Name: Garlic Butter Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 4 fresh salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 4 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

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The moment you take a bite of this garlic butter salmon, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Flaky, juicy, and bursting with bold savory flavor, this dish is the perfect marriage of rich buttery goodness and zesty garlic that will have you coming back for seconds.

I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their eyes widened in delight as they took their first bites. It was a weeknight dinner transformed into a gourmet feast, and I felt like a culinary superhero. Ideal for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day, this garlic butter salmon recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This garlic butter salmon requires minimal prep time but delivers maximum flavor impact
The visual appeal of golden-brown fillets will wow your dinner guests
It’s versatile enough to serve with various sides or salads, making it perfect for any occasion
Plus, it’s healthy without sacrificing taste!

My friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this salmon turned out when I served it at our last dinner party.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for vibrant pink color and firm texture; wild-caught is often the best choice.
Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for rich flavor; it’s the star ingredient in this dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that punchy flavor; minced finely for best results.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; don’t skimp on this!
Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; use flat-leaf or curly as preferred.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor; adjust to your taste.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your salmon cooks evenly and achieves that lovely golden crust.

Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This keeps your salmon from sticking while allowing those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.

Create the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and let it simmer until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes—to infuse the butter with that savory goodness.

Add Lemon Juice & Seasonings: Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, and pepper into your garlic butter mixture. The tanginess will elevate the flavors while balancing out the richness of the butter.

Place Salmon in Baking Dish: Arrange your fresh salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlicky butter sauce generously over each fillet—this is where all the magic happens!

Bake Until Perfectly Cooked: Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it; you want it tender but not dry!

Enjoying this garlic butter salmon is not just about eating; it’s about savoring every flaky bite infused with bold savory flavor that leaves you craving more! Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Happy cooking!

You Must Know

This garlic butter salmon recipe is a crowd-pleaser, delivering a burst of savory flavor
Pair it with fresh veggies or rice for a complete meal
The aromas will have everyone drooling before it even hits the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the salmon skin-side down first for a crispy texture, then baste with garlic butter and finish cooking in the oven for juicy, tender results.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the garlic for shallots or add herbs like dill or thyme to personalize your flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover garlic butter salmon, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep it flaky and moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always start with high-quality salmon; it makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture
Patting the fish dry ensures crispiness
Don’t skip the resting period after cooking; it helps redistribute juices for maximum juiciness

Cooking garlic butter salmon takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and we savored every delicious bite together.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Wild-caught salmon varieties like sockeye or king provide superior flavor and texture.

Can I use frozen salmon instead?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.