If you’re craving a dinner that’s equal parts impressive and uncomplicated, the Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. Tender, flaky salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection before being draped in a luscious sauce bursting with tangy lemon, rich butter, and mouthwatering garlic. This dish delivers restaurant-level flavor in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight savior and an entertaining gem. Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or treating yourself, this ultimate salmon recipe always brings smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe lies not just in its incredible flavor, but also in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role: from the richness of butter to the zingy punch of lemon and freshness of parsley, nothing is superfluous and everything shines.
- Salmon fillets: Choose fresh, preferably wild-caught fillets for the best flavor and tender texture.
- Olive oil: A drizzle helps achieve that golden, crisped exterior while keeping the salmon moist.
- Unsalted butter: The base of our silky sauce, adding depth and indulgence without overwhelming other flavors.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for big, aromatic flavor—don’t skimp on this key ingredient!
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for a bright, tangy lift that cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Lemon zest: Adds a pop of intense citrus aroma and color—always zest before you juice!
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat perfectly balances the buttery sauce; add to taste or skip if you like it mild.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of both the salmon and the sauce.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on at the end for a fresh, herbaceous finish and vibrant color.
- Lemon slices (for garnish): A pretty finishing touch that signals the bright flavors inside.
How to Make Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon
Start by patting your salmon fillets dry—this little step goes a long way towards achieving that coveted crispy crust. Sprinkle both sides with a generous pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Don’t be shy: seasoning is the foundation of a flavorful Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add the fillets, skin-side down, and cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes. When the bottom is gorgeously golden and crisp, flip and cook the other side for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a plate and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Reduce your pan heat to medium and add the butter. As it starts to melt and bubble, stir in the minced garlic. Let it sizzle for about a minute, just until it’s wonderfully aromatic (careful not to let it brown). Pour in the fresh lemon juice, add that zingy zest, and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let the sauce gently simmer for another minute or two so all the flavors meld.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Slide the cooked salmon back into the skillet and use a spoon to generously baste the fillets with the warm, fragrant sauce. Let them soak up all that garlicky, lemony goodness for 1 to 2 minutes. Finish with a shower of chopped fresh parsley and slices of lemon. The Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is ready to serve piping hot!
How to Serve Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley and a few slices of lemon not only brighten up the plate but also remind everyone of the fresh, zesty flavors within. A sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes is lovely for spice lovers, too.
Side Dishes
This Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is especially delicious when served over a bed of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a plate of buttered noodles. It also loves the company of crisp green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple arugula salad for contrast and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party twist, serve the salmon fillets family-style on a large platter, spooning the sauce over the top and scattering with parsley and extra lemon rounds. Or, slice the fillets and serve over a vibrant rice pilaf—either way, it’s a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors of the Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe only get richer, making tomorrow’s lunch a real treat!
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon, though the sauce is best enjoyed fresh. For the best results, wrap salmon fillets individually and freeze for up to one month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat salmon fillets with a splash of water or a little extra butter in a covered skillet over low heat to retain moisture and prevent dryness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon tough and the sauce separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Absolutely! Just make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. This will ensure you still get that perfect crisp on the Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe.
What type Main Course
Fresh lemons are key here. Both the zest and juice add brightness—avoid bottled lemon juice for the most vibrant flavor.
Can I substitute the parsley?
If you’re out of parsley, fresh dill or chives also pair beautifully with salmon and the luscious garlic lemon butter sauce.
Is the recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a flavorful choice for almost any guest.
What’s the best pan to use?
A good heavy skillet, like stainless steel or cast iron, gives your salmon the best sear and allows you to build the sauce right in the same pan.
Final Thoughts
Few dishes can rival the ease and wow-factor of the Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe. It’s a simple, joyful meal that never fails to dazzle, bringing a little bit of luxury to any night of the week. Treat yourself to this recipe—you won’t regret it!
Print
Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this flavorful and easy-to-make Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce. Perfectly seared salmon fillets are bathed in a luscious sauce made with garlic, lemon, and butter, creating a dish that’s both elegant and delicious.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat dry salmon fillets and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook salmon until golden.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, add lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine and Serve: Return salmon to the skillet, spoon sauce over, cook briefly, garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
Notes
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
- Best with fresh wild-caught salmon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
