Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon

In the quest for a meal that balances health, taste, and elegance, seafood often emerges as the champion. Among the plethora of dishes, Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon stands out, offering a harmonious blend of zesty lemon, rich butter, and aromatic garlic, all enhancing the delicate flavor of salmon. This recipe is a testament to simplicity meeting sophistication, perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for your dinner parties. Let’s dive into how you can bring this culinary delight to your table.

Ingredients Overview

Before we begin, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is split into two main components: the salmon and the lemon butter garlic sauce.

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: We need 5 skinless fillets, each weighing about 150 g or 5 oz. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.
• Fresh Ingredients: You’ll need freshly squeezed lemon juice and minced garlic, bringing vibrancy and depth to the dish.
• Seasonings: Old style Dijon mustard, ground black pepper, and salt will enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
• Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil helps to bind the marinade and adds a hint of richness.

For the Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce:

• Butter and Cream: The sauce is built on a base of unsalted butter and heavy cream (or half and half), creating a luxurious texture.
• More Lemon and Garlic: Additional lemon juice and minced garlic amplify the tangy and aromatic profile of the sauce.
• Finishing Touches: Finely chopped parsley adds a fresh pop of color and taste, while ground black pepper and salt season the sauce to perfection.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F /220°C. This high temperature ensures the salmon cooks quickly, remaining moist and tender inside.
2. Marinate the Salmon: In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Lay the salmon fillets in a skillet and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is well-coated, then season with black pepper and salt. The marinade not only flavors the salmon but also helps to keep it juicy.
3. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. You’re aiming for salmon that flakes easily but is still moist.
4. Prepare the Sauce: While the salmon bakes, melt butter in a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the cream and bring to a boil, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from the heat, then stir in lemon juice, parsley, and seasonings.
5. Serve: Once the salmon is baked, plate it, and generously pour the lemon butter garlic sauce over. Allow it to rest for a few minutes so the fish can absorb the sauce’s flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon recipe, ready in just 40 minutes, serves up a luxurious meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. With a balance of 350 kcal per serving, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that promises to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the sublime flavors of the sea, enhanced with the classic combination of lemon, butter, and garlic.

Print