Irresistible Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe in 20 Minutes

The aroma of sizzling garlic butter wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug. Imagine tender salmon fillets glistening in a buttery embrace, infused with the rich notes of garlic and herbs. This garlic butter salmon recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves delicious seafood that’s quick to prepare.

Every time I whip up this dish, I’m reminded of family gatherings where we’d gather around the table, laughter echoing as we dug into this flavorful feast. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, nothing beats the anticipation of savoring perfectly cooked salmon that melts in your mouth.

My family always raves about this dish; they practically lick their plates clean every time I make it.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh, wild-caught salmon is ideal for the best flavor and texture.

• Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich, creamy sauce that enhances everything.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves add robust flavor; avoid pre-minced options if possible.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances richness.

• Fresh Herbs (like parsley or dill): These add freshness and color to your finished meal.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your salmon. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.

Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this helps achieve a crispy texture when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Create the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbling lightly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 1-2 minutes will do.

Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with your choice of chopped herbs. This adds brightness to the rich garlic butter mixture.

Coat the Salmon Fillets: Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet, ensuring they’re well coated for maximum flavor.

Bake Until Perfectly Flaky: Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The aroma will be simply irresistible!

This garlic butter salmon recipe brings together simplicity and sophistication in one delightful dish. Whether you’re serving it alongside fluffy rice or crisp vegetables, it’s bound to impress everyone at your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the salmon skin-side down for crispy texture, then baste with garlic butter while cooking. This ensures an even cook and maximizes flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the garlic for shallots or add herbs like dill for a fresher twist. Lemon zest can also brighten the dish beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan on low heat to preserve moisture.

Sometimes I think my secret ingredient is simply sharing this dish with friends—it turns any gathering into a celebration filled with laughter and satisfied bellies.

FAQ

Can I use frozen salmon for this garlic butter salmon recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for best results.

What side dishes pair well with garlic butter salmon?

Rice pilaf or steamed vegetables complement this dish wonderfully, adding freshness and texture.

How do I know when my salmon is cooked?

Look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork; an instant-read thermometer should read 125°F.

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Garlic Butter Salmon

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Garlic Butter Salmon is a quick and delicious seafood dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe results in tender, flaky salmon fillets that are sure to impress. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a full culinary experience that delights the senses.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbling; add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat; stir in lemon juice and herbs.
5. Place salmon in a baking dish; pour the garlic butter mixture over the fillets.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
• Calories: 367
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 122 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: - For crispy skin, sear the salmon skin-side down in a pan before baking. - Feel free to substitute garlic with shallots or add lemon zest for extra brightness. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days; reheat gently in a pan.