Savory Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe for Ultimate Flavor

There’s something undeniably special about cooking a dish that fills your home with scrumptious aromas and makes everyone feel like royalty at the dinner table. Garlic Butter Baked Salmon holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners where laughter flows as freely as the butter melts. Picture this: It’s a cool autumn evening, the leaves are swirling outside, and your kitchen is aglow with a warm light as you prepare a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, this dish becomes the star of the show.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice cook, or someone looking to impress, Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, yet its flavors are anything but ordinary. Let’s dive into the magic of this recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Quick to prepare and cooks in just 15-20 minutes!
• Budget-Friendly: Salmon is often affordable and packed with nutrients.
• Comforting Flavors: Rich garlic butter and tender salmon create a delightful harmony.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with just one baking dish to wash!
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with various sides to suit your taste!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delectable dish:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each) – look for skin-on for extra flavor!
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter – feel free to use ghee for a dairy-free version
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – for that bright, zesty kick
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (like oregano or thyme) – or use your favorite fresh herbs!
• Salt and pepper, to taste – always taste as you go!
• Chopped parsley or dill, for garnish – because we eat with our eyes first!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon.

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your salmon bakes evenly and beautifully.
2. Prepare the garlic butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let it sit on the heat for about 2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown!
3. Arrange the salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Pour half of the garlic butter mixture over the salmon, making sure each piece is well coated. Reserve the other half for basting later.
4. Bake it up: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. For the last 2-3 minutes, brush the reserved garlic butter over the top to add an extra layer of flavor!
5. Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the salmon with chopped parsley or dill. Serve immediately and enjoy the applause!

Pro Tips & Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not mix things up a bit? Here are some fun twists to personalize your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a hint of heat!
• Fruit pairing: Try adding thin slices of lemon or orange atop the salmon for a citrusy twist while it bakes.
• Herb swap: Instead of Italian herbs, consider fresh dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Veggie sidekick: Toss some asparagus or broccoli on the baking sheet with the salmon for a complete one-pan meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delicious salmon, think cozy comfort! I love pairing my Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up that heavenly garlic butter. A crisp side salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette, adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve it alongside some sweet potato fries or roasted veggies. Finish it all off with a glass of crisp white wine or a sparkling water infused with citrus for a delightful meal.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), here’s how to store and reheat them without losing that amazing flavor:

• Refrigerating: Allow the salmon to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors actually meld together even more, making for a delightful lunch the next day!
• Freezing: Wrap the baked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to keep it well-sealed to prevent freezer burn!
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave it for a quick option, but be careful not to dry it out!

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely! Frozen salmon works just fine. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before baking for the best results. You might need to adjust your cooking time slightly, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?

So many wonderful options! As mentioned earlier, sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a nice crisp green salad are fantastic. You could also complement it with some roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa!

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

If you’re looking to lighten it up, try reducing the amount of butter by half and substitute with olive oil instead. You’ll still get the wonderful flavors without all the richness!

Can I cook this on the grill?

You sure can! Just make sure to use a piece of aluminum foil or a grill basket to keep the salmon from falling apart. The grill adds a delightful smoky flavor that elevates the dish!

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

No fresh garlic? No problem! You can substitute with 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove. Just remember, fresh garlic will give you that irresistible aroma and taste, so use it if you can!

Conclusion

And there you have it, my friend! Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is not just a recipe, it’s an experience—a deliciously savory hug from your oven that brings warmth to any gathering or just a casual weeknight at home. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to drop a comment or share your favorite variations. Happy cooking!

Savory Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe for Ultimate Flavor

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the savory flavors of garlic butter baked salmon a delicious dish perfect for any occasion Try this recipe for a taste sensation 154 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

1/4 cup unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Salt and pepper, to taste

Chopped parsley or dill, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let it sit on the heat for about 2 minutes, just until fragrant.

Place the salmon fillets skin-side down on a lined baking sheet. Pour half of the garlic butter mixture over the salmon.

Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily. For the last 2-3 minutes, brush the reserved garlic butter over the top.

Garnish with chopped parsley or dill before serving.

Notes

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a simple yet delightful dish that combines rich flavors with minimal effort, perfect for any occasion.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 0g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g

Keywords: salmon recipe, baked salmon, garlic butter, easy dinner recipe, healthy salmon dish