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Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon Flavorful and Tasty Dish

by on January 28, 2025

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Looking to impress at dinner but short on time? This Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon recipe is both simple and full of flavor! With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant. Follow my easy steps for perfectly cooked salmon that melts in your mouth. Ready to elevate your meal? Let’s get cooking!

To make garlic butter roasted salmon, you need the following items: - 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 6 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Lemon wedges, for serving - Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional) Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish flavorful and tasty. The salmon fillets are the star, providing a rich base. The unsalted butter and garlic create a creamy, aromatic sauce. Lemon juice adds brightness, while parsley gives color and freshness. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors. Lemon wedges serve as a perfect side, adding zesty notes to each bite. If you like, thyme sprigs bring a lovely touch of earthiness. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. They will help you create a delicious meal that shines on any table. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat gives the salmon a nice crust. To save time on cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, the salmon won’t stick and the sheet stays clean. Use a small saucepan to melt the butter. Keep the heat low. This gentle cooking lets the butter melt without burning. Once it melts, add the minced garlic. Cook for about two minutes. You want it to smell great, not brown. Brown garlic can taste bitter. Now, take your salmon fillets. Place them skin-side down on the baking sheet. Make sure they have space around them. Next, use a brush to coat each fillet with the garlic butter mix. This adds amazing flavor. For extra taste, sprinkle more salt and pepper on top. Slide the baking sheet into the oven. Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by using a fork. The fish should flake easily. If it does, it’s ready to eat! Once the salmon is out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the salmon with lemon wedges on the side. Add fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely look. Enjoy your delicious meal! To make your garlic butter shine, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic gives a strong and rich aroma. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs will boost the flavor and scent of your dish. When adding lemon juice, use fresh juice. This will balance the rich butter and add a bright taste. Just a tablespoon can lift the dish up. For the best salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it is safe and moist. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork. If it starts to look white around the edges, it may be overdone. Keep a close eye on your salmon as it bakes. Plating is key to a beautiful meal. Serve each salmon fillet on a bed of sautéed greens or colorful roasted vegetables. This adds color and nutrition. You can also arrange lemon wedges and thyme sprigs around the salmon. This creates a lovely and inviting look. These small touches can impress your guests and make the meal feel special. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor in your garlic butter mixture. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish significantly and enhance the overall taste. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch it closely. Remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork to maintain its moisture and tenderness. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist on the classic garlic butter flavor. It can personalize the dish to your taste preferences. Serve with Sides: Pair the salmon with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like quinoa for a well-rounded meal. This not only enhances the dining experience but also adds nutritional value. {{image_4}} You can change the herbs in this dish. Instead of parsley, try rosemary or dill. Both herbs add a nice flavor. Rosemary gives a warm, earthy taste. Dill has a fresh, bright flavor. Use what you like or have on hand. It's fun to experiment! You can add vegetables for extra taste and nutrition. Consider using asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. These veggies roast well with salmon. Try adding chili flakes for a bit of heat. A touch of honey can add sweetness and depth. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. You can prepare salmon in advance for busy nights. Season and coat the fillets with the garlic butter. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze the salmon. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a quick meal. To keep your leftover salmon fresh, use airtight containers. Place the salmon in a container. Cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain its flavor and texture. Consume the salmon within three days for the best taste. For reheating, I recommend using the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Just heat it on low power for 30-second intervals. Check often to avoid overcooking. To tell if your salmon has gone bad, check for a few signs. Fresh salmon should smell like the ocean, not fishy. Look for a bright color and firm texture. If it feels slimy or has a dull color, it's best to toss it. Always trust your senses; if it seems off, don’t eat it. Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it first. Place the salmon in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. This method is quick and safe. Simply seal the salmon in a bag, then submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, you can follow the recipe as usual. Garlic butter roasted salmon goes well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed asparagus or green beans - Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes - Garlic mashed potatoes - Quinoa or brown rice - Sautéed spinach or kale These sides complement the salmon's rich flavor and add color to your plate. You can tell salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should turn opaque and lose its raw look. The safe cooking temperature for salmon is 145°F (63°C). A food thermometer can help you check this. If you don’t have one, just remember to look for that flaky texture. Absolutely! You can adjust the garlic butter to fit your taste. Here are some ideas: - Add fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a new flavor. - Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. - Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus twist. - Try using olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! This blog post guides you in creating delicious garlic butter roasted salmon. We covered essential ingredients, oven preheating, and perfect cooking techniques. I shared tips on enhancing flavor and presentation. You can even customize the recipe to fit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for guests or meal prepping, this recipe shines. Enjoy the rich tastes and easy steps, knowing you'll impress everyone with your skills. With a few simple changes, you can make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor: This garlic butter roasted salmon is packed with flavor, thanks to the aromatic garlic and fresh parsley, making each bite irresistible.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.
  3. Healthy Dinner Option: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this dish a nutritious and satisfying meal choice.
  4. Versatile Presentation: This recipe allows for creative plating, whether on a bed of greens or alongside roasted vegetables, enhancing the dining experience.

