Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together the rich flavors of salmon, garlic, and lemon. It’s not only tasty but also healthy, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The recipe is simple enough for beginners, and the combination of garlic and lemon adds a bright, fresh taste that complements the salmon beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 6-8 ounce salmon fillets (skin on or off)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice plus lemon slices for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground or to taste)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the salmon fillets in a baking dish and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
- Add lemon slices on top of the salmon for additional flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with additional parsley if desired and serve.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
Serve Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon with your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. This dish can also be served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
How to Store Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
If you have leftovers, store your cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating too long to keep the salmon from becoming dry.
Tips to Make Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
- Make sure the butter is softened to easily mix with the other ingredients.
- You can add more or less garlic depending on your taste.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
- Ensure the salmon is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Variation
You can also try making this recipe with different herbs, such as dill or thyme, for a new twist. Using salmon with skin on can add extra flavor and moisture when baking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
What can I substitute for the butter?
Olive oil can be a good substitute for butter if you prefer a lighter option.
Can I grill salmon instead of baking it?
Absolutely! You can grill the salmon instead of baking it. Just brush the garlic butter mixture over the fillets and grill until cooked through.
