Have you ever tasted a dish that instantly transports you to a cozy seaside cottage? Imagine flaky, tender salmon drizzled with rich garlic butter, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter not only looks stunning but also offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is all about simplicity and satisfaction. In just a few easy steps, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Get ready to elevate your dinner game while enjoying the mouthwatering experience of perfectly baked salmon.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
Quick and Easy Preparation: This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter comes together in no time! With minimal prep work required, you can have this wholesome dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Simply season the salmon fillets, prepare the garlic butter sauce, and let the oven do all the work for you.
Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of garlic and butter creates an irresistible flavor profile that enhances the natural taste of the salmon. Each bite will be packed with savory goodness that leaves you wanting more. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen is sure to entice everyone around.
Healthy Meal Option: Salmon is renowned for its health benefits, being rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. By baking it instead of frying, you retain those nutrients while keeping the dish light and healthy. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether served over rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or in a fresh salad, this dish pairs beautifully with various sides. You can easily customize it to fit your dining preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Salmon Fillets: Choose skin-on or skinless fillets based on your preference; wild-caught salmon often has superior flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning level in your dish better.
Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh cloves rather than pre-minced for maximum flavor impact in your garlic butter sauce.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.
Dried Herbs: Use a blend of dried herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor depth without overpowering the 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: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures crispy edges while keeping the inside moist and tender.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with nonstick cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. Place your salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared dish.
Create Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt unsalted butter until it’s fully liquid. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Remove from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with your choice of dried herbs. Mix well so all flavors are combined before spooning over the salmon fillets.
Bake Your Salmon: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with leftover garlic butter sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Choose Quality Fish: Always opt for high-quality fresh fish from a trusted source; this makes all the difference in flavor and texture when preparing baked salmon.
Don’t Overcook!: Keep an eye on cooking time since overcooked salmon can become dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Add Extra Flavor: For an extra boost of flavor, consider marinating your salmon in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking; this infuses moisture directly into the fish.
Use Foil for Easy Cleanup: Line your baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil before placing in your salmon; this makes cleanup effortless!
Pair Wisely!: Think about complementary sides such as garlic mashed potatoes or sautéed asparagus; these pair wonderfully with baked salmon while maintaining balance on your plate.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside roasted asparagus for a healthy and colorful plate. The slight crunch of the asparagus complements the tender salmon perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.
Another excellent companion is quinoa salad. A light salad, tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette, enhances the dish’s freshness while providing a nutritious boost. The flavors work harmoniously with the rich garlic butter sauce on the salmon.
For a comforting touch, consider serving your baked salmon with creamy mashed potatoes. Their smooth texture balances the fish’s richness and adds an element of comfort to your meal. Finally, a side of garlic bread can elevate your dining experience, allowing you to soak up every drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.
FAQs
What are the best side dishes for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter?
Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a healthy option. A quinoa salad also complements the dish well, adding freshness and texture. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread are ideal for those who enjoy comfort food paired with their seafood.
Can I cook Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter in advance. You can marinate the salmon with garlic butter up to 24 hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake the fish just before serving to maintain its freshness and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
What is the cooking time for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter?
The cooking time for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter depends on the thickness of the fillet. Generally, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Always check for doneness at around 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture in your fish while allowing the flavors of garlic butter to penetrate effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you create a meal that impresses everyone at your table. Pair this flavorful dish with sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad to enhance its appeal further. Remember to cook it carefully to prevent dryness; aim for moist and flaky results that highlight its natural flavors.
Whether you serve this baked salmon as part of a family dinner or during a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting with different sides and garnishes that complement its rich taste without overshadowing it. This recipe will quickly become a favorite due to its ease and satisfying flavors!
Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is a delectable dish that brings the flavors of gourmet dining right into your home kitchen. This easy-to-make recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets generously drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce, accented by a splash of fresh lemon juice. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at special gatherings. The buttery garlic flavor melds beautifully with the natural sweetness of the salmon, making it a dish everyone will love. Pair it with seasonal vegetables or a light salad to create a balanced and nutritious dinner that delights both the eyes and taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley or dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish and season with salt and pepper.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Stir in lemon juice and herbs, then pour the mixture over the salmon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 209mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
Keywords: - For additional flavor, marinate the salmon in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes before baking. - Serve alongside roasted asparagus or quinoa salad for a colorful plate.
