After a long week filled with busy schedules and takeout meals, I found myself yearning for a dinner that would feel like a delightful escape. That’s when I turned to my pantry and pulled out some fresh salmon and garlic—ingredients that never fail to inspire. With just a few simple components, I whipped up a dish that felt luxurious yet effortless: Garlic Butter Salmon.
The golden butter glistening in the skillet, combined with the scent of garlic wafting through the air, instantly lifted my spirits. This dish offers a beautiful harmony of flavors, with the richness of the salmon perfectly complemented by the zesty brightness of lemon and the warmth of butter. Best of all, it only takes 20 minutes from prep to plate, proving that homemade meals can be both quick and rewarding. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply trying to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe is bound to impress. So, let’s dive into the art of creating this delectable dish!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Salmon
- This Garlic Butter Salmon is incredibly easy to make, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- The rich and savory flavor of the garlic butter elevates the salmon, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- With its simple ingredients, this recipe is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but its gorgeous presentation will wow your guests and make any meal feel special.
Garlic Butter Salmon Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavorful delight!
For the Salmon
- Salmon fillets – Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for extra flavor and crispiness.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural taste of the salmon.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Unsalted butter – Using unsalted allows you to control the salt levels in the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic provides a robust flavor that’s essential to this Garlic Butter Salmon.
- Fresh lemon juice – A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
- Dried parsley – This adds a touch of earthiness and a pop of color to your plate.
For Serving
- Lemon wedges – Serve alongside the salmon for an extra burst of freshness when squeezed over the top.
How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon
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Pat dry
Gently pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides with a generous pinch of salt and pepper for a flavorful base. -
Melt butter
Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it sizzles and bubbles. This creates a beautiful, rich base for your salmon. -
Cook the salmon
Carefully add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and allow them to cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. The sizzling sound means you’re on the right track! -
Flip and finish
Gently flip the fillets over and cook for another 3–4 minutes. You want the salmon to be cooked through and flaky upon inserting a fork—watch for that beautiful pink color inside! -
Prepare for sauce
Remove the cooked salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. This lets the flavors relax while you whip up the garlic butter sauce. -
Add more butter
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt completely, creating a luscious sauce. -
Sauté garlic
Once the butter is melted, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden. The aroma will be irresistible! -
Make the sauce
Stir in the fresh lemon juice and dried parsley, cooking for an additional minute. This will create a vibrant and aromatic garlic butter sauce that’s perfect for drizzling. -
Combine and heat
Gently add the cooked salmon back into the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top. Let it warm through for one more minute, ensuring every bite is infused with that rich flavor. -
Serve and enjoy
Plate the salmon, drizzling with the garlic butter sauce from the skillet. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zesty kick.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Salmon?
Elevate your dinner experience with sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your salmon.
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Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The bright, slightly sweet taste of roasted asparagus pairs wonderfully with the savory garlic butter, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
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Lemon Herb Quinoa: This nutty side brings a light, refreshing bite that harmonizes beautifully with the richness of the salmon, making for a satisfying meal.
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Creamy Spinach Risotto: Indulge in the silky texture of risotto, which offers a luscious contrast to the crispy salmon skin, creating a delightful bite.
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Crispy Potatoes: Whether roasted or fried, crispy potatoes add a crunchy texture that complements the tender salmon, ensuring a satisfying crunch in every mouthful.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the salmon, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the fish perfectly, with crisp acidity and fruity notes elevating every bite.
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Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note with a palate-cleansing lemon sorbet, echoing the citrus notes of the salmon and leaving you feeling rejuvenated.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Salmon fillets are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can season the salmon (salt and pepper) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The garlic butter sauce can also be prepared ahead; just sauté the garlic and mix in the lemon juice and parsley, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, cover the salmon tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply pan-fry the seasoned salmon, warm the garlic butter sauce on the stove, and drizzle it over the salmon for a fresh and delightful meal that tastes just as delicious as if you made it on the same day!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Salmon
Fridge: Store cooked Garlic Butter Salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain its moisture.
Freezer: If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your leftover salmon with fresh sides or toss it into salads—it’s versatile and delicious even after being stored!
Garlic Butter Salmon Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this recipe to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Herb-Infused: Substitute the dried parsley with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a fragrant twist that brightens the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a delightful kick that awakens your taste buds.
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Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange juice or zest along with the lemon for a sweet and tangy flavor explosion.
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Honey Glaze: Drizzle a bit of honey over the salmon before cooking, allowing it to caramelize and create a sweet, sticky glaze.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a spoonful of cream or crème fraîche to the sauce for an extra creamy texture that elevates the dish.
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Mushroom Mushroom: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy richness that complements the salmon beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Top your salmon with chopped almonds or walnuts just before serving to add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
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Pesto Twist: Substitute the garlic butter sauce with fresh pesto for an aromatic kick that transforms this dish into a flavorful Italian delight.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure to pat the salmon fillets dry before seasoning; this helps achieve a nice crispy skin during cooking.
- Use medium-high heat when melting the butter, as this allows for proper cooking without burning the garlic.
- When flipping the salmon, use a thin spatula to prevent breaking the delicate fillets.
- For optimal flavor, let the garlic sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to avoid bitterness in your garlic butter sauce for the Garlic Butter Salmon.
Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best salmon fillets?
Absolutely! When selecting salmon, look for fresh fillets with bright, vibrant color and no dark spots. The flesh should be firm to the touch, and you want to ensure there’s a clean sea smell—nothing “fishy.” Skin-on fillets offer extra flavor and crispy texture, making them ideal for this Garlic Butter Salmon recipe.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store your cooked Garlic Butter Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to preserve its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pop it into the skillet for a quick reheat.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Salmon?
Of course! If you’re looking to save some for later, wrap the salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can safely store it in the freezer for up to 2 months!
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating will help keep the salmon moist and delicious.
What should I do if my garlic butter sauce turns bitter?
Ah, I feel you! If your garlic butter sauce has turned bitter, it often means the garlic has been overcooked. To avoid this, sauté the minced garlic in melted butter for just about 30 seconds or until fragrant—keep a close eye on it! If it has already turned bitter, you can always start fresh by melting more butter and adding new garlic, stirring just until aromatic.
Is Garlic Butter Salmon suitable for pets?
Definitely check before sharing! While salmon itself is generally safe for pets, the seasoning and butter can be problematic. Make sure to offer plain, cooked salmon without butter or seasonings to your furry friends. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice based on your pet’s health needs.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re out of fresh lemon juice, you can use a little vinegar or omit it. For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. If you’re watching your salt intake, feel free to use salt substitutes or skip the extra salt altogether—make this Garlic Butter Salmon your own!
Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients
- 4 fillets Salmon fillets Choose fresh, skin-on fillets for extra flavor and crispiness.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Essential for seasoning.
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter Allows control of salt levels.
- 4 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for robust flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Dried parsley Adds earthiness and color.
- 1 Lemon wedges For an extra burst of freshness.
Method
- Gently pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it sizzles and bubbles.
- Carefully add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and allow them to cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Gently flip the fillets over and cook for another 3–4 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
- Remove the cooked salmon from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and dried parsley, cooking for an additional minute.
- Gently add the cooked salmon back into the skillet, spooning the garlic butter sauce over the top.
- Plate the salmon, drizzling with the garlic butter sauce from the skillet and serve with lemon wedges.
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