When you think of a quick, flavorful, and utterly satisfying weeknight dinner, Garlic Butter Salmon should be at the top of your list. This delectable dish combines tender salmon fillets with a rich, buttery garlic sauce that not only enhances the natural flavors of the fish but also creates a culinary experience that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, making it suitable for everything from casual family dinners to more elegant gatherings with friends. You might be surprised at just how easy it is to prepare this delightful meal, which is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
You will quickly fall in love with this Garlic Butter Salmon recipe for numerous reasons. Not only does it highlight the wonderful taste of salmon, but the garlic butter sauce adds a luxurious touch that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The cooking method keeps the salmon juicy, while the simple ingredients come together to create a rich flavor profile. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick meal or a cooking enthusiast aiming to impress guests, this recipe is a reliable favorite. It’s quick to prepare—taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish—and requires only a handful of basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s also a healthful option that’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it a smart choice for nutritious eating without compromising on taste.
Ingredients about Garlic Butter Salmon
To create this delightful Garlic Butter Salmon, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless salmon fillets (approx. 4-5 oz / 120-150g each)
- 40g / 1/4 cup plain flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided into tbsp chunks (90g / 3.2 oz)
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely diced
- 120ml / 1/2 cup vegetable stock
- 1 tbsp finely diced fresh parsley
- 1 lemon, divided into 4 wedges
How to Make Garlic Butter Salmon Directions
Making Garlic Butter Salmon is incredibly straightforward and can be achieved in just a few simple steps. Start by gathering your ingredients and preparing your workspace to ensure a smooth cooking process. In a large shallow dish, combine the plain flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will help to create a light coating on your salmon fillets, enhancing the flavor and giving them a lovely golden crust when cooked.
Once your dry ingredients are ready, carefully coat each salmon fillet with the flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess flour to avoid clumpiness. Next, heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the coated salmon fillets in the pan. Let them fry for about three minutes on one side until they develop a beautiful golden color. You’ll want to handle the salmon gently to ensure that it cooks evenly and does not break apart.
Once the first side is golden, flip the fillets and fry them for another two minutes. At this point, add one tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan and tilt it slightly to baste the salmon fillets in the melted butter. This basting technique helps to keep the fish moist and infuses it with the rich, garlicky flavor you’re creating. Once the salmon is nearly cooked through, carefully remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the finely diced garlic to the same pan. Sauté the garlic until it’s just golden, being careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. After the garlic is fragrant and lightly browned, pour in the vegetable stock, using a spatula to scrape up any delicious bits of fond (cooked bits) from the bottom of the pan. This adds even more flavor to your sauce.
As the stock begins to simmer, whisk in the remaining chunks of butter one by one, allowing each piece to melt completely before adding the next. This step results in a rich and glossy sauce that your salmon will soak up beautifully. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the finely diced fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Next, return the salmon fillets to the pan, gently basting them in the warm garlic butter sauce to ensure they are heated through and well-coated. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional minute or two, letting the flavors meld before serving. The aroma will be irresistible, making your taste buds ignite in anticipation!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Salmon
Serving Garlic Butter Salmon is a delightful experience that you can enhance further with simple yet elegant presentation. Start by placing a salmon fillet on each plate, generously drizzling the rich garlic butter sauce over the top. The vibrant colors from the salmon and the golden sauce make for an attractive dish.
To elevate this meal, consider serving the salmon with a side of steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. These veggies not only complement the dish visually but also contribute to a nutritious balance. A side of fluffy rice or fluffy mashed potatoes can also be an excellent choice for soaking up the delicious sauce. Don’t forget to add the lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before enjoying will brighten up the meal and add a refreshing zing to the rich flavors of the butter sauce.
For a complete and satisfying meal, you may also want to include a light salad with a vinaigrette dressing as a starter. This can help balance out the richness of the salmon and enhance the overall dining experience. As you serve this dish, your friends and family will be impressed by your culinary skills, and you’ll enjoy the compliments that come your way!
Expert Tips: Garlic Butter Salmon
To make sure your Garlic Butter Salmon turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips you can keep in mind.