Ingredients

To make garlic butter roasted salmon, you need the following items:

– 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

– 6 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

– Lemon wedges, for serving

– Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish flavorful and tasty. The salmon fillets are the star, providing a rich base. The unsalted butter and garlic create a creamy, aromatic sauce. Lemon juice adds brightness, while parsley gives color and freshness. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors. Lemon wedges serve as a perfect side, adding zesty notes to each bite. If you like, thyme sprigs bring a lovely touch of earthiness.

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. They will help you create a delicious meal that shines on any table.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat gives the salmon a nice crust. To save time on cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, the salmon won’t stick and the sheet stays clean.

Melting the Garlic Butter

Use a small saucepan to melt the butter. Keep the heat low. This gentle cooking lets the butter melt without burning. Once it melts, add the minced garlic. Cook for about two minutes. You want it to smell great, not brown. Brown garlic can taste bitter.

Preparing and Seasoning the Salmon

Now, take your salmon fillets. Place them skin-side down on the baking sheet. Make sure they have space around them. Next, use a brush to coat each fillet with the garlic butter mix. This adds amazing flavor. For extra taste, sprinkle more salt and pepper on top.

Baking the Salmon

Slide the baking sheet into the oven. Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by using a fork. The fish should flake easily. If it does, it’s ready to eat!

Serving Suggestions

Once the salmon is out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the salmon with lemon wedges on the side. Add fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely look. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Flavor

To make your garlic butter shine, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic gives a strong and rich aroma. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs will boost the flavor and scent of your dish. When adding lemon juice, use fresh juice. This will balance the rich butter and add a bright taste. Just a tablespoon can lift the dish up.

Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Salmon

For the best salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it is safe and moist. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork. If it starts to look white around the edges, it may be overdone. Keep a close eye on your salmon as it bakes.

Presentation Tips

Plating is key to a beautiful meal. Serve each salmon fillet on a bed of sautéed greens or colorful roasted vegetables. This adds color and nutrition. You can also arrange lemon wedges and thyme sprigs around the salmon. This creates a lovely and inviting look. These small touches can impress your guests and make the meal feel special.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor in your garlic butter mixture. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish significantly and enhance the overall taste.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch it closely. Remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork to maintain its moisture and tenderness.
  3. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist on the classic garlic butter flavor. It can personalize the dish to your taste preferences.
  4. Serve with Sides: Pair the salmon with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like quinoa for a well-rounded meal. This not only enhances the dining experience but also adds nutritional value.

Variations

Adding Different Herbs and Spices

You can change the herbs in this dish. Instead of parsley, try rosemary or dill. Both herbs add a nice flavor. Rosemary gives a warm, earthy taste. Dill has a fresh, bright flavor. Use what you like or have on hand. It’s fun to experiment!

