Introduction to Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
Cooking at home can sometimes feel like a chore, but the Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is here to change that! This dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the fresh, flaky texture of salmon, creating a meal that feels extravagant yet is simple enough for any night of the week. It’s packed with nutrients too—did you know that salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids? Incorporating it into your meals can have fantastic benefits for your heart health and brain function.
What sets this recipe apart is its ability to impress your guests without hours of prep work. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 15 minutes in the kitchen, you can create a restaurant-quality dish. Imagine serving your friends perfectly seared salmon, drizzled with a luscious garlic butter sauce, while casually sipping on a sparkling water or herbal tea.
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners while keeping things manageable, dive into this Garlic Butter Salmon recipe. With easy-to-follow steps and a handful of pantry staples, dinner will be on the table in no time!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon
Essential ingredients you’ll need
To whip up a delicious Garlic Butter Salmon recipe, gather the following essential ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (180g/6oz each), skinless and boneless for optimal flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt (cooking or kosher)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil for that rich base
- 1 tablespoon garlic (~2 cloves), finely minced by hand—trust me, avoid the garlic press!
- 90g / 6 tablespoon salted butter, cut into cubes (or unsalted butter plus ¼ teaspoon salt)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, with more on hand for that bright finish
- 2 teaspoon parsley, finely chopped for a fresh garnish
Optional ingredients for customization
Want to make this dish uniquely yours? Consider these optional enhancements:
- Chili flakes for a hint of spice
- Capers for a tangy bite
- Fresh herbs like dill or basil to switch up the flavor profile
How will you customize your Garlic Butter Salmon? Feel free to experiment! If you’re looking for serving ideas, check out this delicious Cauliflower Mash to complement your meal.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Garlic Butter Salmon
Making the perfect Garlic Butter Salmon at home is not only rewarding but also surprisingly easy! With just a few key steps, you can enjoy a succulent seafood dish that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s how to do it:
Prepare the salmon fillets
Start by taking your salmon fillets out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This allows them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking. While the salmon is warming up, you can prep your ingredients, like mincing about two cloves of garlic. The key here is to avoid using a garlic press for a finer texture; just chop it by hand. This step adds a lovely, aromatic punch to your dish!
Season both sides with salt and pepper
Once your salmon has come to room temperature, it's time to season. Generously sprinkle both sides of each fillet with salt and black pepper. This not only enhances the flavor but also creates a delicious crust when seared. Want to take it up a notch? Consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for extra flair!
Sear the salmon to golden perfection
Heat 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the salmon in the pan with the presentation side (the curved side) facing down. Let the salmon cook undisturbed for about three minutes until it turns golden brown. Patience is key here—resist the urge to flip it too soon!
Add butter and start basting
After the salmon has developed a beautiful crust, carefully flip each fillet and cook for another minute. Now, it’s time to add the salted butter to the pan. When it melts and starts to foam, add your minced garlic. Use a spoon to gently scoop the bubbling butter and spoon it over the salmon continuously for about 1 ½ minutes. This basting technique keeps your salmon moist and infuses it with amazing flavor.
Check for desired doneness and rest
To ensure your salmon is cooked to perfection, check its internal temperature. For a juicy, medium-rare finish, aim for 50°C/122°F. Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for about three minutes. During this time, it will continue to cook slightly, reaching a delicious 53°C/127°F. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish.
Finish with lemon juice and garnish
Before serving, put the pan back on the unlit stove (to keep the butter warm) and add a teaspoon of lemon juice for that zingy finish. Place each salmon fillet on serving plates, drizzle with the garlic butter sauce, and garnish with finely chopped parsley. This simple touch not only adds color but also elevates the dish's presentation.
Now you have a delightful Garlic Butter Salmon recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy this luxurious yet easy dish alongside some roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash for a complete meal.
For an even deeper flavor profile, check out food pairing ideas or more seafood recipes on Epicurious and Serious Eats. These resources might give you the inspiration you didn't know you needed!
Variations on Garlic Butter Salmon
Elevate your Garlic Butter Salmon recipe with a few delightful twists!
Spice it Up with Chili Flakes
If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some chili flakes into your garlic butter mix. The subtle spiciness enhances the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon and adds an exciting kick. A pinch goes a long way—start small, and adjust according to your taste!
Add a Twist with Herbs like Dill or Thyme
For an aromatic touch, consider tossing in fresh herbs like dill or thyme. These herbs not only complement salmon beautifully but also bring a refreshing brightness. Simply chop them finely and stir them into the butter just before basting the fish. Get creative and explore different herb combinations to find your perfect match!
