The aroma of sizzling butter mixed with garlicky goodness wafts through your kitchen, promising a meal that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Picture this: tender salmon fillets glazed in a rich, buttery sauce infused with fragrant garlic—it’s not just dinner; it’s an experience that will leave you smiling from ear to ear.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen salmon for Butter Garlic Salmon?
- What sides pair well with Butter Garlic Salmon?
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I make butter garlic salmon, my family gathers around like moths to a flame. There’s something about the combination of flavors that brings everyone together. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for special guests. Trust me when I say—this is one recipe you’ll want to keep close to your heart!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This butter garlic salmon is incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors and vibrant colors create a visual feast on your plate.
- Pair it with veggies or rice for a versatile meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in!
I’ll never forget the first time I made this dish; my friend declared it “better than any restaurant!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is best; look for vibrant color and firm texture for optimal flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; it adds richness without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose medium-sized cloves; fresh garlic infuses the salmon with incredible flavor during cooking.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed provides brightness; it balances the richness of the butter beautifully.
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle adds freshness and color; use flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential; season according to taste to enhance all flavors in the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Space: Gather all ingredients and tools—trust me, you don’t want to be hunting for things mid-cooking! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you are.
Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat dry your salmon fillets with paper towels. This helps achieve that lovely golden crust we all crave! Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sauté the Garlic in Butter: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown but not burnt. Your kitchen should smell heavenly right now!
Add Lemon Juice & Parsley: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice along with chopped parsley. This gives the sauce a citrusy kick that elevates our salmon!
Cook the Salmon Fillets: Place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet (if using skin-on). Spoon some of that glorious garlic-butter sauce over each fillet! Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes depending on thickness—salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your delicious butter garlic salmon alongside steamed veggies or fluffy rice. Drizzle any leftover buttery goodness from your skillet over top. Watch as your family digs in!
You did it! You’ve just created a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite of your buttery creation!
You Must Know
- Marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Using fresh garlic instead of powdered gives a more vibrant taste.
- Don’t skip resting the fish after cooking; it allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy bites.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting butter in a hot skillet, then add garlic and sauté until fragrant before placing the salmon skin-side down to sear. This order ensures maximum flavor infusion and perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out butter for olive oil for a lighter variation or add herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic twist. Your creativity can turn this dish into something uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet on low heat to avoid drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a thermometer to check salmon doneness; aim for 145°F for perfect flakiness.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; it helps achieve that beautiful sear everyone loves.
- Always dry the fish thoroughly before cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
I remember making this butter garlic salmon for my parents’ anniversary dinner, and they were so impressed that they asked for the recipe on the spot!
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for Butter Garlic Salmon?
Yes, just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking for best results.
What sides pair well with Butter Garlic Salmon?
Roasted vegetables or rice pilaf enhance this dish beautifully.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute vegan butter or olive oil for traditional butter.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Butter Garlic Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this easy-to-make Butter Garlic Salmon, where tender fillets are bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 medium cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Spoon some garlic-butter sauce over each fillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve alongside steamed vegetables or rice, drizzling any remaining sauce on top.
Notes
- Marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes before cooking for enhanced flavor.
- Substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter option or add fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 364
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
