Sometimes, you just need a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Enter Garlic Butter Baked Salmon – a dish so rich and flavorful, it practically does the cha-cha on your taste buds. Imagine a perfectly baked salmon fillet glistening with buttery garlic goodness, enticing aromas wafting through the kitchen, and all of it comes together in mere minutes. Perfect for those nights when you want to impress without breaking a sweat, this is a dinner that says, “You’re awesome; enjoy!”
Picture this: it’s a Friday evening, and you’re staring blankly at the fridge, wondering where all your culinary creativity went. Suddenly, you remember this glorious Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe! It’s simple enough that you won’t need a culinary degree to pull it off but fancy enough to make your friends think you’ve been taking secret cooking classes. Whether it’s date night or just another Tuesday, this dish is here to elevate your dining experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon offers incredible flavor without the fuss; it comes together in minutes
- The vibrant colors and aromas create an irresistible visual appeal on any plate
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering
- Plus, it’s keto-friendly, making it perfect for those watching their carbs while still enjoying delicious seafood
I remember the first time I made Garlic Butter Baked Salmon for my family; their faces lit up like Christmas morning when they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is key; look for bright color and firm texture for the best results.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs a punch; don’t skimp on this aromatic superstar.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up flavors and adds zing.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill makes for a beautiful garnish and enhances flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate every ingredient into something magical.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even cooking while keeping your salmon moist and tender.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grab an oven-safe baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or a little olive oil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Melt the Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—this will fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas.
Add Lemon Juice & Seasoning: Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture brings everything together beautifully!
Arrange Salmon Fillets in Dish: Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the greased baking dish. Drizzle generously with the garlic butter mixture ensuring each piece is luxuriously coated.
Bake Until Flaky & Delicious: Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when it looks beautifully golden brown!
Now you have a delightful Garlic Butter Baked Salmon that not only tastes amazing but also feels like you’re treating yourself to something special—even if it’s just another Wednesday night! Enjoy paired with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for extra crunch!
You Must Know
- You can achieve restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Baked Salmon at home
- This dish is not only keto-friendly but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, promising deliciousness with every bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, melt the garlic butter mixture to infuse flavors before pouring it over the salmon. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the garlic for fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a different flavor profile. You can also add lemon slices on top for a zesty twist that brightens up the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain its juicy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh salmon for better flavor and texture; frozen may lack the same quality
- Always let the salmon rest after cooking for a few minutes, enhancing its juiciness
- Pair it with seasonal veggies for a colorful and nutritious meal
The first time I made Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, my friends couldn’t believe how easy it was! Their compliments were so enthusiastic that I felt like a culinary superstar—just from baking fish!
FAQ
How long does Garlic Butter Baked Salmon take to cook?
Cooking this salmon typically takes about 15-20 minutes in a preheated oven.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh salmon yields better flavor and texture overall.
What side dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully and enhance your meal’s healthiness.
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and ease of preparation. This dish features succulent salmon fillets baked to perfection in a luscious garlic butter sauce, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can impress family or guests any night of the week. Enjoy this keto-friendly delight alongside your favorite veggies or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an oven-safe baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the baking dish and drizzle with the garlic butter mixture.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 367
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 586mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 112mg
