![- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, approximately 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients makes this recipe shine. Salmon fillets are the star. They are rich in flavor and healthy fats. Unsalted butter adds creaminess and depth. Garlic gives a strong, savory punch. Lemon juice and zest bring brightness. They balance the richness of the butter and salmon. Dried thyme and smoked paprika add warmth and complexity. These ingredients turn a simple dish into something special. For seasoning, use sea salt and black pepper. They enhance all the other flavors. Fresh parsley makes a beautiful garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. This recipe is not just tasty. It is also quick. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes. For the full recipe, check the details provided above. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps cook the salmon quickly. 2. Line a medium-sized baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking. 1. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. 2. Once the butter is melted, add 4 finely minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir often to avoid browning the garlic. It should smell great, but not burn. 3. Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the zest of 1 lemon. 4. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors. 1. Arrange 4 salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin. 2. Using a brush, coat each fillet generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture. Save some for drizzling later. 3. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. Cooking time may change based on fillet thickness. 4. After baking, drizzle the reserved lemon garlic butter over the salmon. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavor. 5. For a pretty finish, garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve with lemon slices. Squeezing the lemon adds a nice zing! For the full recipe, check out the detailed guide. The cook time for salmon can change based on a few things. - Thickness: Thicker fillets take longer to cook. - Temperature: The oven's heat level affects the time. - Freshness: Fresh salmon cooks differently than frozen. To test if your salmon is done, gently poke it with a fork. If it flakes easily, it's ready. If it’s still tough, give it a few more minutes. If you have leftover salmon, store it properly to keep it fresh. - Storage method: Place salmon in an airtight container. - Refrigeration: It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. When you're ready to eat it again, reheat it gently. Use the oven or a skillet. Avoid the microwave, as it can dry out the fish. You can boost the flavor of your salmon with some extras. - Herbs and spices: Try dill, basil, or red pepper flakes for a kick. - Pairing suggestions: Enjoy it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also squeeze some lemon juice on top for a zesty touch. This way, you can make your lemon garlic butter salmon even more delicious! For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can swap salmon for other fish. Try trout, cod, or tilapia. Each has its taste and texture. Adjust cooking times based on thickness. Thinner fish may cook faster, so watch closely. Aim for that flakiness we love in salmon. Pair your fish with sides that shine. Roasted veggies add color and crunch. Think asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. They bring out the lemon flavor too. For a fresh twist, serve with a salad. A simple green salad works well. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for freshness. Feel free to get creative with the sauce! Add capers for a briny kick. A splash of soy sauce can give it an Asian flair. If you want creaminess, mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. The options are endless! Each serving of lemon garlic butter salmon has about 350 calories. It has a good mix of protein, fat, and carbs. Here’s the breakdown: - Calories: 350 - Protein: 34g - Fat: 22g - Carbohydrates: 2g Salmon is packed with vitamins and minerals. It has vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help your body work well and stay healthy. Salmon is a star in this dish. Here’s why: - Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fats help your heart and brain. - Protein: Salmon gives you strong muscles and energy. Garlic and lemon also shine in this recipe: - Garlic: It may lower blood pressure and boost your immunity. - Lemon: This fruit is high in vitamin C, which helps your skin and boosts your immune system. This dish is perfect for many diets. It is low-carb and gluten-free. - Low-Carb: With only 2g of carbs, it works well for keto diets. - Gluten-Free: There are no gluten ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten allergies. You can enjoy lemon garlic butter salmon whether you’re on a special diet or just want a healthy meal. You can tell if salmon is cooked by looking at its color and texture. Cooked salmon turns from bright pink to a pale, opaque color. It should also flake easily when you poke it with a fork. If it breaks apart easily, it is ready to eat. Always check the thickest part of the fillet for doneness. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the salmon and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps the salmon moist and tasty. If you want a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or coconut oil. These oils add good flavor and keep the dish rich. For a vegan choice, try using vegan butter. Each option will change the taste slightly, but they work well. Serve the salmon on a nice plate for a pretty look. You can add fresh parsley on top for color. Lemon slices on the side brighten the dish and add flavor. Pair it with green veggies or rice for a complete meal that looks great. For the full recipe and more details, check out the [Full Recipe]. In this article, we explored how to make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon from start to finish. We covered key ingredients like salmon fillets, butter, and garlic, plus flavor enhancers such as lemon juice and thyme. You learned step-by-step how to prepare, cook, and store your dish. With tips on variations and health benefits, you can personalize your meal. Don't shy away from adding your twist. Enjoy the cooking process and savor the results. Your culinary skills will shine with this easy recipe!](https://spoonfulsavory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1575a6f7-4075-4669-ad10-965952a9e04d-768x768.webp)
Looking for a fast and tasty meal? Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is your go-to dish! This recipe is simple, packed with flavor, and brings a healthy twist to your table. With just a few key ingredients, you can whip up a scrumptious dinner in no time. Let’s dive into the easy steps that will make your salmon shine, and discover tips to enhance its deliciousness!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, approximately 6 oz each)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
Flavor Enhancers
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Seasoning
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Gathering the right ingredients makes this recipe shine. Salmon fillets are the star. They are rich in flavor and healthy fats. Unsalted butter adds creaminess and depth. Garlic gives a strong, savory punch.
Lemon juice and zest bring brightness. They balance the richness of the butter and salmon. Dried thyme and smoked paprika add warmth and complexity. These ingredients turn a simple dish into something special.
For seasoning, use sea salt and black pepper. They enhance all the other flavors. Fresh parsley makes a beautiful garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness.
This recipe is not just tasty. It is also quick. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps cook the salmon quickly.
2. Line a medium-sized baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking.
Making the Lemon Garlic Butter
1. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, add 4 finely minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir often to avoid browning the garlic. It should smell great, but not burn.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the zest of 1 lemon.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Baking the Salmon
1. Arrange 4 salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin.
2. Using a brush, coat each fillet generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture. Save some for drizzling later.
3. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. Cooking time may change based on fillet thickness.
4. After baking, drizzle the reserved lemon garlic butter over the salmon. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavor.
5. For a pretty finish, garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve with lemon slices. Squeezing the lemon adds a nice zing!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Salmon Cook Time
The cook time for salmon can change based on a few things.
– Thickness: Thicker fillets take longer to cook.
– Temperature: The oven’s heat level affects the time.
– Freshness: Fresh salmon cooks differently than frozen.
To test if your salmon is done, gently poke it with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s ready. If it’s still tough, give it a few more minutes.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover salmon, store it properly to keep it fresh.
– Storage method: Place salmon in an airtight container.
– Refrigeration: It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat it gently. Use the oven or a skillet. Avoid the microwave, as it can dry out the fish.
Enhancing Flavor
You can boost the flavor of your salmon with some extras.
– Herbs and spices: Try dill, basil, or red pepper flakes for a kick.
– Pairing suggestions: Enjoy it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also squeeze some lemon juice on top for a zesty touch.
This way, you can make your lemon garlic butter salmon even more delicious!
![- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, approximately 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients makes this recipe shine. Salmon fillets are the star. They are rich in flavor and healthy fats. Unsalted butter adds creaminess and depth. Garlic gives a strong, savory punch. Lemon juice and zest bring brightness. They balance the richness of the butter and salmon. Dried thyme and smoked paprika add warmth and complexity. These ingredients turn a simple dish into something special. For seasoning, use sea salt and black pepper. They enhance all the other flavors. Fresh parsley makes a beautiful garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. This recipe is not just tasty. It is also quick. You can whip it up in just 25 minutes. For the full recipe, check the details provided above. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps cook the salmon quickly. 2. Line a medium-sized baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking. 1. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. 2. Once the butter is melted, add 4 finely minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir often to avoid browning the garlic. It should smell great, but not burn. 3. Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the zest of 1 lemon. 4. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors. 1. Arrange 4 salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if they have skin. 2. Using a brush, coat each fillet generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture. Save some for drizzling later. 3. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. Cooking time may change based on fillet thickness. 4. After baking, drizzle the reserved lemon garlic butter over the salmon. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to enhance the flavor. 5. For a pretty finish, garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve with lemon slices. Squeezing the lemon adds a nice zing! For the full recipe, check out the detailed guide. The cook time for salmon can change based on a few things. - Thickness: Thicker fillets take longer to cook. - Temperature: The oven's heat level affects the time. - Freshness: Fresh salmon cooks differently than frozen. To test if your salmon is done, gently poke it with a fork. If it flakes easily, it's ready. If it’s still tough, give it a few more minutes. If you have leftover salmon, store it properly to keep it fresh. - Storage method: Place salmon in an airtight container. - Refrigeration: It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. When you're ready to eat it again, reheat it gently. Use the oven or a skillet. Avoid the microwave, as it can dry out the fish. You can boost the flavor of your salmon with some extras. - Herbs and spices: Try dill, basil, or red pepper flakes for a kick. - Pairing suggestions: Enjoy it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also squeeze some lemon juice on top for a zesty touch. This way, you can make your lemon garlic butter salmon even more delicious! For the complete recipe, check [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can swap salmon for other fish. Try trout, cod, or tilapia. Each has its taste and texture. Adjust cooking times based on thickness. Thinner fish may cook faster, so watch closely. Aim for that flakiness we love in salmon. Pair your fish with sides that shine. Roasted veggies add color and crunch. Think asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. They bring out the lemon flavor too. For a fresh twist, serve with a salad. A simple green salad works well. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for freshness. Feel free to get creative with the sauce! Add capers for a briny kick. A splash of soy sauce can give it an Asian flair. If you want creaminess, mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce. The options are endless! Each serving of lemon garlic butter salmon has about 350 calories. It has a good mix of protein, fat, and carbs. Here’s the breakdown: - Calories: 350 - Protein: 34g - Fat: 22g - Carbohydrates: 2g Salmon is packed with vitamins and minerals. It has vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help your body work well and stay healthy. Salmon is a star in this dish. Here’s why: - Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fats help your heart and brain. - Protein: Salmon gives you strong muscles and energy. Garlic and lemon also shine in this recipe: - Garlic: It may lower blood pressure and boost your immunity. - Lemon: This fruit is high in vitamin C, which helps your skin and boosts your immune system. This dish is perfect for many diets. It is low-carb and gluten-free. - Low-Carb: With only 2g of carbs, it works well for keto diets. - Gluten-Free: There are no gluten ingredients, making it safe for those with gluten allergies. You can enjoy lemon garlic butter salmon whether you’re on a special diet or just want a healthy meal. You can tell if salmon is cooked by looking at its color and texture. Cooked salmon turns from bright pink to a pale, opaque color. It should also flake easily when you poke it with a fork. If it breaks apart easily, it is ready to eat. Always check the thickest part of the fillet for doneness. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the salmon and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place the salmon on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps the salmon moist and tasty. If you want a dairy-free option, you can use olive oil or coconut oil. These oils add good flavor and keep the dish rich. For a vegan choice, try using vegan butter. Each option will change the taste slightly, but they work well. Serve the salmon on a nice plate for a pretty look. You can add fresh parsley on top for color. Lemon slices on the side brighten the dish and add flavor. Pair it with green veggies or rice for a complete meal that looks great. For the full recipe and more details, check out the [Full Recipe]. In this article, we explored how to make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon from start to finish. We covered key ingredients like salmon fillets, butter, and garlic, plus flavor enhancers such as lemon juice and thyme. You learned step-by-step how to prepare, cook, and store your dish. With tips on variations and health benefits, you can personalize your meal. Don't shy away from adding your twist. Enjoy the cooking process and savor the results. Your culinary skills will shine with this easy recipe!](https://spoonfulsavory.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1575a6f7-4075-4669-ad10-965952a9e04d-250x250.webp)
