Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a succulent fish dish that’s bursting with flavor. Tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection and brushed with a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh lemon juice, creating a tantalizing, zesty glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and is sure to impress your guests.
The Perfect Salmon Dish
Salmon is not only a delicious choice for dinner but also packed with essential nutrients. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it's known for promoting heart health and brain function. This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon elevates the natural flavors of this fish, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Cooking salmon to perfection requires attention to detail. The key is to start with high-quality fillets and get the sear just right. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to keep the fish moist and tender. Pairing it with a buttery sauce and a hint of citrus adds depth and zest that makes every bite irresistible.
Meal Pairings
This flavorful salmon dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, complement the rich flavors of the garlic butter sauce while adding a healthy crunch.
For a lighter option, consider serving this dish over a fresh garden salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette will enhance the zesty notes of the salmon while keeping your meal light and refreshing.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to customize the garlic butter sauce to suit your taste. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give the dish a delightful kick, while incorporating different herbs such as dill or thyme can introduce exciting flavor variations. Experimenting with your favorite spices can make this recipe uniquely yours.
If you're looking to reduce calories, you can substitute the butter with a healthier oil alternative, like olive oil or avocado oil. This will impart a distinct flavor while still keeping the dish delicious. Enjoy being creative with the recipe while maintaining its essence.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Combine these ingredients to achieve a flavorful dish.
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the minced garlic and lemon juice.
Combine and Serve
Flip the salmon, brush with the garlic butter sauce, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the salmon in a skillet over low heat until warmed through to retain its moistness, or you can use a microwave for convenience.
For those wanting to prepare ahead, you can make the garlic butter sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving with your freshly cooked salmon.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is considered a superfood due to its high nutrient content. Not only does it offer an abundance of protein, but it also provides vital vitamins and minerals like B12, vitamin D, and selenium. Regularly incorporating salmon into your diet may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
In addition to being healthy, salmon is versatile. It adapts well to different seasoning and cooking methods, ensuring you never tire of its delightful flavor profile. Include this garlic butter lemon version in your meal planning for an easy weeknight treat or special occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad pair well.
Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a succulent fish dish that’s bursting with flavor. Tender salmon fillets are seared to perfection and brushed with a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh lemon juice, creating a tantalizing, zesty glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How-To Steps
Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the minced garlic and lemon juice.
Flip the salmon, brush with the garlic butter sauce, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 3g