Name: Delicious Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each, skinless or skin-on); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic (finely minced); 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (1 tbsp dry white wine)

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Hey, food lovers! Ready for a dinner that’s quick, healthy, and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant? This Delicious Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is your new best friend. Picture juicy salmon fillets coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with a zesty lemon kick—ready in just 20 minutes!

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or whenever you’re craving something special without the hassle. With simple ingredients you probably already have, this dish is a total game-changer. Let’s dive into the easy steps, toss in some pro tips, and answer your top questions. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this tonight!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon

You don’t need much to make this salmon shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salmon fillets: 4 pieces, about 6 ounces each, skin-on or skinless, for tender, flaky results.
Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted, for that rich, velvety sauce.
Fresh garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for bold flavor. Pre-minced garlic works in a pinch.
Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons for a bright, zesty touch, like honey’s sweetness in other dishes.
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for searing or coating the pan.
Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
Pepper: ½ teaspoon for a subtle kick.
Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped, for a vibrant garnish.
Sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon, optional garnish for a nutty crunch.
Italian seasoning: ½ teaspoon for a hint of herby warmth, like oregano in other recipes.

These ingredients are as easy to grab as soy sauce or ketchup. Keep them stocked, and you’re ready to cook!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This salmon recipe is a breeze to make, whether you bake or pan-sear. Here’s how to do it:

Preheat your oven to 375°F if baking, or skip this for pan-searing.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Get that flavor locked in!
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon parsley. This is your garlic butter sauce.
For Baking: Place salmon in a greased baking dish. Spoon half the garlic butter sauce over the fillets to coat. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature hits 145°F. Spoon the remaining sauce over the salmon halfway through baking.
For Pan-Searing: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon, skin-side down if applicable, and sear for 3-4 minutes. Flip, pour in the garlic butter sauce, and cook for 2-3 more minutes until 145°F.
Check the internal temperature with an internal thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Let the salmon rest for 3 minutes to keep it juicy.
Garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds for a pretty finish.
Serve hot and enjoy the amazing taste!

It’s as simple as mixing a sauce or pouring a glaze. You’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal in no time!

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Garlic Butter Salmon

Want your Garlic Butter Salmon to be flaky, juicy, and full of flavor? These tips have you covered:

Choose Fresh Salmon: Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy smell. Frozen is fine, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Don’t Overcook: Overcooking makes salmon dry. Stop at 145°F with an internal thermometer. No thermometer? Check for flakiness with a fork.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley boost flavor, like natural honey adds sweetness in other dishes.
Baste for Flavor: Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the salmon during cooking, like basting a sauce halfway through.
Make It Pop: Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh parsley for visual appeal and extra taste.

These tricks are like tweaking saltiness with low-sodium soy sauce—easy steps, big payoff!

Customizing Your Salmon Recipe

This salmon recipe is super flexible. Here’s how to make it your own:

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce for a fiery kick, like a spicy sauce.
Go Herby: Swap Italian seasoning for dill or thyme for a fresh flavor, like parsley tweaks.
Add Sweetness: Mix a teaspoon of honey into the garlic butter for a sweet-savory twist.
Try a Crust: Coat with Panko and Parmesan before baking for a crispy texture, like other recipes.
Mix in Veggies: Add asparagus or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

These ideas keep things exciting, like adding ketchup to a dish. What twist will you try?

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

Make your salmon a full meal with these tasty sides that pair perfectly with the garlic butter sauce:

Rice: Jasmine or wild rice soaks up the sauce, like a thick glaze.
Roasted Veggies: Zucchini, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add crunch and color. Toss with olive oil and Italian seasoning.
Salad: A fresh salad with sesame seed oil dressing ties in the sesame seeds garnish. Add cucumber for brightness.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the rich salmon for ultimate comfort.

Prep sides while the salmon cooks to save time. What’s your go-to combo?

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Got extra salmon? Keep it delicious with these tips:

Store: Place salmon in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 2-3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date.
Reheat: Warm gently in a 275°F oven for 10-12 minutes with a splash of broth to keep juicy. Microwave in 20-second bursts, but avoid overcooking.

Leftovers are great for salads or wraps, like a sauce-covered dish. Meal prep made easy!

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FAQs about Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

How long does it take to cook salmon at 375°F?

About 12-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

What temperature should salmon be cooked to?

145°F ensures flaky, safe salmon.

Can I pan-sear salmon instead of baking?

Yes! Sear 3-4 minutes per side over medium-high heat until 145°F.

How do I keep salmon from drying out?

Don’t overcook, use plenty of garlic butter sauce, and rest for 3 minutes.

What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?

Olive oil or ghee works, but the sauce may be less rich.

Why This Recipe Works

This Delicious Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe is a winner because it’s fast, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The garlic butter sauce, with fresh garlic and lemon juice, coats the salmon like a creamy thick sauce, locking in moisture. Cooking at 375°F or searing ensures a tender, flaky texture without drying out. It’s packed with omega-3s, low-carb, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you garnish with sesame seeds or keep it simple, it’s always a hit, like a honey or ketchup-based dish—easy and loved by all!

Conclusion

Alright, you’re ready to make this Delicious Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe! With salmon fillets, fresh garlic, and a dreamy butter sauce, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful dinner in just 20 minutes. Check 145°F with an internal thermometer, garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds, and serve hot for a meal that impresses. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you want something fancy without the work. So, preheat your oven or heat your skillet, and give it a go tonight and make this yummy Garlic Butter Salmon. What sides are you pairing with it? Let’s get cooking!

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