Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is an easy oven-baked dinner that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavor. Tender salmon fillets are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon juice and herbs, then baked until perfectly flaky. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a healthy, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Fresh dill
- Lemon slices
- Chopped chives
- Extra cracked black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them skin-side down in the baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the lemon garlic butter mixture generously over each salmon fillet.
- Place a few lemon slices on top of the salmon if desired.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
- For a lightly golden finish, broil the salmon for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Spoon the remaining butter sauce from the baking dish over the salmon.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or chives and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Fresh salmon provides the best flavor, but frozen salmon works well once completely thawed.
- Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to help the butter sauce adhere better.
- Fresh lemon juice and lemon zest create a brighter flavor than bottled lemon juice.
- Avoid overcooking the salmon to keep it moist and flaky.
- Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 415 per serving