Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the fresh flavors of lemon and garlic with the rich, tender salmon. The buttery sauce is infused with aromatic garlic and fresh lemon juice, which perfectly complements the natural flavors of the fish. It’s a quick and easy recipe that requires minimal ingredients but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or want to impress guests with something light yet satisfying, this recipe is a winner. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon slices, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin) and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should be golden and crisp on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the lemon garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Finish the salmon: Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top. Let the salmon cook for an additional 1-2 minutes in the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: You can add fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or rosemary to the sauce for extra flavor.

• Baked version: If you prefer to bake the salmon, place the fillets in a baking dish, pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat and spice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The lemon garlic butter sauce will keep its flavor, but the salmon is best enjoyed fresh.

• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat with a bit of extra butter or olive oil to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Be sure to thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for best results.

What other fish can I use instead of salmon?

This recipe also works well with other types of fish such as trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the fish.

Can I make this recipe with salmon fillets that have skin on?

Yes, this recipe works great with salmon fillets that have skin on. Simply cook the skin-side down first, and it will become crispy while the flesh stays tender.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and not translucent.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the salmon with the lemon garlic butter sauce. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, allow it to cook a little longer after adding the lemon juice and zest, or you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or roasted potatoes to the skillet to make it a complete meal. Simply cook the veggies alongside the salmon or serve them on the side.

What can I serve with this dish?

This salmon pairs beautifully with sides like rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with many accompaniments.

Can I substitute the butter with something else?

Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter option, or use a plant-based butter to make the dish dairy-free.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

The Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and rich butter. It’s quick to make, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or even for a special occasion. The tender, flaky salmon paired with the buttery sauce creates a delicious meal that will satisfy your taste buds every time. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a healthy and indulgent meal in just 15 minutes!