Why You'll Love It
- - Minimal prep, maximum flavor
- - Butter and garlic create a luscious glaze
- - Healthy omega‑3 packed fish
- - Perfect for busy weeknights
*"The butter‑garlic glaze is divine; my family devours it without a second thought!"*
Essential Ingredient Guide
- Salmon fillets: Choose wild‑caught if possible; bright pink flesh indicates freshness.
- Unsalted butter: Let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing with garlic.
- Fresh garlic: Minced finely so the flavor distributes evenly without overpowering.
- Lemon juice: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the butter’s richness.
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill): Finely chopped, they add a fragrant finish just before serving.
- Sea salt: A pinch enhances the natural brine of the salmon.
Complete Cooking Process
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Ingredient Readiness:
Pat the salmon dry, season lightly, and let the butter‑garlic mixture come to room temperature.
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Flavor Development:
While the oven preheats, the butter slowly releases garlic aroma, creating a fragrant base.
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Texture Control:
Baking at a moderate temperature ensures the flesh stays moist while the top caramelizes.
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Finishing Touches:
A splash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs add brightness right before serving.
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Serving Timing:
Serve immediately while the glaze is still glossy and the salmon is warm.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet to catch any buttery runoff.
- Avoid over‑cooking; salmon is done at 145°F (63°C).
- Let the fish rest two minutes before plating.
- Pair with a simple green salad for contrast.
Pro Tips
I often find that letting the salmon sit for a moment lets the juices redistribute, so each bite is tender. Yeah, it’s a tiny pause that makes a big difference. The buttery glaze also works well drizzled over roasted vegetables, so you get a cohesive plate without extra effort.
The essence of the dish:
A fun fact or historical angle:
Flavor or sensory focus:
You Must Know
- Do not overcrowd the pan; leave space for steam.
- Pat the fish dry to promote caramelization.
- Use parchment for easy cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, pat dry, and follow the same steps.
→ What side dishes pair best?
Steamed asparagus, quinoa, or a light arugula salad complement the richness.
→ How do I avoid over‑cooking?
Check the fish at 12 minutes; it should flake easily and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
→ Can I add herbs to the butter?
Absolutely—thyme or rosemary work beautifully; add them to the melted butter before brushing.
→ Is this recipe gluten‑free?
Yes, it contains only naturally gluten‑free ingredients.
→ How long can leftovers be stored?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently.
Chef's Tips
If you prefer a crispier top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.,For extra depth, melt the butter with a splash of white wine before adding garlic.,Feel free to pair this with cajun salmon for a spicier twist.
Nutrition Facts
per serving
420
Calories
38g
Protein
2g
Carbs
28g
Fat
Taste Profile
Rich buttery with bright garlic notes
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't have an ingredient? Try these alternatives
Adjust bake time slightly; thinner fillets may need 10 minutes total.
Will give a lighter flavor but less richness.
Recipe Variations
Try these delicious twists on the original
Spicy Version
Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a gentle heat.
Mediterranean Style
Stir chopped olives and sun‑dried tomatoes into the butter for a briny twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes for perfect results
- Overcooking the salmon, resulting in dry texture.
- Using cold butter, which creates lumps in the glaze.
- Crowding the pan, preventing caramelization.
Meal Prep & Storage
Make Ahead Tips
You can blend the garlic‑butter mixture up to 24 hours ahead; keep refrigerated and bring to room temperature before spreading.
Leftover Ideas
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a pat of butter to revive the glaze.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this with...
Cooking Timeline
Preheat oven, line baking sheet, and prepare butter‑garlic mixture.
Place salmon on sheet, spread butter mixture evenly.
Bake, monitor for flake‑ability, and finish with herbs.
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
A simple, comforting dinner that combines flaky salmon with a luxurious garlic butter glaze. Perfect for a quiet night in, this recipe needs just a handful of pantry staples and less than an hour from start to finish.
Timing
Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
Recipe Details
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 01 4 salmon fillets (6‑oz each)
- 02 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 03 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 04 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 05 1 tsp sea salt
- 06 ½ tsp black pepper
- 07 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Add‑Ons
- 01 Thin lemon slices for garnish
- 02 A drizzle of extra‑virgin olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment; this helps the butter stay glossy.
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Place the salmon fillets skin‑side down on the prepared sheet. Spoon the garlic‑butter mixture over each fillet, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 12‑15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Remove from oven, sprinkle fresh parsley and optional lemon slices, then let rest for two minutes before serving.
Notes & Tips
- 1 If you prefer a crispier top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.
- 2 For extra depth, melt the butter with a splash of white wine before adding garlic.
- 3 Feel free to pair this with cajun salmon for a spicier twist.
Tools You'll Need
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Oven
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Rimmed baking sheet
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Parchment paper
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Small mixing bowl
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Basting brush
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Measuring spoons
Must-Know Tips
- Do not overcrowd the pan, Cook in batches if needed to allow steam to escape.
- Let the butter soften at room temperature, Ensures smooth mixing with garlic.
- Taste the butter mixture before spreading, Adjust seasonings to your preference.
Professional Secrets
- Room temperature butter, Ensures even coating on the fish.
- Gentle oven heat, Keeps salmon moist while allowing butter to caramelize.
- Resting briefly after bake, Allows juices to redistribute for tenderness.
Recipe by
Sofia Marin“Dinner is where stories are shared and flavors shine. I craft comforting recipes perfect for family nights.” 🍷🍲
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