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Garlic Butter Salmon: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

This Garlic Butter Salmon features seared salmon fillets topped with a rich garlic butter sauce, fresh lemon juice, and parsley. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick, flavorful, and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Start by selecting fresh salmon fillets. Skin-on fillets are preferred for added flavor and moisture, but skinless works just as well. Ensure they are bright in color and have a fresh smell.
  2. Use paper towels to pat the salmon fillets dry. This step is crucial as it helps achieve a nice sear when cooking.
  3. Generously season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, swirling the pan occasionally to prevent it from browning.
  5. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
  6. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest.
  7. Mix in the dried parsley (or fresh if using). Remove the saucepan from heat and set aside.
  8. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  9. Carefully place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving them.
  10. Gently flip the salmon fillets over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
  11. During the last minute of cooking, spoon some of the garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets.
  12. Transfer the fillets to a serving platter using a large spatula.
  13. Spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets.
  14. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Choose quality salmon for the best flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
  • Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.