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!