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Whenever possible, opt for fresh salmon fillets rather than frozen ones. Fresh salmon has a superior flavor and texture, making your dish even more delicious. However, if you only have frozen salmon, ensure to thaw it properly before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a slightly golden crust on the outside while the inside remains juicy. A good rule of thumb is to remove the salmon from the heat when it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare. It will continue to cook slightly with residual heat.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the garlic butter sauce by adding other herbs such as dill or thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This allows you to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste preference.
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the sauce in advance and just reheat it when ready to serve. This can save you some time on busy nights.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve this dish promptly after cooking. If it sits too long, the salmon may lose its flakiness, and the sauce could thicken as it cools.
How to Store Garlic Butter Salmon
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delightful Garlic Butter Salmon, storing it properly can help preserve its flavor and texture. Allow any leftover salmon to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It’s best to store each fillet separately to prevent them from sticking together.
Refrigerate the container and enjoy the leftovers within two to three days for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to reheat, your best option is to gently warm the salmon fillets in the oven at a low temperature or on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable stock to ensure they stay moist and flavorful. Avoid using a microwave, as it can lead to a rubbery texture.
Variation of Garlic Butter Salmon
While the classic Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is absolutely scrumptious, there are numerous variations you can explore to keep your meals interesting. Here are a few ideas:
- Lemon-Dill Garlic Butter Salmon: Incorporate fresh dill into your garlic butter sauce along with a bit more lemon zest for a refreshing and herbaceous twist. This pairs magnificently with the richness of salmon.
- Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick. This will add an unexpected depth of flavor that many will enjoy.
- Asian-Inspired Garlic Butter Salmon: Swap out the vegetable stock for low-sodium soy sauce, and add a splash of sesame oil in place of some butter. This variation brings in a delightful umami flavor that’s sure to impress.
- Herb-Infused Garlic Butter Salmon: Mix in a variety of fresh herbs, like thyme, chives, or basil, to the garlic butter sauce for a fragrant touch. The combination of herbs can transform the dish into something special.
- Garlic Butter Salmon with Veggies: For an all-in-one dinner option, cook your salmon on a bed of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
FAQ about Garlic Butter Salmon
What is the best type of salmon to use for Garlic Butter Salmon?
When making Garlic Butter Salmon, opt for fresh fillets of salmon like Atlantic or sockeye salmon for the best flavor and texture. Both types are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and will deliver excellent results.
How can I tell when my salmon is done cooking?
The best way to check if your salmon is done cooking is by using a fork; it should flake easily and appear opaque. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should ideally reach 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare.
Can I make Garlic Butter Salmon in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to cook the salmon, ensuring everything stays flavorful and fresh.
What can I pair with Garlic Butter Salmon?
Garlic Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. A light salad or roasted potatoes will also complement the dish nicely.
How long can I store leftover Garlic Butter Salmon?
You can store leftover Garlic Butter Salmon in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Make sure to reheat it gently to maintain its moistness and flavor.
Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless salmon fillets (approx. 4-5 oz / 120-150g each) Choose fresh salmon for best flavor.
- 40 g plain flour For coating the salmon.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Adds flavor to the coating.
- to taste none Salt Season to your preference.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper For seasoning.
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil Used for frying the salmon.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (divided into tbsp chunks) Adds richness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic (finely diced) Fresh garlic adds flavor.
- 120 ml vegetable stock For the sauce.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely diced) For garnish and freshness.
- 1 piece lemon (divided into 4 wedges) For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients and prepare your workspace.
- In a large shallow dish, combine the plain flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each salmon fillet with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the coated salmon fillets in the pan and fry for about three minutes until golden.
- Flip the fillets and fry for another two minutes, then add one tablespoon of unsalted butter to baste the salmon.
- Remove the salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Lower the heat, add the finely diced garlic, and sauté until golden.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Whisk in the remaining butter until melted before adding parsley.
- Return the salmon to the pan, baste with the sauce, and allow to simmer for an extra minute.
Serving
- Serve the salmon on plates, drizzling with the garlic butter sauce.
- Add steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes on the side, along with lemon wedges.
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