Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Butter Garlic Salmon is a delectable, flavorful dish that’s both rich and satisfying. The salmon fillets are perfectly seared and then smothered in a buttery garlic sauce that elevates every bite. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy and delicious seafood dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if using skin-on), and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden.
- Stir in the lemon juice, scraping any bits off the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for a minute.
- Return the cooked salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the top of each fillet. Let them cook together for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the salmon absorbs the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the garlic butter sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a cheesy twist.
- Try adding a handful of spinach or asparagus to the skillet for a complete one-pan meal.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Butter Garlic Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for the best results.
What should I serve with this dish? Butter Garlic Salmon pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe with other types of fish? Yes, you can substitute the salmon with other firm fish like trout, cod, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Can I make this recipe without lemon? Yes, if you don’t have lemon, you can substitute with a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a different but equally delicious tang.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Butter Garlic Salmon is a quick and easy way to bring a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal to your table. With its tender, flaky fish and rich, buttery sauce, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress!
PrintIrresistible Butter Garlic Salmon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Irresistible Butter Garlic Salmon is cooked to perfection, with a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, juicy inside. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the natural taste of the salmon. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
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4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Once the skillet is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them. This helps to create a crispy skin.
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Flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes.
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Return the salmon fillets to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over them. Let the salmon soak in the flavors for another 1-2 minutes.
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Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices, if desired.
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Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
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For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for some heat.
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Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
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If you prefer crispy skin, avoid flipping the salmon too early in the cooking process and allow the skin to crisp up.
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