Indulge in the elegance of Lemon Butter Baked Salmon, an effortless dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners and sophisticated entertaining. The salmon is enveloped in a zesty lemon butter sauce with just the right touch of garlic and a burst of fresh lemon zest. This flavorful recipe is as simple to prepare as it is delicious, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
You’ll fall in love with this Lemon Butter Baked Salmon because it’s incredibly easy to make yet tastes like a gourmet dish. The combination of zesty lemon and rich butter perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon, making every bite a burst of flavor. Whether cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Salmon Fillet: The star of the dish, providing a rich and tender base.
- Butter: Adds a creamy, luxurious texture and flavor to the salmon.
- Lemon Juice and Lemon Zest: Brings a fresh, zesty brightness that elevates the dish.
- Garlic Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper: Enhances the flavors with a perfect balance of savory seasoning.
Serving Suggestions:
- Vegetable Pairing: Serve with steamed asparagus, green beans, or a vibrant garden salad.
- Starch Options: Accompany with roasted baby potatoes, quinoa, or light lemon-infused pasta.
- Perfect Meal: This dish combines rich butter with crisp lemon and garlic flavors for a quick, nutritious, and delicious dinner.
Storing Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Gently warm the salmon in the oven or microwave until just heated to maintain its tender texture.
- Enjoy Later: Your delicious Lemon Butter Baked Salmon is perfect for a quick and easy meal anytime!
Tips for Making the Best Lemon Butter Baked Salmon
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to mix well with the lemon juice and seasonings.
- Zest Before Juicing: Always zest your lemon before juicing to get the most out of the lemon.
- Don’t Overcook: Watch your salmon while it bakes to avoid overcooking; it should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the salmon rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
Variations
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to enhance the flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Garlic Lovers: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a bolder taste.
- No Oven? No Problem: You can cook the salmon on a stovetop in a covered skillet over medium heat or grill it wrapped in foil for a smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center. Overcooking can make it dry, so keep an eye on it while baking.
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before baking for the best results.
Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme and spices like paprika or red pepper flakes to add your own twist to the recipe.
Lemon Butter Baked Salmon
Ingredients
- 1 lb salmon fillet
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Start with a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, lemon zest, and black pepper until well combined.
Prep the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the salmon fillet skin-side down on the prepared pan.
- Brush the lemon butter mixture generously over the top and sides of the salmon fillet, ensuring it is evenly coated.
Bake the Salmon:
- Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillet.
Serve:
- Remove the salmon from the oven and transfer to a serving plate.
- Garnish with additional lemon slices and fresh herbs like dill or parsley for enhanced flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Vegetable Pairing: Serve this luscious Lemon Butter Baked Salmon with a side of steamed asparagus, green beans, or a vibrant garden salad to complete the meal.
- Starch Options: For a heartier dish, accompany the salmon with roasted baby potatoes, quinoa, or a light lemon-infused pasta.
