Have you ever craved a dish that feels both indulgent and healthy at the same time? Imagine sinking your fork into tender, flaky salmon infused with the rich aroma of garlic butter. This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is not just a meal; it’s an experience that delights the senses. The golden crust on top complements the moist fish beneath, creating a harmony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Picture this dish gracing your dining table during a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Every bite offers a burst of flavor, making it an instant favorite. As you savor this remarkable combination, you’ll understand why this recipe has become my go-to for any occasion. Prepare to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
Quick and Easy Preparation: This delicious recipe comes together in about 30 minutes from start to finish. With minimal prep work and cooking time, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The rich combination of garlic and butter elevates the natural flavors of the salmon while keeping it moist and tender. Each bite is satisfying and bursting with deliciousness.
Nutritious Meal Option: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients that promote heart health and overall well-being. This dish makes it easy to indulge in a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a weeknight meal, this Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It pairs well with various sides, making it an ideal choice for everyone.
Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Salmon Fillets: Fresh or frozen fillets work well; just ensure they are fully thawed if using frozen.
- Garlic: Use fresh cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic adds depth to the buttery sauce.
- Unsalted Butter: This allows you to control salt levels in your dish while providing richness.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds color and a fresh touch to this savory dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking for your salmon fillets.
Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil. Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared dish.
Create Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Stir until well combined.
Coat Salmon Fillets: Pour or brush the garlic butter mixture over each salmon fillet generously. Ensure every piece is covered for optimal flavor infusion.
Bake Until Flaky: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baked salmon from the oven and let it rest briefly before serving. Transfer to plates alongside your favorite sides for an exquisite dining experience!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Selecting Fresh Salmon: Choose bright pink fillets without any discoloration or strong fishy smell. Freshness ensures better taste and texture.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your salmon while baking; overcooked fish becomes dry. Aim for an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C).
Add Extra Flavorings: Experiment by adding herbs like dill or spices like paprika for additional layers of flavor that complement salmon beautifully.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve baked salmon alongside roasted vegetables or rice pilaf for a balanced meal that pleases everyone at your table.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
Steamed Asparagus
The freshness of steamed asparagus complements the rich flavors of the baked salmon, creating a balanced meal that is both healthy and delicious.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that enhances the savory taste of the salmon, making every bite enjoyable and satisfying.
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing element to your plate, contrasting nicely with the buttery salmon.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The crispy texture and slightly bitter flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts perfectly offset the richness of the baked salmon, creating a delightful dining experience.
FAQs
How do I make sure my salmon is flaky?
To ensure your Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is flaky, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, which results in tender, moist fish.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure to thaw it completely before seasoning and baking for best results.
What can I substitute for garlic butter?
If you prefer a lighter option, olive oil or herb-infused butter can be great substitutions for garlic butter in this baked salmon recipe.
How long should I bake the salmon?
Baking time usually ranges from 12 to 15 minutes for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter at 375°F. Adjust based on thickness for optimal results.
Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that beautifully marries indulgence and health. This recipe showcases succulent salmon fillets, oven-baked to perfection, and generously topped with a rich garlic butter sauce. The result? A moist, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can elevate your dinner game and impress your family and friends. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and experience the magic of garlic butter salmon tonight!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin-on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat; add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Stir in lemon juice.
- Place the salmon fillets skin side down in a baking dish; pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Let rest for five minutes before serving; garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like dill or thyme.
- Pair with steamed vegetables, quinoa salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg