Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
Elevate your dinner with this exquisite Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon recipe. The rich, buttery garlic sauce complements the salmon perfectly, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
This dish is a culinary delight that combines the richness of butter with the zesty flavor of lemon and the aromatic essence of garlic. It's a true celebration of taste!
The Perfect Pairing for Salmon
Salmon is a rich and flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces and sides. The buttery garlic lemon sauce in this recipe elevates the salmon, enhancing its natural flavors. This dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also brings a balance of umami and zest that makes each bite memorable. You can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to round out your meal.
Choosing the right salmon is crucial for achieving the best results. Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it tends to have a firmer texture and a richer flavor. Fresh salmon is usually more vibrant in color and has a pleasant scent compared to previously frozen options. When selecting your fillets, look for bright, moist flesh and avoid any fish with a dull appearance or strong odor.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the standout features of this Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon recipe is its simplicity. In just under 30 minutes, you can prepare a delicious and gourmet-tasting meal that impresses family and friends alike. The steps are straightforward and require minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
In addition to its quick cooking time, this recipe allows for great flexibility. You can easily adjust the amount of garlic and lemon to suit your taste preferences. If you're a fan of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This adaptability ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy the dish just the way they like it.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Salmon
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add lemon juice and stir to combine.
Combine and Serve
Pour the sauce over the salmon, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips for Cooking Salmon
When cooking salmon, it’s essential to avoid overcooking to maintain its moisture and tenderness. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still appears slightly translucent in the center. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Using a non-stick skillet can help prevent the salmon from sticking and ensure that it cooks evenly. Additionally, allowing the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking can help enhance its juiciness and give the flavors of the sauce time to meld into the fish.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines complements the lemon in the sauce and enhances the overall dining experience. A refreshing cucumber or mixed green salad would also serve as a delightful addition to balance the richness of the salmon and sauce.
For a well-rounded meal, serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. These grains not only absorb the delicious sauce but also add texture and heartiness to the dish. Finish your meal with a light dessert, such as sorbet or a fruit salad, to leave everyone feeling satisfied but not weighed down.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
→ What side dishes go well with this?
This salmon pairs well with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon
Elevate your dinner with this exquisite Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Salmon recipe. The rich, buttery garlic sauce complements the salmon perfectly, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Quick & Easy
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add lemon juice and stir to combine.
Pour the sauce over the salmon, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 22g