Garlic Butter Salmon

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a restaurant dish, you’ve come to the right place! This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is one of my all-time favorites. The salmon fillets are perfectly seared and smothered in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish shines on every occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can have it on the table in just 25 minutes! Plus, the flavors are bold yet comforting—great for impressing guests or enjoying a relaxing evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that enhances the salmon’s natural taste.
• Family-friendly: This dish appeals to kids and adults alike—everyone loves buttery garlic goodness!
• Healthy choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salmon dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Versatile serving options: Pair it with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this Garlic Butter Salmon. Each item brings its own charm to the dish, making it flavorful without any fuss!

• 4x boneless skinless Salmon Fillets
• 40g / 1/4 cup Plain Flour
• 1 tsp EACH: Garlic Powder, Salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 6 tbsp / 90g / 3.2oz Unsalted Butter (divided into tbsp chunks)
• 2 cloves of Garlic (finely diced)
• 120ml / 1/2 cup Vegetable Stock
• 1 tbsp finely diced Fresh Parsley
• 1 Lemon (divided into 4 wedges for serving)

Variations

This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or shrimp instead of salmon for a different twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes when you add the garlic for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat if you enjoy spicy food.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with dill or basil instead of parsley for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

In a large shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This coating not only adds flavor but also helps create that golden crust we all love. Coat each salmon fillet well, giving them a shake before setting them aside.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your coated salmon fillets. Searing them for around three minutes will give them that beautiful golden crust on one side. Flip them carefully and fry for another two minutes until golden brown on the other side. Adding in a tablespoon of butter during this process allows you to baste the fillets and ensures they’re juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Remove the cooked salmon from the pan and reduce your heat to medium. Add finely diced garlic into the same pan; sautéing it just until it begins to color is key—this brings out its sweetness without letting it burn. Pour in vegetable stock while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Then whisk in the remaining butter until everything comes together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Let your sauce simmer for a few minutes until thickened slightly. Lower your heat and add back those gorgeous salmon fillets into the sauce, basting them gently to warm through. Serve immediately with more sauce drizzled on top and lemon wedges on the side—the perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Garlic Butter Salmon—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Salmon

Cooking salmon to perfection can be a breeze with just a few expert tips. Here are some easy ways to enhance your Garlic Butter Salmon experience:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly compared to dried alternatives. Fresh ingredients bring vibrant and aromatic qualities that are essential in this dish.

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon – Salmon continues to cook even after you remove it from the heat, so aim for a slightly undercooked center. This ensures that it remains tender and moist when served.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – The beauty of cooking is making it your own! Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper levels based on your preference or experiment with other spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.

• Use a Heavy Pan – A heavy non-stick pan retains heat better and provides an even cooking surface, which helps achieve that beautiful golden crust without burning.

• Baste Generously – While the salmon is warming in the sauce, spooning the rich garlic butter over the fillets helps infuse flavor fully and ensures you get every drop of that delicious sauce!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Salmon

Serving Garlic Butter Salmon is just as delightful as preparing it! Create an inviting plate that showcases this flavorful dish, and consider these ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh herbaceous note that complements the richness of the salmon.
• Lemon Zest – Grating a bit of lemon zest over the top before serving adds an aromatic citrus flair and enhances brightness in each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the buttery sauce perfectly, offering a hearty base for your meal.
• Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a vibrant green touch while providing a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with salmon.
• Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette brings a healthy option full of flavors and textures.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting Brussels sprouts until crispy brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delightful contrast alongside the rich garlic butter salmon.

With these presentation ideas and tips, your Garlic Butter Salmon will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It can be easily made in advance, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon to cool completely before storing.
• Place the fillets in an airtight container and cover with any remaining sauce.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each salmon fillet individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best quality, consider freezing without sauce.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power for short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Butter Salmon:

Can I use frozen salmon for this Garlic Butter Salmon recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen salmon fillets. Just ensure they are fully thawed before you start cooking for even cooking and better flavor absorption.

What can I substitute for butter in this Garlic Butter Salmon dish?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute olive oil or vegan butter. Both alternatives will provide great flavor while keeping the dish light and delicious.

How do I know when garlic is cooked properly in this recipe?

When sautéing garlic, it’s important to cook it just until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. This typically takes about 30 seconds to 1 minute; be careful not to burn it!

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Salmon?

Garlic Butter Salmon pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or quinoa. A fresh salad also complements the richness of the salmon beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Butter Salmon as much as I do! It’s not only simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!