Garlic Butter Salmon

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a treat, look no further than this Garlic Butter Salmon! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines simple ingredients to create something truly special. The salmon fillets are perfectly golden and drenched in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will have everyone raving!

What I love most about Garlic Butter Salmon is how easy it is to whip up. You can have it ready in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you need something satisfying without all the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a gourmet meal on the table in no time!
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates an unforgettable sauce that pairs perfectly with salmon.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves salmon, and this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Dinner Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with veggies, or alongside your favorite salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! These are all simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create that amazing garlic butter sauce we all crave.

For the Salmon

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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 to serve)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try this recipe with chicken breast or shrimp for a different take on the same flavor profile!
• Add some heat: If you enjoy spicy food, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to kick up the flavor.
• Incorporate veggies: Add fresh asparagus or broccoli to the pan while cooking for added color and nutrition.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with dill or thyme instead of parsley for a unique twist on the sauce.

How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon

Step 1: Coat the Salmon

In a large shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture helps create that beautiful golden crust on each salmon fillet as they cook. Make sure to coat each piece evenly before setting them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the salmon fillets and fry for around 3 minutes until golden brown on one side. Flipping them gently ensures they don’t break apart. After another 2 minutes on the other side, add in one tablespoon of butter and baste each fillet until they’re nearly cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add finely diced garlic into the pan. Sautéing it until it turns light golden releases its aroma without burning it—burnt garlic can spoil everything! Pour in vegetable stock while scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Then whisk in the remaining butter until it blends beautifully with the stock.

Step 4: Finish Cooking & Serve

Let that luscious sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Carefully return your salmon fillets back into the pan and baste them with that incredible sauce to warm through. Just before serving, add a squeeze of lemon juice over everything for brightness!

And there you have it—delicious Garlic Butter Salmon ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Salmon

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your Garlic Butter Salmon to perfection!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly diced garlic releases more flavor than pre-minced varieties. This will ensure your sauce is aromatic and vibrant.
• Pat the salmon dry: Before coating the fillets with flour, make sure to pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that beautiful golden crust when frying.
• Monitor the heat: If your pan is too hot, the garlic can burn quickly. Keep an eye on it and adjust the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle sizzle.
• Baste generously: When adding the salmon back into the sauce, baste it well. This not only keeps everything moist but also lets those delicious flavors seep into the fish.
• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, feel free to add other fresh herbs like dill or chives for a different twist in flavor.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Salmon

Presenting your Garlic Butter Salmon beautifully can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some ideas to impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness that complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce perfectly.
• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling extra parsley or dill on top just before serving adds color and freshness to your dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Asparagus: The crispness of asparagus pairs nicely with salmon, bringing a hint of earthiness that balances the buttery flavors.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that enhances the overall meal experience.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil offers a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots and bell peppers add sweetness and texture, making for a vibrant plate alongside your salmon.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only make delicious Garlic Butter Salmon but also create an inviting dining experience that everyone will love! Enjoy your culinary journey!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, healthy dinner even on the busiest of nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• To retain its flavor and texture, avoid stacking the fillets on top of each other.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the salmon in a non-stick pan over low heat with a splash of vegetable stock or water to keep it moist.
• Cover with a lid and heat gently until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use olive oil instead of butter for Garlic Butter Salmon?

While butter adds a rich flavor, you can substitute with olive oil. However, this may alter the taste and creaminess of the sauce slightly.

What’s the best way to serve Garlic Butter Salmon?

Serve your Garlic Butter Salmon fillets garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges alongside steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice. Enjoy every bite!

How do I make Garlic Butter Salmon healthier?

To make this dish even healthier, consider using less butter and increasing the amount of fresh herbs or spices. You could also pair the salmon with more veggies!

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure that it’s fully thawed before cooking. Frozen salmon can still taste wonderful when prepared correctly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Garlic Butter Salmon recipe! It’s an incredible way to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table while keeping things simple. Enjoy preparing this dish and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!