Name: Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 19 min
Ingredients: 1.25 pounds salmon fillet; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons melted butter (or melted ghee); 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (to garnish); lemon slices (to garnish)

Introduction to Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering dish that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further than this garlic butter salmon recipe! Packed with flavor and requiring just a handful of ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when simplicity meets deliciousness.

Why Garlic Butter Salmon is the Perfect Weeknight Meal

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something satisfying yet easy to prepare. This recipe delivers just that! Ready in less than 30 minutes, the salmon is enveloped in a rich garlic-butter blend that accentuates its natural flavor without overwhelming it. Plus, it’s baked in a foil packet, which means minimal cleanup. You can even throw in your favorite veggies on the side, making it a complete and healthy meal.

Cooking fish not only impresses your dinner guests but can also be beneficial for your health. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for your brain and heart health. It’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy without the stress of hours spent in the kitchen. For more quick salmon recipes, check out sources like Healthline to help you incorporate more fish into your weekly routine.

Ready to make magic happen in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details of this savory garlic butter salmon recipe!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Essential ingredients for the garlic butter sauce

For the soul-warming garlic butter salmon recipe, the key lies in creating a rich and flavorful sauce. Here’s what you’ll need for that delightful mix:

2 tablespoons lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for a bright flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a pungent kick that complements the salmon beautifully.
3 tablespoons melted butter (or ghee): This is where the magic happens—melted butter creates a luscious base for your sauce.
½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
¼ teaspoon dried oregano and crushed red pepper: These spices add a touch of warmth and depth.

Feel free to explore spice variations to elevate your experience!

The star of the show: salmon fillet

When making this dish, the salmon fillet truly shines. We recommend using a 1¼ pounds salmon fillet, ideally wild-caught for the freshest taste. Salmon offers a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the garlic butter sauce.

Looking for tips on selecting the best salmon? Check out resources like Seafood Watch for sustainable choices, ensuring your meal is not just delicious but also environmentally friendly!

Embarking on this culinary journey will make weeknight dinners feel special—grab those ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Preparing Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Creating your garlic butter salmon recipe is not only easy but also an enjoyable process! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you whip up this delicious dish effortlessly.

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, let's get organized! You’ll need the following ingredients:

1¼ pounds salmon fillet: Fresh is best! Look for wild-caught salmon if you can.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: This adds a fresh zing.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the star of this recipe.
3 tablespoons melted butter or ghee: For a nutty flavor.
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper: For a hint of heat.
1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish
Lemon slices, for garnish

Take a moment to wash and chop your ingredients. There’s something satisfying about having everything prepped and ready to go!

Whisk together the garlic butter sauce

This step is simple and rewarding. In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, and melted butter or ghee. Use a whisk to blend them well. It’s the sauce that elevates your* garlic butter salmon recipe* to a new level. The aromatic garlic paired with rich butter creates a perfect marinade for the salmon.

Season the salmon and arrange in foil

Once your salmon is ready on a lined baking sheet, pour that delicious garlic butter sauce over it, letting it soak in all the flavors. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. These spices not only complement the salmon but also enhance the overall taste.

Now, take a large piece of aluminum foil and place the seasoned salmon in the center. Fold the foil over the fish, sealing it tightly but not too snugly to allow steam to circulate.

Seal the foil and bake

Preheat your oven to 400ºF, and carefully place the foil packet on the baking sheet. Bake your salmon for about 12-16 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillet. Salmon is perfectly cooked when it’s flaky and opaque, so keep an eye on it!

Broil for that perfect finish

After baking, it’s time for a little treat for your taste buds. Open the foil and transition to the broiler for an extra 2-3 minutes. This step helps achieve that golden brown finish on top, with a slight crispiness that makes it utterly irresistible. Just remember to keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn!

Once done, drizzle any remaining sauce over your salmon, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Enjoy your flavorful, decadent garlic butter salmon recipe! For more delicious salmon ideas, explore sites like Seafood Nutrition for additional inspiration.

Happy cooking! Your taste buds will thank you!

