Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
This Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a delightful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter. Perfect for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan Searing, Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6–8 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Salmon: Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the salmon generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Sear the Salmon: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets into the skillet, skin-side down if they have skin. Sear the salmon for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it develops a golden-brown crust. Be careful not to move the salmon around too much during this step to ensure a good sear. Flip the salmon over and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Finish Cooking in the Oven: If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer it directly to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). If not, transfer the seared salmon fillets to an oven-safe dish. Roast the salmon in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and is slightly opaque in the center.
- Prepare the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: While the salmon is in the oven, prepare the sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Combine and Serve: Once the salmon is done cooking in the oven, remove it from the skillet or dish. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the seared salmon fillets. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce immediately, accompanied by your choice of side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: Salmon, Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce, Seafood, Dinner Recipe, Easy, Quick