Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
Highlighted under: Light & Fresh
I absolutely love cooking salmon, especially when it’s drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce combined with the brightness of fresh lemon. This dish is quick and easy, yet it feels special enough for company. The garlicky aroma fills the kitchen and invites everyone to the table, and the zesty lemon brightens the rich flavor of the salmon. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that looks and tastes gourmet, perfect for any night of the week.
I remember the first time I made this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon. It was a weeknight, and I wanted something delicious but quick. The combination of garlic and lemon makes the salmon come alive, and the butter adds a luxurious touch that takes it over the top. I was pleasantly surprised at how a handful of ingredients could create such depth of flavor.
What really sets this dish apart is the cooking method. By searing the salmon in a skillet and then finishing it with the garlic butter in the pan, I was able to achieve a perfectly cooked piece, with a nice crispy edge and tender center. One tip: be sure not to overcook the fish; it only needs about 4-5 minutes per side!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich garlicky flavor perfectly balanced with fresh lemon juice
- Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights
- Impressive presentation for guests with minimal effort
Understanding the Ingredients
The simplicity of this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe lies in its few, yet impactful, ingredients. Fresh salmon fillets are the star of the dish, providing a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlicky sauce. When selecting your salmon, look for fillets with bright, firm flesh and minimal odors. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a superior flavor profile compared to farmed varieties, making it a great choice for this dish.
The butter in this recipe is essential not just for flavor but also for achieving a luscious sauce that coats the salmon beautifully. Unsalted butter is recommended as it allows better control over the salinity of the dish. If you're looking for a lighter option, you could substitute half the butter with olive oil, which will lend its own flavor while reducing the overall richness.
Mastering Cooking Techniques
Searing the salmon correctly is crucial to develop a delightful crust and seal in moisture. When placing the fillets in the skillet, it's important to keep the skin side down for optimal crispiness. Avoid flipping too soon; wait until the salmon releases naturally from the skillet, which typically takes 4-5 minutes. This will ensure a beautifully golden crust with excellent texture.
As you add the garlic and remaining butter, be cautious not to let the garlic burn, as this can turn bitter. Medium heat is ideal for this step, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without overcooking. Spoon the melted buttery garlic over the salmon continuously to enhance the flavor infusion—this technique is called basting and is vital for delivering deep, garlicky goodness to each bite.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon:
Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted.
Sear the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them.
Add Garlic and Butter
Flip the salmon fillets and add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, spooning the melted butter over the salmon.
Finish with Lemon
Once the salmon is cooked through, add the lemon juice and cook for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with your choice of side.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add some lemon zest while cooking or serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the salmon just before eating.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Light and fresh options like sautéed asparagus or a crisp garden salad can balance out the richness of the salmon. For heartier choices, consider serving it with roasted potatoes or creamy risotto. Whatever you pick, make sure it complements the lemony notes of the salmon for a well-rounded meal.
For a special touch, drizzle a bit of extra lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest over the salmon just before serving. This brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. I also love adding a side of lemon wedges so guests can customize the tartness to their liking.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep it moist during reheating, place a damp paper towel over the salmon before microwaving for short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying it out. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.
Freezing is another option if you wish to extend its shelf life. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Note that while the texture might change slightly upon reheating, the flavor will still be delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
→ What can I serve with this salmon?
This dish pairs well with asparagus, rice, or a fresh salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
While butter adds a rich flavor, you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
I absolutely love cooking salmon, especially when it’s drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce combined with the brightness of fresh lemon. This dish is quick and easy, yet it feels special enough for company. The garlicky aroma fills the kitchen and invites everyone to the table, and the zesty lemon brightens the rich flavor of the salmon. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that looks and tastes gourmet, perfect for any night of the week.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How-To Steps
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until melted.
Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them.
Flip the salmon fillets and add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, spooning the melted butter over the salmon.
Once the salmon is cooked through, add the lemon juice and cook for an additional minute to combine the flavors.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with your choice of side.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add some lemon zest while cooking or serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the salmon just before eating.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g