the sauce. Vegetable broth works equally well, making this a fantastic recipe for pescatarians or those avoiding chicken products.
- Olive Oil: Used for searing the salmon to a golden-brown perfection, ensuring a crispy skin and tender interior.
Salmon Fillets: You’ll need four to six 5-ounce salmon fillets. Look for fresh, vibrant pink fillets with moist flesh. Skin-on or skin-off is fine; skin-on often yields crispier results.
Shrimp: We recommend about 24-30 medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Using pre-cooked shrimp saves time and ensures they are simply warmed through at the end, preventing overcooking. If using raw shrimp, you can add them to the pan a few minutes earlier to cook until pink and opaque.
How to Make Irresistible Salmon with Creamy Lemon Caper Sauce
Follow these simple steps to create a gourmet-quality seafood dinner right in your own kitchen.
Step 1: Begin the Sauce
In a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced fresh garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 2: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in two tablespoons of dry white wine. Allow it to simmer gently for two to three minutes, letting the alcohol cook off and the flavors concentrate. This step adds a wonderful depth to your sauce.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of cornstarch with one tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Pour this cornstarch slurry into the simmering wine mixture, whisking constantly. Then, add the fresh lemon juice and capers. Gradually whisk in one cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Continue whisking as the sauce gently simmers and begins to thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 4: Finish the Sauce
Stir in one cup of heavy cream (or milk) until well combined and heated through. Remove the sauce from the skillet, pour it into a separate bowl, and set it aside. This allows you to use the same pan for searing the seafood.
Step 5: Sear the Salmon
Return the skillet to medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, into the hot pan. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 6: Cook the Salmon to Perfection
Cook the salmon for six to seven minutes on the first side until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust and easily releases from the pan. Then, gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional six to seven minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 7: Add the Shrimp (Optional but Recommended)
If you’re adding shrimp, do so in the last two to three minutes of the salmon’s cooking time. If using pre-cooked shrimp, you only need to warm them through until they are heated. If using raw shrimp, cook until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 8: Reheat the Sauce
Once the salmon and shrimp are cooked, carefully remove them from the skillet and plate them. While the skillet is still warm (or briefly return it to low heat), pour the lemon caper sauce back into the pan. Give it a gentle stir until it’s hot and perfectly warmed through again.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Generously spoon the reheated creamy lemon caper sauce over the plated salmon fillets and shrimp. Serve any remaining sauce on the side for dipping or extra indulgence. Garnish with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for a touch of freshness and extra visual appeal.
Serve immediately with your choice of pasta, rice, or fluffy mashed potatoes, and savor every exquisite bite!
Don’t Miss Out! Pin This Recipe for Later!
Loved this incredible recipe? Make sure you can easily find it again! Pin this Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you leave. It’s the perfect way to keep this delicious meal handy for your next dinner!
Perfect Pairings: What Can You Serve with Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp?
This versatile seafood dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal. Here are some fantastic accompaniments that truly shine:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food, mashed potatoes provide a smooth canvas for soaking up every last drop of the luscious lemon caper sauce. Try our recipe for The Best Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes for an easy option.
- Fluffy Rice: A simple yet effective choice, white or brown rice offers a light base that complements the rich flavors of the salmon and sauce.
- Al Dente Pasta: Toss linguine or fettuccine with a little extra sauce for a complete and satisfying meal. The pasta absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- Roasted or Sautéed Asparagus: A classic pairing with salmon, asparagus adds a crisp, earthy balance.
- Green Beans Almondine: Tender-crisp green beans tossed with toasted almonds and butter offer a delightful texture and nutty flavor.
- Sautéed Spinach or Kale: Quick and healthy, these greens wilt down perfectly to add a nutritious element without overpowering the main dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a slightly bitter and caramelized contrast, roasted Brussels sprouts are an excellent choice.
- Fresh Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy seafood.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a good loaf of crusty bread to sop up all that delicious sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Salmon & Shrimp
Can I Use Frozen Salmon Fillets?
Absolutely, you can definitely cook frozen salmon! Many brands offer high-quality frozen fillets that are perfect for this recipe. If cooking from frozen, be mindful that it might take a few extra minutes, and be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can dry out quickly. Thawing beforehand is often preferred for optimal texture.
