Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Elevate your dinner with this vibrant Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe. Pan-seared to achieve a perfect crisp, this dish is drizzled with a zesty garlic butter sauce and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon, providing a burst of flavor in every bite. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this salmon recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Anna Johnson

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T09:37:11.218Z

This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon is not just a dish; it's an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and brings the family together at the dinner table.

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon is not just a dish; it's an experience. Whether you're hosting a special dinner party or looking to provide a nutritious meal for your family on a weekday, this salmon recipe fits the bill. It’s impressive enough to serve guests while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The vibrant flavors of garlic and lemon paired with perfectly cooked salmon make it a standout option that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Salmon itself is a fantastic choice for meals as it is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. This recipe elevates the nutritional value while keeping the preparation quick and hassle-free. You can easily serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Tips for Selecting the Best Salmon

When it comes to choosing salmon, fresh is always best. Look for fillets that appear bright and moist, and avoid those that have a dull color or are discolored. It's also advisable to check for any off-putting odors; fresh salmon should have a mild scent of the sea.

You can opt for wild-caught salmon varieties, such as sockeye or king salmon, which are not only more flavorful but also more sustainable compared to farmed salmon. If you do choose farmed salmon, ensure it's sourced from reputable suppliers that practice sustainable farming methods. This ensures you're not only getting the best flavor but also supporting environmentally responsible seafood choices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Ingredients

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prep the Salmon

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

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Cook the Salmon

Add the salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon while it finishes cooking.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon with your favorite side dishes!

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is celebrated for being a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in high-quality protein, it also provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and selenium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining robust health, supporting everything from immune function to bone health.

The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon are particularly beneficial for brain and heart health. Regularly including salmon in your diet may help lower the risk of heart disease and improve cognitive function, making this dish not only delicious but also a smart dietary choice.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing wine with your Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio works beautifully. These white wines enhance the dish’s fresh flavors while balancing the richness of the buttery sauce. For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can complement the meal just as well.

In terms of side dishes, consider serving the salmon with asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a vibrant quinoa salad. These pairings not only add to the visual appeal of your plate but also contribute additional nutrients and textures that enhance the overall dining experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

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

→ What should I serve with this salmon?

It pairs well with rice, asparagus, or a fresh salad.

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Elevate your dinner with this vibrant Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe. Pan-seared to achieve a perfect crisp, this dish is drizzled with a zesty garlic butter sauce and finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon, providing a burst of flavor in every bite. Quick to prepare and packed with protein, this salmon recipe is sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Prep Time10.0
Cooking Duration15.0
Overall Time25.0

Created by: Anna Johnson

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4.0

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

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

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

Add the salmon fillets to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 04

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon while it finishes cooking.

Step 05

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fat: 30g