Garlic Butter Baked Salmon: A Flavorful Feast
Are you in the mood for a meal that combines simplicity with rich, savory flavor? Look no further than this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon! This dish is not only a culinary delight but is remarkably easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. What’s more, salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, so you can feel good about enjoying it! Did you know that salmon has been considered a delicacy across cultures for centuries? It’s true! The combination of tender, flaky salmon fillets bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce is an experience you won’t want to miss.
If you’ve enjoyed creating classic chicken dishes from our blog, rest assured this salmon recipe will have you hooked as well! With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a bake time of around 20 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time. Get excited because this dish is bound to become a regular in your household!
What is Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?
So, what exactly is Garlic Butter Baked Salmon? Well, I like to think of it as the epitome of “quick gourmet.” You take beautiful, fresh salmon fillets and lavish them with a garlicky butter mixture that elevates them to delicious new heights. But why garlic butter, you ask? Honestly, who could say no to the aromatic fusion of garlic and butter? It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! You’ll find that this dish is pleasing not just to the palate, but also to your kitchen’s ambiance (hello, savory smells!). Remember the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Well, I’d say a woman’s heart might just be won over with this dish as well! Why not dive in and make this delectable meal for yourself?
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
There are countless reasons to love Garlic Butter Baked Salmon. First and foremost, the star of this show is the salmon itself—perfectly flaky with a buttery, savory essence. The freshness of the fish combined with the rich flavor of garlic butter creates an unforgettable dining experience. Secondly, making this recipe at home can save you money compared to ordering from a fancy restaurant! Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of knowing you made it from scratch.
But wait, there’s more! It’s customizable too. You could add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for those who like a bit of heat. Much like our delightful Garlic Lemon Pasta, this salmon dish also shines with straightforward and flavorful ingredients. If you’re intrigued, scroll down and try making this easy recipe for yourself!
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Quick Overview
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is an effortlessly delightful dish that’s easy to whip up and bursting with flavor. The magic lies in the simple garlic butter sauce that enhances the fish’s natural taste, making it impossible to resist. With just a 15-minute prep time and a straightforward recipe, dinner will practically make itself!
Key Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to create this sumptuous dish:
- 4 salmon fillets (skinless, if desired)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, if available)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your salmon cooks quickly and evenly.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on a lightly greased baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper.
- Baste the Fillets: Pour the garlic butter sauce generously over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with lemon slices if you desire, and serve warm. You can also drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top for extra flavor!
What to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Salmon With
Pairing your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Consider serving it alongside fluffy quinoa, sautéed asparagus, or a refreshing side salad with a light vinaigrette. A glass of white wine, like a chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, perfectly complements the dish. Get creative and make it a complete meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Top Tips for Perfecting Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Always opt for the freshest salmon you can find—it makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly; be sure to keep an eye on it as it bakes. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the garlic butter by adding fresh herbs like dill or basil, or spices like paprika for a kick.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re not sure about cooking times, using a meat thermometer can help you avoid overcooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which can be a rarity), make sure to store your Garlic Butter Baked Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months. To enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned!
Now, with this comprehensive guide to making Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, you’re all set for culinary adventure! Don’t miss out on this delightful dish—grab the ingredients and get cooking today! Happy baking!
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Place the salmon fillets on a lightly greased baking dish and season them with salt and pepper.
- Pour the garlic butter sauce generously over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with lemon slices if desired, and serve warm. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top for extra flavor.
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