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HomeEasy MealsEasy Healthy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Easy Healthy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

The moment you walk into your kitchen and catch the whiff of Healthy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce, it’s like an aromatic invitation to paradise. Imagine this: flaky salmon fillets swimming in a luscious lemon butter sauce that glimmers under the kitchen lights, practically begging to be devoured. The citrusy zing dances on your taste buds while the buttery richness wraps around the salmon like a warm hug, creating a flavor explosion.

Now picture this dish gracing your dinner table during a cozy family gathering or maybe a romantic date night at home. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day. Trust me; one bite will have you reminiscing about sun-drenched beaches and balmy summer evenings, even if you’re just in your home apron.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Healthy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that can elevate any meal
  • The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for special occasions
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or fancy gatherings!

I remember surprising my friends with this dish one evening, and their delighted reactions were priceless. Who knew healthy could taste this divine?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Salmon Fillets: Opt for fresh, wild-caught salmon to ensure maximum flavor and health benefits.

  • Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.

  • Fresh Lemons: Choose juicy lemons to create that zesty flavor; their freshness makes all the difference.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce its aromatic kick; avoid powdered garlic here.

  • Fresh Herbs (like parsley or dill): They add a pop of color and elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a baking sheet lined with parchment paper nearby so you’re ready to go. Remember, timing is everything when it comes to cooking fish!

Prepare the Salmon: Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides; don’t skimp here!

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until it bubbles gently. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.

Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the melted butter mixture, stirring well. Toss in chopped herbs for an added burst of color and flavor.

Bake the Salmon: Place seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet skin-side down. Drizzle half of the lemon butter sauce over each fillet before placing it in the oven.

Bake Until Flaky: Allow salmon to bake for 15-20 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork. The aroma will fill your kitchen — trust me, you’ll want to keep checking!

Enjoy every moment as you plate up this delightful dish! Don’t forget to drizzle some remaining lemon butter sauce on top before serving; it’s like icing on the cake — if cakes were made of fish!

You Must Know

  • This healthy baked salmon with lemon butter sauce is not just a dish; it’s a culinary hug on a plate
  • The aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone wonder what magic you’ve conjured up
  • Pair it with veggies or rice for a meal that dances on your taste buds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Season the salmon fillets, then prepare the lemon butter sauce while the salmon bakes for 15-20 minutes.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in other herbs like dill or parsley. Add crushed garlic for an extra flavor kick, or toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to avoid drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect salmon, make sure it’s room temperature before baking
  • A touch of honey can balance the acidity of lemon beautifully
  • Don’t skip resting time after baking; it enhances flavors and moisture

Cooking this healthy baked salmon with lemon butter sauce always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone devoured every bite, leaving nothing behind—a true testament to its deliciousness.

FAQs

FAQ

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw it completely before seasoning and baking for even cooking.

What sides pair well with baked salmon?

Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad make great companions for this dish.

Print
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Healthy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce


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  • Author: Maria Del
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2

Description

Healthy Baked Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that transforms a simple meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. With flaky, wild-caught salmon fillets enveloped in a zesty lemon butter sauce, this recipe is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavors. Perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners, each bite will transport you to sunlit beaches. Impress your family and friends with this healthy yet indulgent dish that can be paired beautifully with your favorite sides.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6 oz) salmon fillets
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 fresh lemons (juiced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or dill, chopped)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Rinse salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  4. Stir in lemon juice and chopped herbs.
  5. Place salmon on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle half of the lemon butter sauce over each fillet.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Drizzle remaining sauce on top before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Maria Del
Maria Del
Marie Del is a passionate home cook and food lover who believes that the best meals come from the heart. At 38 years old, she has spent years perfecting family recipes, experimenting with new flavors, and sharing her love for cooking with friends and followers.
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