Garlic Butter Salmon: Flaky & Juicy with Bold Flavor

There’s something magical about a dish that hits all the right notes. Garlic butter salmon is not just any meal; it’s a culinary hug that wraps you in warmth and comfort, leaving you with a smile wider than the plate it’s served on. Imagine flaky, juicy salmon fillets swimming in a pool of rich, garlicky butter, bursting with bold savory flavors that dance across your taste buds like they’re at a lively party. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share moments that matter.

I remember the first time I made garlic butter salmon for my friends during a cozy dinner party. The aroma wafting through my kitchen was so intoxicating that I half-expected them to show up with forks in hand, ready to dive right in. Watching their faces light up as they took their first bites was priceless—truly a moment worth savoring. Whether you’re celebrating an occasion or simply want to indulge on a weeknight, this dish promises an amazing flavor experience.

I’ll never forget my friend’s delighted reaction when I served this dish—it truly stole the show during our gathering.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh or thawed fillets; they should be bright pink and firm for best results.

• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness; plus, who doesn’t love butter?

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic breath is totally worth it here.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.

• Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor; don’t skip this!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite—season generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil for easy cleanup later.

Prepare Your Salmon: Pat each salmon fillet dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Make the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. The aroma should be heavenly—like your kitchen is hosting a fancy restaurant.

Add It All Together: Place seasoned salmon fillets in your greased baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them. Make sure each fillet is coated evenly for maximum flavor.

Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook; dry salmon is no one’s friend.

Garnish & Serve**: Once out of the oven, sprinkle additional fresh parsley on top for color and extra zing. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or fluffy rice—you deserve it!

Enjoy this delightful garlic butter salmon while reminiscing about those memorable dinner parties—it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

You Must Know

• Garlic butter salmon is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with bold flavors
• The buttery aroma and flaky texture make this dish irresistible, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself
• Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Sear the salmon skin-side down in a hot skillet, then transfer to the oven for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out garlic for shallots or add herbs like dill for a fresh twist. Lemon slices on top can add a zesty flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain its moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a bolder flavor that makes the dish shine
• Choosing wild-caught salmon enhances taste and sustainability, ensuring you’re making a responsible choice
• Letting the salmon rest after cooking keeps it juicy and tender

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first dinner party where I nervously served garlic butter salmon—everyone loved it, and I felt like a gourmet chef!

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What sides pair well with garlic butter salmon?

Roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish beautifully.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F and flake easily with a fork.

Print

Garlic Butter Salmon

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich, savory goodness of garlic butter salmon—a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. This easy-to-make recipe features flaky salmon fillets bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, complemented by a splash of lemon and fresh parsley. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this mouthwatering dish will impress your guests and leave everyone craving more.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 (6 oz) salmon fillets
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley until well combined.
4. Place seasoned salmon in the baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over each fillet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with additional parsley before serving alongside your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider substituting garlic with shallots or adding herbs like dill. - Lemon slices on top can enhance the freshness of the dish. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently in the oven.