The beauty of this Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon lies in its simplicity and the way it brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients for a deeply satisfying dish. With juicy, tender salmon baked in a luscious lemony garlic butter sauce, it’s a recipe that feels fancy without the fuss.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a healthy weeknight option, this salmon recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal prep. It’s also perfect for meal prep and pairs well with roasted veggies, a light salad, or even fluffy rice. The lemon zest and garlic infuse the salmon with vibrant, savory notes that are hard to resist.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Lemon slices, for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
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Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
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Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
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Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is the epitome of a simple, yet indulgent meal that can be prepared in a matter of minutes. If you’re looking for a dish that is both healthy and incredibly flavorful, this recipe is the one to try. The fresh, tender salmon fillets are enhanced with a luxurious lemon garlic butter sauce, bringing out the fish’s natural flavors without overwhelming them. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or a busy weeknight, this dish promises to impress with minimal effort.
The Joy of Cooking Salmon
Salmon is often hailed as one of the healthiest fish you can consume, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high quality protein, and a range of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s no surprise that it’s a favorite among those looking to maintain a balanced diet while indulging in something delicious. Moreover, salmon is versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors. In this recipe, the salmon is coated with a zesty combination of garlic, lemon, and butter, allowing each bite to explode with savory goodness.
The beauty of Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon lies in how simple the recipe is to prepare. The ingredients are everyday staples that you likely already have in your kitchen: fresh lemon, garlic, butter, and parsley. The lemon and garlic create an aromatic, zesty base, while the butter ensures the fish remains moist and tender. The result is a juicy, succulent salmon fillet that perfectly balances richness with refreshing citrusy brightness.
Why Bake Salmon?
Baking is one of the best cooking methods for salmon because it allows the fish to retain its natural moisture while cooking evenly throughout. Baking also enhances the delicate flavor of salmon without overwhelming it with too many additional seasonings. In fact, this method allows the lemon garlic butter sauce to soak into the fish, infusing it with subtle, aromatic flavors.
Unlike grilling or pan-searing, baking does not require constant attention, making it an ideal option for busy cooks. Simply place the salmon in the oven, set the timer, and let the heat do its work. You can use this time to prepare a side dish or salad, making this recipe perfect for a quick weeknight meal that still feels indulgent. Additionally, the salmon’s natural oils help to keep the fish moist, so even if you don’t have a lot of experience cooking seafood, you’ll still end up with a perfectly cooked dish.
Pairing Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is in terms of what you can serve alongside it. Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon pairs well with a wide range of side dishes, from simple roasted vegetables to fresh, leafy salads. The richness of the salmon contrasts beautifully with light, refreshing sides, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
For a classic pairing, serve the salmon with roasted asparagus, a side of creamy mashed potatoes, or even some quinoa for a healthy grain option. If you prefer lighter sides, opt for a fresh cucumber and tomato salad or sautéed spinach with garlic. The lemony, buttery flavors of the salmon are also fantastic when paired with a side of wild rice or cauliflower rice for a low carb option.
Additionally, a crisp glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the fresh, zesty profile of the dish beautifully. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a refreshing cucumber or lemon-infused water works well to enhance the citrusy undertones in the salmon.
Tips for Perfecting the Dish
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Choose Fresh Salmon: The fresher the salmon, the better your dish will taste. Look for fillets that are bright in color and free from any unpleasant fishy odor. Fresh, high quality salmon will result in a much more flavorful meal.
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Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Overcooking salmon can result in dry, tough fish. To avoid this, bake the salmon until it just flakes easily with a fork. A good rule of thumb is to bake salmon for about 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), but depending on the thickness of the fillets, this could vary. The fish should be opaque but still moist.
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Use Fresh Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a much more vibrant and fragrant flavor compared to bottled lemon juice. Don’t forget the lemon zest, which adds an extra burst of citrusy aroma that elevates the dish.
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Make It Your Own: While this recipe is a classic, you can always tweak the flavors to suit your preferences. For example, add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard to the garlic butter sauce for a hint of sweetness or tang. If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the dish.
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Garnish Generously: Fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, are the perfect finishing touch for this dish. Not only do they add color and freshness, but they also complement the rich flavors of the salmon and garlic butter sauce.
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Cooking for a Crowd: If you’re cooking for a larger group, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Simply increase the amount of butter, garlic, and lemon juice proportionally. Baking the salmon in a larger baking dish or sheet pan is a convenient way to prepare multiple fillets at once.
Nutritional Benefits of Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
This dish is a powerhouse of nutrition, especially for those who are looking to boost their intake of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the salmon provides a high quality source of protein, which helps with muscle repair, tissue growth, and maintaining overall health.
Lemon garlic butter salmon is also rich in vitamin D, a vital nutrient that supports bone health and helps the body absorb calcium. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that promote overall well-being.
Conclusion
Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of buttery garlic sauce and tangy lemon perfectly enhances the natural flavor of the salmon, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and delivers impressive results every time.
With its minimal ingredients, quick prep time, and versatility, this dish is ideal for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend dinner, or even a dinner party. It’s a healthy, flavorful option that will leave everyone at the table satisfied and eager for more. Whether served with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a comforting grain, this baked salmon recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a light yet indulgent meal, give this Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser that brings together freshness, richness, and simplicity in one stunning dish.