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This Garlic Butter Salmon brings restaurant flavors right to your kitchen in less than twenty minutes. Each tender fillet is smothered in a silky garlic butter that seeps into every flaky bite. Whether you are making a quick weeknight meal or want to impress dinner guests, this recipe always delivers big taste with minimal effort.
I tried this recipe on a night I really needed something special but simple. The garlic butter melted into the salmon so beautifully that my family asked for seconds before I could sit down.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: choose fresh fillets with vibrant color and a mild ocean scent for best results
- Unsalted butter: brings creaminess and richness make sure it is high quality for flavor
- Fresh garlic: minced garlic delivers bold depth choose firm cloves without green shoots
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: brightens the dish and balances the richness select plump ripe lemons
- Fresh parsley: adds color and freshness use flat-leaf parsley for better flavor
- Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning always taste and adjust as needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels this helps them brown and prevents sticking then season each side all over with salt and pepper
- Make the Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl combine softened butter freshly minced garlic and lemon juice use a fork to mash and blend everything into a smooth paste
- Sear the Salmon:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat once hot carefully lay the salmon fillets skin-side down press gently to ensure good contact with the pan and let them cook undisturbed for about four minutes until the bottom turns golden brown
- Add Garlic Butter:
- Flip the fillets with a thin spatula being gentle so the salmon stays intact immediately spoon the garlic butter across the tops letting it melt all around continue cooking for another four minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork
- Finish and Garnish:
- Move the salmon to a plate and pour any extra pan juices on top then sprinkle with plenty of chopped fresh parsley right before serving for vivid color and flavor
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The parsley is the ingredient I look forward to most It lifts everything with a pop of green and springlike flavor We once paired this dish with a homemade lemon-herb risotto for a family birthday and it turned into an unforgettable meal
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers to room temperature before covering tightly and refrigerating You can enjoy the salmon chilled or gently reheated the next day Store for up to two days to keep the texture fresh
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh salmon frozen works as long as it is thawed and patted dry For a dairy free twist swap the butter with good quality olive oil and add a bit of grated lemon zest
Serving Suggestions
This salmon is lovely with crisp steamed green beans fluffy rice or even lightly dressed spring greens I love serving it with crusty bread to scoop up every drop of the garlicky pan sauce
Cultural and Historical Context
Salmon with butter and garlic echoes timeless European flavors while taking cues from classic French cuisine With today’s fresh ingredients it feels both traditional and modern and always crowd pleasing
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent salmon from drying out during cooking?
Cook salmon just until it flakes easily with a fork, and avoid overcooking. The garlic butter helps retain moisture and adds flavor.
- → Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, thaw frozen salmon completely before seasoning and cooking for even results and best texture.
- → Is this dish suitable for pan-searing or grilling?
Absolutely! Both skillet and grill methods work well. Pan-searing yields a golden crust, while grilling adds subtle smokiness.
- → What sides complement garlic butter salmon?
This preparation pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp green salad.
- → How can I infuse more flavor into the salmon?
Let the salmon marinate in the garlic butter mixture before cooking, and try adding herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes.