Garlic Butter Salmon
Garlic Butter Salmon is a fast, flavorful dish with perfectly pan-seared or baked salmon fillets coated in a rich, garlicky butter sauce. This restaurant-quality recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights, elegant dinners, or meal prep
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each, skin on or off
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice plus lemon slices for garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a kick
Instructions
- Season the salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until the bottom is crispy and golden. Flip and cook another 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Return salmon to pan: Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the salmon. Cook for 1–2 more minutes until heated through and glazed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve with rice, veggies, or a light salad
Notes
- Bake alternative: Place seasoned salmon on a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with melted garlic butter, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Use wild-caught salmon for richer flavor and firmer texture.