What is the Best Way to Defrost Salmon?
For the best results and food safety, it’s always recommended to defrost fish in the refrigerator overnight. Simply transfer your frozen salmon from the freezer to the fridge the day before you plan to cook it. If you need to defrost it more quickly, you can place the vacuum-sealed package of salmon under cool running water until thawed, usually taking about 30-60 minutes depending on thickness. Avoid defrosting on the counter at room temperature.
What if I Don’t Have White Wine for the Sauce?
While white wine adds a wonderful depth of flavor, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth. A tablespoon of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also be added along with the broth for a touch of acidity, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, with a few adjustments! For the butter, use a plant-based butter alternative. For the cream, full-fat canned coconut milk (the creamy part from the top) or a good quality unsweetened plant-based cream (like cashew or oat cream) can work, though the flavor will be slightly different. Ensure your broth is also dairy-free.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftover Salmon & Shrimp with Lemon Caper Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low to medium heat, or in the microwave at short intervals, until just heated through. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough.
Expert Tips for a Flawless Lemon Caper Salmon & Shrimp
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Using fresh, high-quality salmon, shrimp, and lemon will make a significant difference in the final taste of your dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing salmon, ensure there’s enough space between fillets. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing, and a less crispy crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Choose Your Wine Wisely: For the best flavor in your sauce, always opt for a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or an un-oaked Chardonnay. Avoid anything sweet, as it will alter the intended savory profile of the sauce.
- Keep an Eye on the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. If using pre-cooked shrimp, you just need to warm them through for the last 2-3 minutes. If using raw shrimp, cook until they turn pink and opaque, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
- Fresh Lemon is Key: Bottled lemon juice simply doesn’t compare to the bright, fresh flavor of freshly squeezed lemon. It truly makes a difference in the sauce.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill, along with a few extra lemon wedges, adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and the flavor.
Similar Seafood Recipes You’ll Love to Explore
If you’re a fan of delicious seafood, just like we are, then you’re sure to enjoy these other fantastic seafood recipes that are perfect for any occasion:
- Healthy Blackened Salmon Burgers: A flavorful twist on a classic burger.
- Easy Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner: A convenient and healthy meal cooked all on one pan.
- Savory Tuna Spaghetti: A creative and comforting pasta dish.
- Quick 10-Minute Salmon Tacos: Fast, fresh, and bursting with flavor.
- Sesame Ginger Salmon with Crunchy Ramen Slaw: An Asian-inspired delight with a fantastic crunch.
Now, let’s get into the kitchen and create this spectacular Salmon & Shrimp with Creamy Lemon Caper Sauce!
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Print Recipe
Salmon & Shrimp with Creamy Lemon Caper Sauce
This Salmon & Shrimp with Creamy Lemon Caper Sauce offers a stunning presentation that looks elegant for guests, yet it’s so quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for a delicious weeknight meal.
2 mins
20 mins
22 mins
Equipment
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- 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, or raw and prepared)
- 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
- Caper Sauce:
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 2 Tablespoons capers
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water
- 2 Tablespoons dry white wine
- juice of 1/2 fresh lemon (about 1 Tablespoon)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the dry white wine and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to deepen.
- Whisk in the cornstarch mixture (cornstarch dissolved in cold water) to the pan.
- Add the fresh lemon juice and capers to the simmering sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Continue whisking as the sauce gently simmers and begins to thicken.
- Stir in the heavy cream until it’s well combined and heated through.
- Remove the sauce from the skillet, pour it into a separate bowl, and set aside.
- Return the skillet to medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Add the salmon fillets to the hot pan.
- Cook the salmon for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and has a beautiful golden crust.
- If adding shrimp, incorporate them during the last 2-3 minutes of the salmon’s cooking time, just to warm them through (if pre-cooked) or cook until pink and opaque (if raw).
- Plate your cooked salmon and shrimp. While the skillet is still warm, add the reserved lemon caper sauce back into the pan and stir briefly to reheat it until hot.
- Generously pour the hot sauce over the salmon fillets and shrimp. Serve any remaining sauce on the side.
Notes
Nutrition Information
This recipe was originally published on January 14, 2014, and has been comprehensively updated on [Current Date] to enhance user experience, provide more detailed instructions, and optimize for modern culinary preferences.
