Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon: A Delicious Dinner Recipe

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Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is a delightful seafood dish that has graced our dinner tables with its simplicity and elegance. This Pan Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce showcases juicy salmon fillets cooked to golden perfection. With a rich garlic lemon butter sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or something special, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

This recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a favorite among seafood lovers:

Quick preparation time, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish.
Healthy, packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Simple ingredients that create a restaurant-quality dish.
Perfect for a romantic dinner or a family meal.
Versatile; pairs well with various sides like asparagus or rice.
Gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets.
Delicious flavor from the garlic and lemon, enhancing the salmon’s natural taste.
Easy Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon recipe that anyone can master!

Ingredients for Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

Gather these items:

4 (6 oz) skinless salmon fillets (about 1-inch thick)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 Tbsp + 1 tsp unsalted butter, diced into 1 Tbsp pieces
1/2 tsp honey
2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

How to Make Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon Step-by-Step

Step 1: Remove salmon fillets from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: In a small saucepan, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until lightly golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 3: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce by half, approximately 3 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the remaining 3 tablespoons of diced butter and honey. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 5: Pat both sides of the salmon fillets dry. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 6: Heat the olive oil in a heavy 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Step 7: Place the salmon fillets in the hot oil and cook for about 4 minutes without moving them.
Step 8: Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 9: Transfer the salmon to plates. Drizzle the warm garlic lemon butter sauce over each fillet, sprinkle with parsley, and garnish with lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

Keep these in mind:

Ensure salmon is at room temperature for even cooking.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste for a more personalized flavor.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice is often less vibrant.
For a twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

This dish pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed asparagus for a fresh crunch.
Garlic mashed potatoes for a creamy side.
Quinoa or rice to soak up the delicious lemon garlic sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

To store leftovers, place the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to maintain moisture and flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon?

The key to perfect Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is not overcooking the fish. Aim for a moist, flaky texture by following the cooking times closely. Using fresh ingredients, especially lemon and garlic, enhances the flavor significantly.

Can I make Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon ahead of time?

While the salmon is best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic lemon butter sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving. This saves you time during dinner prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon?

Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon to get a nice sear. Also, don’t skip letting the fillets rest at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.

Variations of Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon You Can Try

Here are some delicious twists:

Add herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor.
Incorporate vegetables such as spinach or cherry tomatoes for a complete meal.
Try a honey garlic marinade for a different flavor profile.
Serve with a side of lemon butter sauce for dipping.

Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon: A Delicious Dinner Recipe - Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs or Creamy Pumpkin Soup. If you’re interested in meal prep, Slow Cooker Garlic Herb recipes are a great option!

For additional information on the health benefits of salmon, you can visit Healthline.