Variations on Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

When you love a dish, it's fun to play around with different flavors. Try these variations on the classic garlic butter salmon recipe!

Lemon Herb Garlic Butter Salmon

Brighten up your salmon with a refreshing twist! Add the zest of one lemon and a handful of fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the garlic butter mixture. This provides a zesty aroma that complements the richness of the salmon, making each bite a delightful experience.

Spicy Garlic Ginger Salmon

For those who crave a spicy kick, mix minced ginger and a dash of sriracha into your garlic butter. The combination of garlic and ginger will infuse your salmon with a lively punch of flavor. It’s a fantastic way to liven up your weeknight dinner while keeping it simple and delicious!

Explore more options and techniques by visiting Serious Eats and Bon Appétit for inspiration.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Tips for Getting the Cooking Time Right

To perfect your garlic butter salmon recipe, ensure you factor in the thickness of your salmon fillet. A general rule is to bake it for about 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness. Remember to check for doneness: the fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest part should read 145°F for safe consumption.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can; it can dry out your succulent salmon! Enjoy your meal again with that freshly baked flavor.

Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Ideal side dishes to complement the salmon

Pair your garlic butter salmon recipe with sides that enhance its delicious flavors. Consider:

Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a crunchy contrast.
Quinoa or rice: These options soak up the garlic butter, making each bite even tastier.
Creamy mashed potatoes: A comforting choice that balances the richness of the salmon.

Creative garnishing ideas

Elevate your presentation with these simple garnishing ideas:

Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped dill or chives for a dash of color.
Citrus zest: Add lemon or lime zest for a zesty kick that brightens your dish.
Seed sprinkle: Toasted sesame or sunflower seeds introduce texture and flavor.

Each of these suggestions can turn your dish into a stunning masterpiece that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. For more inspiration, check out these side dish ideas that complement salmon beautifully!

Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Preparation Time

In just 5 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to start cooking your delicious garlic butter salmon recipe. Gather your ingredients, mix the garlic butter sauce, and get the salmon ready for its flavorful journey.

Cooking Time

Once you've wrapped the salmon in foil, it only takes about 16 minutes in the oven. This quick cooking time ensures that your salmon remains juicy and tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Total Time

From prep to plate, you're looking at a total of 19 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive! Now, who wouldn’t love a gourmet meal in under 20 minutes?

For more quick and easy seafood recipes, check out Seafood Nutrition Partnership.

Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Calories

Enjoy a satisfying serving of garlic butter salmon for just 250 calories. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while still relishing delicious flavors.

Protein

Each serving is packed with 29.6 grams of protein, making it a great choice for those seeking to increase their protein intake while indulging in a rich, flavorful meal. Salmon is not only tasty but also a fantastic source of essential amino acids.

Fat Content

The garlic butter salmon recipe contains 18.1 grams of fat, primarily from the buttery sauce and the fish itself. Though high in fat, the majority are healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

For a detailed breakdown of healthy fats and their benefits, check out this informative article on Healthline. Remember, it’s always wise to enjoy even delicious meals in moderation!

FAQs about Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen salmon is a great option if you're short on fresh fish. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the fish from becoming rubbery. If you're in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen, but you may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes.

What can I substitute for butter in the recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily substitute melted ghee or olive oil in your garlic butter salmon recipe. Both options will impart a lovely flavor while keeping the salmon moist. Additionally, for a light, healthy twist, try avocado oil or coconut oil.

How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?
A foolproof way to check if your salmon is cooked is to use an instant-read thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for perfectly cooked salmon is 145ºF. Alternatively, you can gently flake the fish with a fork; if it flakes easily and is opaque in the center, it’s ready to enjoy!

For more tips, check out resources from the USDA on safe cooking temperatures.

Conclusion on Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

In conclusion, this garlic butter salmon recipe is a delightful and easy way to elevate your dinner routine. With minimal ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll enjoy a healthy, flavorful dish that impresses everyone at the table. Try it this week and savor the deliciousness of perfectly baked salmon!