Incorporating Other Ingredients

You can add vegetables for extra taste and nutrition. Consider using asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. These veggies roast well with salmon. Try adding chili flakes for a bit of heat. A touch of honey can add sweetness and depth. Mix and match to find your favorite combo.

Meal Prep Ideas

You can prepare salmon in advance for busy nights. Season and coat the fillets with the garlic butter. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze the salmon. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a quick meal.

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Salmon

To keep your leftover salmon fresh, use airtight containers. Place the salmon in a container. Cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain its flavor and texture. Consume the salmon within three days for the best taste.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, I recommend using the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just heat it on low power for 30-second intervals. Check often to avoid overcooking.

Freshness Tips

To tell if your salmon has gone bad, check for a few signs. Fresh salmon should smell like the ocean, not fishy. Look for a bright color and firm texture. If it feels slimy or has a dull color, it’s best to toss it. Always trust your senses; if it seems off, don’t eat it.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it first. Place the salmon in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. This method is quick and safe. Simply seal the salmon in a bag, then submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, you can follow the recipe as usual.

What side dishes pair well with garlic butter roasted salmon?

Garlic butter roasted salmon goes well with many sides. Here are some great options:

– Steamed asparagus or green beans

– Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes

– Garlic mashed potatoes

– Quinoa or brown rice

– Sautéed spinach or kale

These sides complement the salmon’s rich flavor and add color to your plate.

How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?

You can tell salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should turn opaque and lose its raw look. The safe cooking temperature for salmon is 145°F (63°C). A food thermometer can help you check this. If you don’t have one, just remember to look for that flaky texture.

Can I customize the garlic butter recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust the garlic butter to fit your taste. Here are some ideas:

– Add fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a new flavor.

– Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

– Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus twist.

– Try using olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.

Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

This blog post guides you in creating delicious garlic butter roasted salmon. We covered essential ingredients, oven preheating, and perfect cooking techniques. I shared tips on enhancing flavor and presentation. You can even customize the recipe to fit your taste.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or meal prepping, this recipe shines. Enjoy the rich tastes and easy steps, knowing you’ll impress everyone with your skills. With a few simple changes, you can make this dish your own. Happy cookin

