Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Elevate your dinner with this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon that combines the richness of butter with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors, highlighting the natural taste of fresh salmon. Ideal for a healthy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish, this salmon is sure to become a favorite.

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T09:09:33.002Z

This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe is a family favorite that brings together simple ingredients for a delicious meal.

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Cooking can often feel like a chore, especially on busy weeknights. However, this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe simplifies the process while delivering a meal that feels indulgent. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a vibrant, delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. This dish is not only quick but also straightforward, making it perfect for those who may not have extensive cooking experience.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon enhances the natural flavors of fresh salmon without overwhelming them. Each bite is a harmonious blend of richness and brightness, appealing to both the palate and the nose. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring exciting flavors to their dinner table without investing too much time.

Healthy Yet Delicious

If you’re on a health kick but still want satisfaction from your meals, look no further. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy choice. By choosing unsalted butter and controlling the amount of garlic and lemon juice you use, you can keep the dish light yet flavorful. This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Accompany this dish with fresh vegetables or a side of whole grains for a complete and nutritious meal. The zesty lemon not only elevates the flavor profile but also adds a delightful freshness that complements the richness of the salmon. Eating well doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, and this recipe is a perfect demonstration of how healthy eating can still be incredibly enjoyable.

Impress Your Guests

Hosting a dinner party or casual get-together? Impress your guests with this elegant yet easy-to-make salmon dish. Because it cooks quickly and looks beautiful when plated, it enables you to focus on entertaining rather than spending all your time in the kitchen. A perfectly cooked salmon fillet, golden and garnished with fresh parsley, is sure to wow your friends and family.

Pair it with a crisp salad or light pasta to create a complete meal that showcases your culinary flair. Your guests will be amazed by the delicious flavors, and they’ll never guess how simple it was to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll serve up a restaurant-quality dish that can easily become the star of the evening.

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon Ingredients

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

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon

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

Make the Garlic Butter

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Cook the Salmon

Add the salmon to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Lemon Juice

Drizzle the lemon juice over the salmon in the last minute of cooking.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon

To achieve the perfect sear on your salmon, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the fish. A good sear locks in moisture and flavor, contributing to a delightful texture. Additionally, don’t be afraid to use your senses during the cooking process. Look for the salmon to change color as it cooks, and use a fork to check the flakiness.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, experiment with additional herbs or spices. Dill, thyme, or even a hint of paprika can add unique twists while still complementing the garlic and lemon beautifully. Flexibility and experimentation can elevate your cooking to another level.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked salmon will generally last for up to three days. When reheating, avoid using high temperatures to prevent drying out the fish. Instead, try warming it gently in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave for short intervals.

You can also incorporate leftover salmon into salads, pasta dishes, or breakfast scrambles, providing a fantastic way to repurpose your meal and reduce food waste. This versatility makes Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon not only a great stand-alone dish but also a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What other seasonings can I add?

Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor.

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Elevate your dinner with this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon that combines the richness of butter with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors, highlighting the natural taste of fresh salmon. Ideal for a healthy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party dish, this salmon is sure to become a favorite.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emma Johnson

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon Ingredients

  1. 4 salmon fillets
  2. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 1 lemon, juiced
  5. Salt and pepper, to taste
  6. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 03

Add the salmon to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 04

Drizzle the lemon juice over the salmon in the last minute of cooking.

Step 05

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 22g