Garlic Butter Baked Salmon (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Garlic Butter Salmon
01 -
4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
02 -
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
05 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
06 -
1 teaspoon salt
07 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
08 -
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
→ For Garnish and Sides
09 -
Lemon slices, for garnish
10 -
Fresh green beans or asparagus (optional side)
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it's warming up, line a baking dish with parchment paper or give it a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures your salmon will cook evenly and be easy to serve later.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine your melted butter, freshly minced garlic, chopped parsley, tangy lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Stir everything together until well mixed. This aromatic sauce will infuse your salmon with incredible flavor as it bakes.
03 -
Place your salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish, giving them a bit of space between each piece. If you're including vegetables, arrange fresh green beans or asparagus around the salmon for a complete one-pan meal. The vegetables will roast alongside the fish, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
04 -
Take your time brushing the garlic butter mixture generously over each salmon fillet. Make sure to coat them thoroughly, allowing some sauce to drip down the sides. This step is key to developing that mouthwatering garlic butter flavor that makes this dish so special.
05 -
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You'll know your salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes.
06 -
Once cooked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and add your finishing touches. Sprinkle with additional fresh chopped parsley and arrange lemon slices on top or around the salmon for a beautiful presentation. The heat from the salmon will release the aromatic oils from the fresh herbs and lemon, adding a wonderful fragrance to the dish.
# Notes:
01 -
This garlic butter baked salmon is a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner option that feels elegant enough for special occasions.
02 -
For best results, bring your salmon fillets to room temperature before baking.
03 -
This recipe serves about 4 people and can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.