Introduction
Hey there, fellow food enthusiast! Today, I’m going to share with you a delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon. This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of cozy family dinners and the joy of savoring a perfectly cooked meal together. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of flavors!
Salmon is a versatile fish that pairs beautifully with a myriad of ingredients, but the combination of garlic and butter takes it to a whole new level. The rich, creamy butter complements the bold flavors of garlic, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for any skill level. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
So, why wait? Let’s uncover the secrets to creating a succulent Garlic Butter Baked Salmon that will surely impress your taste buds and your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I make this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon when I want to elevate a simple dinner into a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. The aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!
My family goes crazy for this dish because it’s a perfect balance of indulgence and health. The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon combined with the richness of butter make it a guilt-free pleasure that satisfies both the taste buds and the body.
Plus, the simplicity of this recipe means you can customize it to your liking. Add a squeeze of lemon for a citrusy twist or sprinkle some fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor. The possibilities are endless!
(By the way, if you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two for an even more robust taste!)
Ingredients
For this delectable Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, you’ll need the following:
– Fresh salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– Garlic cloves, minced
– Unsalted butter, melted
– Lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(I sometimes use organic butter for a richer flavor, but any butter will do the trick. Feel free to swap parsley for dill if you prefer a different herbaceous note!)
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
4. Spoon the garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is generously coated.
5. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Once done, garnish the salmon with chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
(This is where I usually sneak a taste to make sure the seasoning is just right! Don’t worry if it looks a bit underdone when you take it out – residual heat will continue cooking the fish to perfection.)
Notes
Through many trials and errors, I’ve discovered that the key to a perfect Garlic Butter Baked Salmon lies in not overcooking the fish. Keep a close eye on it in the oven to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
For a bolder garlic flavor, you can sauté the minced garlic in butter before drizzling it over the salmon. This extra step adds a depth of taste that’s truly irresistible!
Variations
As an adventurous home cook, I’ve experimented with various additions to this recipe. While most turned out delicious, there was one time I tried adding honey to the garlic butter mixture – let’s just say it was a sweet disaster!
For a spicy kick, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes over the salmon before baking. The heat pairs surprisingly well with the richness of the butter and garlic.
Equipment
If you don’t have a pastry brush to coat the salmon with the garlic butter mixture, fear not! A spoon works just as well for drizzling the flavorful concoction over the fish. Improvise with what you have – cooking is all about creativity!
Storage Information
Though honestly, in my house, this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon never lasts more than a day! However, if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.
Serving Suggestions
I find that serving this salmon over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside a crisp salad makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The buttery garlic sauce drizzled over the salmon complements the earthy grains or fresh greens perfectly.
Pro Tips
I once tried rushing the baking time for the salmon and ended up with an overcooked, dry dish. Patience is key when it comes to achieving that moist and flaky texture that makes this recipe so irresistible!
Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your preferences. Cooking is all about finding the perfect balance of flavors that tickle your taste buds.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely before baking to ensure even cooking. Fresh or frozen, this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is sure to delight your senses!
Q: Is it okay to substitute olive oil for butter?
A: While olive oil can be a healthier alternative, the richness of butter truly elevates the flavors in this dish. However, feel free to experiment and find what works best for your palate!
So, there you have it – a scrumptious Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Get creative, make it your own, and enjoy the delightful flavors that this dish has to offer!
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe
Elevate your dinner with this succulent Garlic Butter Baked Salmon recipe. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients
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2 fresh salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
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In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
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Spoon the garlic butter mixture over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
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Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
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Garnish the salmon with chopped parsley before serving.