To make garlic butter roasted salmon, you need the following items: - 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each) - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 6 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Lemon wedges, for serving - Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional) Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish flavorful and tasty. The salmon fillets are the star, providing a rich base. The unsalted butter and garlic create a creamy, aromatic sauce. Lemon juice adds brightness, while parsley gives color and freshness. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors. Lemon wedges serve as a perfect side, adding zesty notes to each bite. If you like, thyme sprigs bring a lovely touch of earthiness. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. They will help you create a delicious meal that shines on any table. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat gives the salmon a nice crust. To save time on cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, the salmon won’t stick and the sheet stays clean. Use a small saucepan to melt the butter. Keep the heat low. This gentle cooking lets the butter melt without burning. Once it melts, add the minced garlic. Cook for about two minutes. You want it to smell great, not brown. Brown garlic can taste bitter. Now, take your salmon fillets. Place them skin-side down on the baking sheet. Make sure they have space around them. Next, use a brush to coat each fillet with the garlic butter mix. This adds amazing flavor. For extra taste, sprinkle more salt and pepper on top. Slide the baking sheet into the oven. Bake the salmon for 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness by using a fork. The fish should flake easily. If it does, it’s ready to eat! Once the salmon is out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve the salmon with lemon wedges on the side. Add fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely look. Enjoy your delicious meal! To make your garlic butter shine, use fresh garlic. Fresh garlic gives a strong and rich aroma. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs will boost the flavor and scent of your dish. When adding lemon juice, use fresh juice. This will balance the rich butter and add a bright taste. Just a tablespoon can lift the dish up. For the best salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it is safe and moist. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough. Look for the fish to flake easily with a fork. If it starts to look white around the edges, it may be overdone. Keep a close eye on your salmon as it bakes. Plating is key to a beautiful meal. Serve each salmon fillet on a bed of sautéed greens or colorful roasted vegetables. This adds color and nutrition. You can also arrange lemon wedges and thyme sprigs around the salmon. This creates a lovely and inviting look. These small touches can impress your guests and make the meal feel special. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor in your garlic butter mixture. Fresh ingredients can elevate the dish significantly and enhance the overall taste. Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch it closely. Remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork to maintain its moisture and tenderness. Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist on the classic garlic butter flavor. It can personalize the dish to your taste preferences. Serve with Sides: Pair the salmon with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a grain like quinoa for a well-rounded meal. This not only enhances the dining experience but also adds nutritional value. {{image_4}} You can change the herbs in this dish. Instead of parsley, try rosemary or dill. Both herbs add a nice flavor. Rosemary gives a warm, earthy taste. Dill has a fresh, bright flavor. Use what you like or have on hand. It's fun to experiment! You can add vegetables for extra taste and nutrition. Consider using asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. These veggies roast well with salmon. Try adding chili flakes for a bit of heat. A touch of honey can add sweetness and depth. Mix and match to find your favorite combo. You can prepare salmon in advance for busy nights. Season and coat the fillets with the garlic butter. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze the salmon. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. When ready, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a quick meal. To keep your leftover salmon fresh, use airtight containers. Place the salmon in a container. Cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain its flavor and texture. Consume the salmon within three days for the best taste. For reheating, I recommend using the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave if you're in a hurry. Just heat it on low power for 30-second intervals. Check often to avoid overcooking. To tell if your salmon has gone bad, check for a few signs. Fresh salmon should smell like the ocean, not fishy. Look for a bright color and firm texture. If it feels slimy or has a dull color, it's best to toss it. Always trust your senses; if it seems off, don’t eat it. Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it first. Place the salmon in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method. This method is quick and safe. Simply seal the salmon in a bag, then submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, you can follow the recipe as usual. Garlic butter roasted salmon goes well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed asparagus or green beans - Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes - Garlic mashed potatoes - Quinoa or brown rice - Sautéed spinach or kale These sides complement the salmon's rich flavor and add color to your plate. You can tell salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should turn opaque and lose its raw look. The safe cooking temperature for salmon is 145°F (63°C). A food thermometer can help you check this. If you don’t have one, just remember to look for that flaky texture. Absolutely! You can adjust the garlic butter to fit your taste. Here are some ideas: - Add fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a new flavor. - Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. - Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a different citrus twist. - Try using olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! This blog post guides you in creating delicious garlic butter roasted salmon. We covered essential ingredients, oven preheating, and perfect cooking techniques. I shared tips on enhancing flavor and presentation. You can even customize the recipe to fit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for guests or meal prepping, this recipe shines. Enjoy the rich tastes and easy steps, knowing you'll impress everyone with your skills. With a few simple changes, you can make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

A delicious and easy recipe for salmon fillets roasted with garlic butter, lemon, and fresh herbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets salmon (approximately 6 oz each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • to taste salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • as needed lemon wedges, for serving
  • optional fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). For effortless cleanup later, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the finely minced garlic. Cook it gently for about 2 minutes, allowing it to release its aroma, but be careful not to let the garlic brown.
  • After the garlic is fragrant, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until combined.
  • Arrange the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are placed skin-side down. Generously brush each fillet with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.
  • Lightly sprinkle the salmon with additional salt and pepper to enhance its natural flavor. If you have any leftover garlic butter, drizzle it over the fillets for an extra layer of deliciousness.
  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The salmon is done when it easily flakes apart with a fork and reaches your preferred level of doneness.
  • Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the fillets with fresh lemon wedges on the side, and if desired, add a garnish of fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of elegance.

Notes

For an eye-catching display, plate each salmon fillet atop a bed of sautéed greens or roasted vegetables, and arrange the lemon wedges and thyme sprigs artfully beside the fish.
Keyword garlic butter, roasted, salmon, seafood

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