Let me tell you, this salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce recipe is one of my all-time favorites! It’s so incredibly simple, yet bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a last-minute decision for a dinner party, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! The rich buttery sauce, brightened by the tangy lemon and aromatic garlic, elevates the salmon to a whole new level of deliciousness. Plus, it cooks up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the fuss. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Ingredients for Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Getting this salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking; I promise it’s all straightforward and so rewarding!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, season your salmon fillets with a sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning gives a great base flavor.
- Now, grab your trusty skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. You want it to be bubbly but not browned, so keep an eye on it!
- Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Wow, the smell is incredible!
- Next, pour in the fresh lemon juice. Stir it all together; this is where the magic happens!
- Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets into the skillet. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side. If your fillets are thicker, you might need to add a minute or two to ensure they cook through.
- Once they’re done, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for that pop of color and flavor!
And there you have it! A delicious salmon dish that’s sure to impress. Just remember, the cooking time can vary based on how thick your fillets are, so keep checking for that perfect doneness. Enjoy the process—it’s as delightful as the meal itself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, buttery flavor balanced with zesty lemon and garlic.
- Simple ingredients that you probably have on hand.
- Healthy and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free meal.
- Elegant enough to impress guests, yet easy enough for any home cook.
Tips for Success
To really nail this salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce, here are my top tips! Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon; it helps get that perfect sear. Don’t rush the garlic—burnt garlic is a no-go, so sauté until just fragrant. And for an extra touch, try serving the salmon over a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside roasted veggies. It’s a beautiful presentation and adds great flavor!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: the nutritional values for this salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce recipe can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to provide helpful information, precise nutritional details aren’t included here. If you’re tracking calories or macros, I recommend checking the labels of your ingredients. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious dish without too much worry about the numbers!
FAQ About Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
How long should I cook the salmon?
Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your fillets, but generally, you’ll want to cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. If your fillets are thicker, add an extra minute or two. Just make sure they flake easily with a fork when done!
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. I find it best to leave them in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a pinch, you can run them under cold water for a quicker thaw.
What can I serve with this salmon dish?
This salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I love serving it with steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or even a light salad. It’s all about finding the perfect complement to that rich, buttery sauce!
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
While I recommend making the sauce fresh for the best flavor, you can prep the garlic and lemon juice ahead of time. Just combine them with the butter when you’re ready to cook the salmon. Trust me, the fresh taste is worth it!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. Just store the cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to overcook it again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce, the options are endless! I love pairing it with a side of roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. You could also serve it on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious sauce. And don’t forget a simple green salad—something light to balance the rich flavors of the salmon. Enjoy the delightful combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of this salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce, you’re in for a treat! Store the cooled salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep the sauce separate if you can; it helps maintain that delicious flavor!
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the salmon either in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the microwave, do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking. On the stovetop, just warm it up on low heat until it’s heated through. Remember, the goal is to keep it juicy and flavorful—nobody wants dry salmon!
Learn more about coconut curry salmon with garlic butter for a delicious twist on this classic dish!
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Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe for 20-Minute Joy
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple recipe for salmon topped with garlic lemon butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the lemon juice and stir.
- Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
- Serve with vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: salmon, garlic, lemon, butter, recipe