Simple White Sauce (Béchamel Sauce) Recipe

This easy homemade white sauce, Béchamel sauce, is a versatile base that can elevate any dish.  While store-bought versions are convenient, making it from scratch is simple and rewarding.  Use this creamy sauce to bake fish for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

For the White Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• A pinch of black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk

For the Fish:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)

Optional additions: Capers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Directions:

Making the Sauce:

1.    In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter.

2.    Add the flour, whisking constantly to create a roux.  Cook for 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t brown.

3.    Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4.    Gradually add the milk, whisking to prevent lumps, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5.    Season with salt and black pepper, then cook until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.

6.    Stir in the fresh parsley and remove the pan from heat.

Baking the Fish:

1.    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2.    Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish.  Pour the prepared white sauce evenly over the fish.

3.    Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.

4.    Bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked and the cheese is golden.

Tip: Scatter capers or chop sun-dried tomatoes over the fish for added flavor before baking.

If you have leftover white wine, then add a slash of white wine while making the sauce

Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish as is, or pair it with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal!