Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy dinner, Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is the perfect choice. This dish brings together the richness of butter, the sharpness of garlic, and the tenderness of oven-baked salmon for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
  • Nutritious: High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples
  • Deliciously Juicy: Garlic butter keeps the salmon moist and flavorful

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or lemon slices for garnish

How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Prepare the salmon: Place fillets on a lined baking tray or in a baking dish. Brush generously with the garlic butter mixture.
  4. Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh parsley or lemon slices and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use fresh salmon for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the fish – check doneness with a fork.
  • Pair with steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a weeknight hero that feels like a gourmet meal. It’s satisfying, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

FAQ

Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to ensure even cooking and best flavor.

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and slightly firm.

You can prepare the garlic butter and marinate the salmon in advance, but it’s best to bake it fresh for ideal texture and moisture.

Great side options include:

A fresh garden salad

Roasted vegetables

Mashed potatoes

Steamed rice or quinoa

Yes, you can use olive oil for a lighter version, but butter adds a rich and savory flavor that makes the dish more indulgent.

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