Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: A Flavorful Meal

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Author: Diann Mashburn
Published:

Introduction

Salmon is a beloved fish known for its rich flavor and healthy benefits. When paired with a garlic lemon butter sauce, it transforms into a dish that tantalizes the taste buds while being quick and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your kitchen. Let’s dive into preparing salmon that is moist, flaky, and infused with a vibrant sauce.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe provides clear instructions to ensure your salmon turns out perfectly every time. You’ll soon find this dish becoming a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Directions & Preparation

  1. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt.
  2. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides, and place them skin-side down in the skillet.
  3. Cook the fillets for about 5-6 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to crisp up.
  4. Flip the salmon carefully using a spatula, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a plate and tent it with foil to keep warm.
  6. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not burned.
  7. Add the lemon juice and zest to the skillet, stirring to combine and lift any bits stuck to the bottom.
  8. Return the salmon to the skillet, spoon the garlic lemon butter sauce over the fillets, and sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving.
Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: A Rich, Flavorful, and Easy Meal step photo

FAQs

What can I do if the garlic burns?

Keep the heat low when sautéing the garlic to prevent burning. If it does burn, start over with fresh garlic.

How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance in the center.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for fresh parsley?

You can use fresh dill or chives for a different flavor profile.

Why is my sauce too thin?

If your sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it up.

Can I use this sauce on other types of fish?

Absolutely! This garlic lemon butter sauce pairs wonderfully with other fish like tilapia, cod, or halibut.

What wine pairs well with salmon in this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Salmon with garlic lemon butter sauce is a delightful dish that celebrates simple flavors and quick cooking techniques. It's impressive enough to serve at a dinner party yet easy enough to enjoy on a casual weeknight.

Incorporating this recipe into your cooking repertoire ensures that you will always have a go-to meal that pleases both the palate and the spirit. Enjoy your culinary journey with this rich and flavorful dish!

Recipe Card

Indulgent High Protein Low Carb Chocolate Cake

Delicious High Protein Low Carb Chocolate Cake made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup protein powder chocolate or vanilla
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/2 cup erythritol or your preferred sugar substitute
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, cocoa powder, protein powder, erythritol, baking soda, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add applesauce and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until no dry streaks remain.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
  9. Once cooled, frost as desired or enjoy plain.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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Cooking Made Easy

Are you new to this website? This free email series is a work. You’ll learn some handy baking science and quickly gain the knowledge to become a better cooker.

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