German Culture

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Lachs mit Senfsauce – German Salmon with Mustard Sauce Recipe


Lachs mit Senfsauce is a delicate, flavorful dish often served during Easter and spring holidays in Germany. It features lightly seared or poached salmon, topped with a creamy mustard sauce, usually enhanced with fresh dill, lemon juice, and cream.

This dish is perfect for those seeking a lighter Easter main course without sacrificing flavor. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, potatoes, or asparagus and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.

In this guide, we’ll explore the simple beauty of this German classic and walk you through each step to prepare it at home.

History & Cultural Significance

A Lighter Easter Option

In Germany, fish dishes are traditionally served on Good Friday, when many Christians avoid meat. For Easter weekend or spring gatherings, salmon is a popular choice due to its flavor, elegance, and ease of preparation.

The pairing of fish with Senfsauce (mustard sauce) is common in northern and coastal regions, where mustard is a key condiment. The creamy mustard-dill combination adds a tangy balance to the richness of the salmon and brings out the best of fresh spring ingredients.

Looking for more springtime dishes? Explore Spargelsalat or Frühlingsgemüse.

Ingredients & Preparation

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 4 salmon fillets (150–200g each)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

For the Mustard Sauce:

  • 200ml (¾ cup) cream or crème fraîche
  • 1 tbsp Dijon or German mustard
  • 1 tsp whole-grain mustard (optional for texture)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Lachs mit Senfsauce

Step 1: Cook the Salmon

  1. Season the salmon with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
  3. Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes per side (or until just cooked through).
  4. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
  2. Heat gently and stir until smooth.
  3. Add chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Serve

  1. Plate the salmon and spoon mustard sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with fresh dill or lemon slices.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

How to Serve

Lachs mit Senfsauce pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed white asparagus
  • Buttered new potatoes
  • Frühlingsgemüse (spring vegetables)
  • Crusty German bread

Variations

In northern Germany, the sauce may include white wine or a touch of horseradish. In Bavaria, it’s sometimes served with egg noodles or spaetzle.

Lachs mit Senfsauce is a fresh and refined Easter dish that’s perfect for spring gatherings. With lightly seared salmon and a creamy, tangy mustard sauce, it offers a flavorful alternative to heavier roasts.

Easy to prepare and beautifully elegant on the plate, this recipe is ideal for both special occasions and everyday cooking.

Looking for more Easter recipes? Try Easter Ham with Mustard Glaze, Osterbrot, or Spargelsalat.

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