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Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
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Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any weeknight. It features tender salmon fillets seared to perfection and topped with a rich, aromatic lemon garlic butter sauce that enhances every bite. Quick to prepare and packed with omega-3s and protein, it’s a versatile meal that can be served with a variety of sides for a complete, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon and Seasoning

  • 4 salmon fillets (fresh or thawed, skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Sauce and Cooking

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors.
  2. Sear the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, place the salmon skin-side down if skin-on. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  3. Flip and Add Garlic Butter: Carefully turn the salmon over to the other side. Lower the heat to medium, then add butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Spoon the melted garlic butter sauce repeatedly over the salmon to infuse it with flavor as it finishes cooking.
  4. Finish Cooking and Serve: Cook salmon for another 3 to 4 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve immediately for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use the freshest salmon available for optimal texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give each fillet space for proper searing.
  • Control heat to medium to avoid burning garlic and ensure a good sear.
  • Baste salmon with the garlic butter sauce during cooking to keep it moist.
  • Use lemon zest as well as juice for a vibrant citrus aroma.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon garlic butter salmon, easy salmon recipe, healthy salmon, weeknight dinner, omega-3 meal, pan-seared fish

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/lemon-garlic-butter-salmon/