Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe Fresh and Tasty

Are you ready to impress your dinner guests or treat yourself to a delicious meal? This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is fresh, tasty, and easy to make. With only a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that is rich in flavor and perfectly cooked. Join me as I walk you through each step to make your salmon shine on the plate. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- Zest of 1 lemon

- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Lemon wedges for serving

To make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, you need fresh salmon fillets. I suggest using wild-caught salmon for the best flavor. The unsalted butter adds richness, while fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma. You'll also use lemon zest and juice for that bright, tangy kick. Don’t forget the parsley; it adds color and freshness. Finally, keep salt and pepper handy to enhance the flavors. Lemon wedges on the side make a perfect serving touch.

This dish is simple but full of flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating a delicious meal. Remember, fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the best temperature for cooking salmon evenly. Preheating the oven helps the salmon cook through without drying out. It also ensures that your dish has a nice, golden finish.

Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter. Next, add the zest of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Stir well to combine. Finally, season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will give the salmon a rich, tangy flavor.

Bake the Salmon

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easier. Place 4 salmon fillets, skin-side down, on the baking sheet. Generously brush each fillet with the garlic butter mixture. Reserve some of the mixture for drizzling later. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork. For a golden top, switch the oven to broil in the last couple of minutes. Watch the salmon closely to avoid burning. Once done, drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top. This adds extra flavor and shine to your dish.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Salmon

- How to tell when salmon is cooked: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should turn from bright pink to a more opaque color. You can also check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.

- Using a broiler for added color: For a nice golden crust, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to prevent burning. The broiler adds a great finish and enhances the flavor.

Enhancing Flavor

- Suggestions for additional herbs: You can add fresh dill or thyme for a twist. These herbs pair well with the lemon and garlic. Experiment to find your favorite mix. Just a sprinkle can change the whole dish.

- Adjusting garlic intensity: If you love garlic, add more cloves. If you prefer a milder taste, use fewer cloves. You can also roast the garlic first for a sweeter flavor. This gives you options to suit your palate.

Presentation Ideas

- Plating suggestions: Serve the salmon on a bed of greens or alongside roasted veggies. A clean plate enhances the dish's appeal. Arrange it neatly to impress your guests.

- Garnishing with lemon and parsley: Add fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley on top. This adds color and freshness. It also invites your guests to squeeze the lemon for extra zest.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients

You can swap the salmon for other fish. Try using trout, cod, or halibut. Each brings a unique taste. They also pair well with lemon and garlic. If you want a lighter option, choose tilapia.

Instead of butter, you can use olive oil. It gives a different flavor while keeping it healthy. Olive oil works great with garlic and lemon. Just use the same amount as butter.

Cooking Methods

You can cook your salmon in different ways. Pan-searing gives a crispy skin. It cooks quickly and adds flavor. Just heat oil in a pan, add the salmon skin-side down, and cook for about 6-7 minutes.

Baking is also a great choice. It keeps the salmon moist. Just follow the recipe's baking steps. You can also grill the salmon for a smoky taste. Just place it on a hot grill for about 4-5 minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your lemon garlic butter salmon with tasty sides. Roasted vegetables work well. Try asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. A fresh green salad is another excellent choice.

You can change sides with the seasons. In summer, serve with corn salad or cucumber. In winter, consider mashed potatoes or warm quinoa. Both enhance the flavors of the salmon.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Salmon

Store your leftover salmon in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe. The fridge should be set to 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C). Eat the salmon within three days for the best taste. If you wait too long, it may lose flavor and texture.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze salmon, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag or container. Press out as much air as you can. This prevents freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to three months. For thawing, move the salmon to the fridge overnight. You can also thaw it in cold water for about an hour.

Reheating Tips

When reheating salmon, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the salmon on a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the fish moist and tasty. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Enjoy your meal just like it was freshly cooked!

FAQs

How long to bake salmon at 400°F?

Bake salmon at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily. The thickness of the fillets can change cooking time. Thicker pieces may need a bit longer, while thinner fillets cook faster. Always check doneness with a fork for the best results.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. First, thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can run it under cold water for about 30 minutes. After thawing, follow the recipe as usual. This way, you still get tasty Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon.

What to serve with Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?

Pair this salmon with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. They add color and crunch to your meal. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a filling side. As for drinks, a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon.

In this post, we covered how to make delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon. We listed key ingredients and walked you through each step. You learned tips for cooking and enhancing flavors. We discussed variations and storage methods for your salmon.

In my view, this recipe is simple yet tasty. It’s great for both new cooks and seasoned chefs. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and impress your guest