Easy Garlic Butter Salmon

Name: Easy Garlic Butter Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 salmon fillets; Olive oil; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Prepare a flavorful and healthy dinner with this Easy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe. This dish features tender salmon fillets bathed in a rich garlic and buttery sauce, offering a quick yet exquisite way to enjoy seafood any day of the week. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this salmon is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T03:40:34.022Z

This Easy Garlic Butter Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. The garlic and butter together create a heavenly flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.

A Flavorful Experience

This Easy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is designed to elevate your dining experience with minimal effort. The garlic-infused butter not only enhances the taste of the salmon but also adds an aromatic quality that fills your kitchen with irresistible scents. This simple yet elegant dish showcases how a few quality ingredients can create a gourmet meal with rich flavors.

Pairing salmon with garlic and butter is a classic combination that never disappoints. The creaminess of the butter melds perfectly with the rich, buttery texture of the salmon, creating a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this meal is bound to impress.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is not just a delicious choice but also a nutritious powerhouse. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. Regular consumption of salmon can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases, making it an excellent addition to your meal rotation.

Moreover, salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing the building blocks your body needs to maintain muscle mass and support overall health. Combining these health benefits with the delightful taste of garlic and butter transforms dinner into not only a treat for your taste buds but also a boon for your well-being.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a busy weeknight or a special celebration, this Easy Garlic Butter Salmon recipe can adapt to your needs effortlessly. The quick preparation and cooking time make it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without compromising on flavor.

Presentation is key, and serving this dish with lemon wedges not only adds a pop of color but also a zesty brightness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. It’s a fantastic dish to serve during gatherings, as it pairs well with various sides, allowing for a customizable dining experience.

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Salmon

4 salmon fillets
Olive oil
Lemon wedges for serving

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Steps

Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Place the salmon skin side down in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until fully cooked.

Serve

Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets while serving and enjoy with lemon wedges on the side.

This meal pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or rice.

Serving Suggestions

To make the most out of your Easy Garlic Butter Salmon, consider pairing it with seasonal vegetables such as steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides complement the richness of the salmon while adding vibrant color to your plate. A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing balance to the meal.

For those looking for a heartier option, serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. The garlic butter sauce can drizzle over these sides, enhancing their flavor and making each bite a delight.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra garlic butter to keep it moist and flavorful. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the fish and affect its texture.

Alternatively, consider transforming the leftover salmon into a delicious salad or a sandwich. Flake the salmon and mix it with some yogurt or mayonnaise, and add fresh veggies for a quick and nutritious meal on the go.

Variations to Try

Get creative with this recipe by trying out different flavors. Incorporating ingredients like lemon zest, honey, or Dijon mustard into the garlic butter sauce can add a unique twist that enhances the overall dish. Experimenting with herbs such as thyme or dill can also freshen it up and create different profiles to suit your taste.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can swap the salmon with other fatty fish like trout or mackerel, which are just as lovely when prepared in this manner. Each variation offers a new take on this beloved recipe while maintaining its core appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What sides go well with this salmon?

Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad are great choices.