Garlic Butter Baked Salmon: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon: A Culinary Delight

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a dish that never fails to impress. The moment you take a bite, the rich, buttery flavor combined with the aromatic garlic creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table.

Historically, salmon has been a staple in various cultures, particularly among coastal communities where fishing was a way of life. The combination of garlic and butter has roots in many culinary traditions, enhancing the natural flavors of seafood. This dish embodies the essence of simplicity and elegance, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions.

People love Garlic Butter Baked Salmon for its incredible taste and texture. The salmon fillet becomes tender and flaky, while the garlic butter sauce adds a luscious richness that elevates the dish. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that showcases the beauty of Garlic Butter Baked Salmon!

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Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Marinade

Before we dive into cooking, let’s prepare the delicious garlic butter marinade that will infuse our salmon with flavor.

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter.
2. Add the chopped parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and a pinch of pepper, but feel free to adjust according to your preference.

Preparing the Salmon

Now that our marinade is ready, let’s prepare the salmon fillets.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the salmon evenly.
2. While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Make sure they are spaced out evenly.
4. Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat each salmon fillet with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to cover the top and sides of the fillets for maximum flavor.
5. Let the salmon marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish.

Baking the Salmon

With the salmon marinated, it’s time to bake it to perfection.

1. Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, place the baking sheet in the oven.
2. Bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. A general rule of thumb is to bake for 4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
3. To check for doneness, use a fork to gently flake the salmon at the thickest part. It should be opaque and easily flake apart. If it’s still translucent, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
4. For an extra touch, you can broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will give the top a beautiful golden color and a slight crispiness.

Serving the Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Now that our salmon is beautifully baked, let’s get it ready to serve.

1. Once the salmon is done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the fish.
2. Transfer the salmon fillets to a serving platter. You can use a spatula to lift them gently, ensuring they don’t break apart.
3. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the baking sheet over the salmon for added flavor.
4. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Serve the garlic butter baked salmon with your choice of sides. It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Here are some tips to ensure your garlic butter baked salmon turns out perfectly every time:

• Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets will yield the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are bright in color and have a clean smell.
• Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly if overcooked. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, and use a meat thermometer if you have one. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
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  Conclusion:

  If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and health benefits, then this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe is an absolute must-try! The rich, buttery garlic sauce perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon, creating a meal that is not only delicious but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids. This recipe is a fantastic way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

  For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this delightful salmon with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. The vibrant colors and textures of the veggies will not only enhance the visual appeal of your plate but also add a nutritious balance to your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier option. You can also drizzle some extra garlic butter sauce over the sides to tie everything together beautifully.

  If you want to switch things up, there are plenty of variations you can try with this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe. For a zesty twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest before baking. You could also experiment with different herbs, such as dill or parsley, to give it a unique flavor profile. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. The versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

  I encourage you to give this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon a try and experience the incredible flavors for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? How did your family or friends react? Sharing your culinary adventures not only inspires others but also helps build a community of food lovers who appreciate the joy of cooking. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! You won’t regret it, and I can’t wait to see how your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon turns out!

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  Garlic Butter Baked Salmon: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

  This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon features tender salmon fillets marinated in a rich garlic butter sauce, baked to perfection for a healthy and flavorful meal. It's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon for added brightness.

  Prep Time20 minutes

  Cook Time20 minutes

  Total Time40 minutes

  Category: Quick Dinner

  Yield: 4 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

  Instructions

  1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Stir well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter.
  2. Add the chopped parsley, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
  3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and a pinch of pepper, adjusting according to your preference.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  6. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down, spaced out evenly.
  7. Generously coat each salmon fillet with the garlic butter mixture using a brush or spoon, covering the top and sides.
  8. Let the salmon marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
  9. Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, place the baking sheet in the oven.
  10. Bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets (4-6 minutes per half-inch of thickness).
  11. Check for doneness by gently flaking the salmon at the thickest part; it should be opaque and easily flake apart. If still translucent, bake for a few more minutes.
  12. For an extra touch, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes for a golden color and slight crispiness.
  13. Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
  14. Transfer the salmon fillets to a serving platter using a spatula.
  15. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the baking sheet over the salmon.
  16. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional chopped parsley.
  17. Serve with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

  Notes

  • Choose fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
  • Avoid overcooking; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  • Feel free to adjust the seasoning and garnishes to your taste.