Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your dinner with this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe, featuring tender salmon fillets seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, and brightened with fresh lemon juice. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic option for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete, mouthwatering experience.

Paige Sullivan

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-11-27T16:38:17.870Z

This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the bright tang of lemon, making it a standout dish for seafood lovers.

The Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is not only a delicious choice for dinner, but it is also incredibly nutritious. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it has been shown to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote brain function. Including salmon in your diet can also improve your skin's health and help maintain muscle mass due to its high protein content. Enjoying this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon can make your meals not only tasty but also incredibly beneficial to your overall well-being.

Moreover, salmon is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. It provides a substantial amount of B vitamins, including B12, which is crucial for energy production and proper nerve function. Additionally, salmon contains selenium, an antioxidant that supports the immune system. By cooking this dish, you’re choosing a food that’s both satisfying and health-promoting for you and your family.

Perfect Pairings for Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

When serving Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon, consider pairing it with seasonal vegetables to enhance the meal. Roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a vibrant salad will complement the rich flavors of the salmon while adding a refreshing touch. The textures and colors of these sides will not only look appealing on your plate but also contribute valuable nutrients to your meal.

For those who love a hearty side, creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa pilaf can work wonderfully. They provide a perfect base to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, ensuring you won’t miss out on any flavors. The combination of salmon with these sides creates a well-rounded dinner that satisfies both the appetite and the palate.

Tips for Cooking Salmon Perfectly Every Time

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Cook the Salmon

Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Add Lemon Juice

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the salmon in the skillet during the last minute of cooking.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Special Occasions Made Simple

Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering, Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon is an excellent choice. Its elegance and simplicity make it a showstopper without requiring hours in the kitchen. You can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and cook the salmon to order, ensuring everything is fresh and warm when served.

If you're planning a special occasion, consider creating a multi-course meal around your salmon. Start with a light appetizer, such as a seafood salad, followed by the star of the show, and finish with a refreshing lemon sorbet as dessert. This approach will showcase your cooking skills while keeping your guests delighted and satisfied.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. You can experiment with different herbs, like dill, thyme, or even a touch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Adding these variations will not only enhance flavor but can also introduce exciting aromas to your kitchen during cooking.

If you prefer a healthier approach, consider baking the salmon in the oven instead of pan-searing. Simply wrap the seasoned fillets in aluminum foil with the garlic butter sauce and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes. This method locks in moisture and creates a flavorful steam environment for the salmon.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

It pairs nicely with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Elevate your dinner with this Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon recipe, featuring tender salmon fillets seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, and brightened with fresh lemon juice. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a fantastic option for weeknight meals or special occasions alike. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete, mouthwatering experience.

Prep Time10.0
Cooking Duration15.0
Overall Time25.0

Created by: Paige Sullivan

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4.0

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

  1. 4 salmon fillets
  2. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. Juice of 1 lemon
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. Chopped parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 02

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 03

Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Step 04

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the salmon in the skillet during the last minute of cooking.

Step 05

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g