Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Name: Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon whenever I'm craving a quick yet indulgent meal. The combination of fresh lemon juice and garlic creates a mouthwatering flavor that elevates the salmon to a whole new level. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests on special occasions. Pair it with some veggies or rice, and you've got a complete meal that's both healthy and delicious. Trust me, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:54:28.364Z

Cooking Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon is one of my favorite culinary adventures, and it always surprises my family with its bold flavors. I started experimenting with this dish a while back, realizing that the key lies in properly cooking the salmon, so it stays tender and juicy. By searing it in a hot pan before adding the garlic and lemon butter, the flavors meld beautifully.

I've learned that using fresh ingredients, especially organic lemons, makes a noticeable difference in taste. For the best results, always melt the butter gently and not let it burn, as you want to keep its flavor intact. This ensures that every bite is rich and flavorful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, buttery flavors complemented by zesty lemon
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Healthy and satisfying meal that's great for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon, the freshness of your ingredients can significantly affect the dish’s flavor and overall quality. Choosing high-quality salmon fillets is essential; I recommend looking for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to have a richer flavor and better texture than farmed salmon. Additionally, using fresh garlic rather than pre-minced varieties will impart a more vibrant taste to your garlic butter sauce. Fresh lemon juice is crucial too; it brightens the dish and helps balance the richness of the butter.

Don’t overlook the quality of your butter either. Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning of your dish better, while also providing a creamy, rich texture that enhances the salmon. You might consider using European-style butter for a stronger flavor. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before cooking for the best results.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The cooking technique for this recipe is relatively straightforward, yet it’s crucial to get it right for perfectly cooked salmon. Searing the salmon skin-side down first not only helps achieve a crispy texture but also allows the fat from the skin to render out, enhancing the overall taste. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon; you should hear a sizzle when it touches the pan. If your salmon is sticking, it’s a sign you need to wait longer before flipping.

After adding the garlic and butter, keep an eye on the garlic as it can burn quickly. Stir the garlic gently with the butter, allowing it to infuse the sauce without turning bitter. As for cooking times, salmon typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Look for the flesh to be opaque and flake easily with a fork for doneness.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

4 salmon fillets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Combine all the ingredients to create a flavorful dish.

Steps

Prepare the salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

Sear the salmon

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

Make the garlic butter sauce

After flipping the salmon, add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the pan. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the salmon and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot with any sides of your choice.

Enjoy your delicious garlic butter lemon salmon!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the butter sauce while cooking the garlic.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it atop a bed of freshly cooked quinoa or alongside steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice. A light salad with arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed with a vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the buttery salmon.

For a comforting touch, you could serve the salmon with garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf. If you’re feeling adventurous, a citrus salsa made with diced mango and avocado can add an exciting twist. The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the savory salmon, creating a delightful balance.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store your Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed within 2-3 days to ensure optimal freshness. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out the salmon. A drizzle of olive oil can help retain moisture and flavor while warming it up.

You can also freeze the cooked salmon if you need to store it longer. Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently in the skillet or microwave. This way, you can enjoy this dish again without losing its delicious taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely first for even cooking.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?

Yes, using olive oil will still provide a great flavor but will be a bit lighter.