Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple yet mouthwatering recipe that combines the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic with rich, buttery salmon. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Not only is it a quick recipe, but it’s also packed with omega-3s, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to any meal plan. The buttery garlic sauce infuses every bite, while fresh lemon adds a citrusy brightness, elevating the dish to restaurant-quality deliciousness. Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice for a complete, balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) salmon fillet
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness

Instructions

1.Preheat Your Oven

• Temperature: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Preparation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Alternatively, lightly grease the baking sheet with a bit of cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

2.Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 15-second intervals until completely liquified. You can also do this on the stove in a small saucepan on low heat.
• Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter, stirring well to distribute the garlic evenly.
• Incorporate Lemon: Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the butter mixture. The juice provides a fresh citrusy taste, while the zest brings out a more intense lemon aroma.
• Season: Sprinkle in salt and pepper, adjusting according to taste. For a balanced flavor profile, add 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the mixture (optional).
• Mix: Stir everything together until well combined. Set aside.

3.Prepare the Salmon

• Place on Baking Sheet: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, then place it skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Patting the fish dry helps the sauce adhere better.
• Pour the Sauce: Slowly pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the salmon. Use a spoon or a pastry brush to spread the sauce evenly across the surface. Make sure each part of the salmon is coated to ensure full flavor.
• Optional Topping: Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon fillet for an extra lemony infusion and for presentation.

4.Bake the Salmon

• Timing: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon. For a 1-inch-thick piece, 15 minutes is usually sufficient. Thicker pieces may need closer to 20 minutes.
• Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare and up to 145°F (63°C) for well-done, depending on your preference.

5.Broil for Crispier Edges (Optional)

• If you want the salmon to have slightly crispy, caramelized edges, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

6.Garnish and Serve

• Finishing Touches: Once the salmon is out of the oven, sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley for color and flavor.
• Serve with Lemon Slices: Garnish with additional lemon slices, if desired, for extra citrus brightness.
• Side Suggestions: Serve your lemon garlic butter salmon with steamed vegetables, rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients
   Fresh lemon juice and garlic enhance the flavor of the dish. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible; freshly squeezed juice will give the best results.
2. Select the Right Salmon
   Center-cut salmon fillets are ideal because they cook more evenly. If you’re using frozen salmon, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking.
3. Adjust Cooking Time Based on Thickness
   Thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker cuts need a few extra minutes. Aim for 15-20 minutes at 375°F and use a thermometer if you prefer precision.
4. Broil for Extra Crispiness
   For a more caramelized top, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
5. Customize the Sauce
   Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill to the lemon garlic butter sauce to enhance the flavor. For a hint of sweetness, try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup.
6. Check for Doneness Carefully
   Salmon is best when it’s tender and moist. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, and remember it will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the oven.

This Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s a go-to recipe for its ease, versatility, and satisfying flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this salmon dish provides a beautiful balance of creamy, savory, and citrusy notes in every bite. With just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a healthy, gourmet meal without the fuss. Next time you’re craving something delicious yet nutritious, give this lemon garlic butter salmon a try—it’s bound to impress!