Garlic butter baked salmon is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug after a long day. Imagine the rich, buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen as the salmon bakes to flaky perfection. With each bite, you experience the delightful balance of savory garlic and tender fish, making it an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
This dish brings back memories of family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, eagerly anticipating the first taste. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, garlic butter baked salmon creates an atmosphere filled with laughter and delicious flavors. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Garlic butter baked salmon is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors will impress your guests while requiring minimal effort
- Its stunning presentation brightens any dinner table, making it visually appealing and inviting
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides, this dish fits perfectly into any meal plan
I remember serving this dish at a family gathering and watching my cousin devour three pieces in one sitting—his enthusiastic approval was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Salmon Fillets: Fresh, skin-on fillets are ideal for moisture retention and flavor enhancement during baking.
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Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted to control the seasoning; it melts beautifully and enhances the garlic flavor.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for optimal flavor; nothing beats the aroma of freshly minced garlic.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; it adds a refreshing zing that complements the salmon perfectly.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also provides a fresh herbal note that balances richness.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust to your taste for the best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that lovely golden crust on your salmon.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless after enjoying your meal.
Make Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The combination creates a luxurious sauce that will infuse the fish with flavor as it bakes.
Coat The Salmon Fillets: Place your salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish skin-side down. Generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture until fully coated—don’t be shy; we want every bite dripping with flavor!
Bake Your Salmon : Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking; you want moist and tender fish!
Add Finishing Touches: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides—it’s time to dig in!
You Must Know
- This garlic butter baked salmon recipe is not just quick; it’s bursting with flavor
- The buttery aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a gourmet restaurant
- Plus, it’s keto-friendly, so you can indulge guilt-free while enjoying a delightful seafood dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect garlic butter baked salmon, preheat your oven to 400°F. Start by melting the garlic butter in a skillet, then pour it over the salmon before baking. This method ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness. You can also swap out the salmon for other fish types, such as trout or tilapia, depending on your preference.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to maintain its moistness and flavor without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that mouthwatering glaze, baste the salmon halfway through cooking
- Always check for doneness with a fork; it should flake easily
- Don’t be shy with seasoning; your taste buds will thank you!
Cooking this garlic butter baked salmon always takes me back to family gatherings where everyone would rush to snag a plate before it’s gone! The laughter and compliments made those moments unforgettable.
FAQ
What side dishes pair well with garlic butter baked salmon?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement the dish beautifully, adding color and nutrition.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
How do I know when my salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done; internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Garlic butter baked salmon is a deliciously simple dish that envelops your taste buds in savory flavors. The combination of rich butter and aromatic garlic enhances the natural taste of fresh salmon, making it perfect for both casual weeknight meals and special occasions. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees flaky, tender fish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish and coat generously with the garlic butter mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