Why not experiment with these variations for your next meal? They can transform a simple dish into a gourmet experience!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Salmon
Importance of Using Fresh Ingredients
When preparing your Garlic Butter Salmon recipe, fresh ingredients make all the difference. Fresh salmon not only enhances flavor but also ensures that your dish is moist and flaky. Similarly, fresh garlic can elevate your meal, adding a vibrant taste that dried alternatives simply can't match. Consider visiting local fish markets or farmers' markets for quality ingredients.
Benefits of Letting Salmon Rest Before Serving
Allowing your salmon to rest for a few minutes after cooking is crucial. This simple step allows the juices to redistribute within the fish, making each bite more succulent and flavorful. Trust me, the extra few minutes spent will reward you with a perfectly tender salmon that's simply irresistible! For tips on ensuring the best texture, check out Cooking Light's advice on resting meat here.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Salmon
Pairings for a Complete Meal
To make the most of your Garlic Butter Salmon, consider pairing it with light and fresh sides. A classic option is creamy Cauliflower Mash, which complements the richness of the salmon perfectly. Fresh leafy greens tossed in a French Vinaigrette add crunch and brightness. You might also try roasted veggies or a simple quinoa salad for a wholesome and well-rounded meal.
Creative Serving Ideas to Impress Guests
Want to elevate your Garlic Butter Salmon recipe for a dinner party? Serve it on a bed of sautéed spinach and top with toasted pine nuts for a touch of elegance. Alternatively, place each fillet on individual wooden boards for a rustic presentation, drizzling the garlic butter artistically around it. Add a wedge of lemon for a burst of color and flavor, making your dish as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Salmon
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Getting your ingredients ready doesn’t take long! You’ll quickly chop the garlic, season the salmon, and measure out the butter and lemon juice.
Cooking time: 8 minutes
In less than ten minutes, this dish transforms from raw to beautifully cooked salmon. Sear, baste, and savor the aromas in your kitchen!
Total time: 18 minutes
In under 20 minutes, you can have a delicious, gourmet Garlic Butter Salmon recipe on your table. Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself!
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Salmon
Calories per serving
This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe boasts approximately 464 calories per serving, making it a filling yet delightful option for a healthy dinner.
Protein content and health benefits
Packed with 36 grams of protein, this salmon dish is not only satisfying but also supports muscle growth and repair. Salmon is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart health benefits.
Key vitamins and minerals
Enjoy a boost of essential nutrients, including Vitamin A (639 IU) and Potassium (891 mg). These vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining vision, immune function, and muscle health. For more nutritional insights, check out Healthline.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Salmon
How can I ensure my salmon stays moist?
To keep your Garlic Butter Salmon moist, consider using skinless fillets, which allow the buttery goodness to seep in. Also, avoid overcooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 50°C (122°F) for medium-rare, and remember to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the fish.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have salted butter, you can use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt. For the garlic, while freshly minced is best, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Feel free to swap the parsley for dill or cilantro if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What sides go well with garlic butter salmon?
Garlic Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider creamy mashed cauliflower, steamed asparagus, or a fresh garden salad with French vinaigrette. For a hearty option, serve with quinoa or brown rice. The rich butter complements lighter veggies perfectly.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is not only simple but also bursting with flavor, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner. Pair it with your favorite sides for a nourishing meal that impresses. Whether you're cooking for friends or just for you, this dish is sure to delight! Enjoy!
Garlic Butter Salmon recipe
Equipment
- Large non-stick skillet
Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon (180g/6oz each), skinless and boneless
- ½ teaspoon salt cooking / kosher
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic (~2 cloves), finely minced by hand
- 90 g salted butter cut into cubes (or unsalted + ¼ teaspoon salt)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice plus more to taste
- 2 teaspoon parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Take salmon out of fridge 30 minutes prior to cooking. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in large non stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add salmon, presentation side (i.e., curved side) down, and cook for 3 minutes until golden.
- Turn salmon and cook the other side for 1 minute. Then put the butter in.
- Once butter is melted and foaming, add garlic and immediately start spooning the bubbling butter continuously over the salmon for 1 ½ minutes.
- Check Internal temperature of salmon. It should be 50°C/122°F for medium-rare. Remove salmon to a plate. Rest for 3 minutes.
- Put pan back on unlit stove to keep butter hot. Add lemon juice.
- Place salmon on serving plates. Spoon over butter, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley.
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