Introduction to Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe
If you’ve been relying on takeout for your weeknight dinners, it’s time to shake things up! Making homemade salmon can truly be a game-changer in your kitchen. Not only does it allow you to control the ingredients, but it’s surprisingly simple and quick. Imagine this: you come home after a long day, and in under 30 minutes, you’ve got a delicious, nutritious meal ready to savor.
The Garlic Butter Salmon recipe stands out for its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. The combination of perfectly seared salmon drenched in garlic-infused butter, topped with a squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley, transforms a humble fish into a gourmet dish. Salmon is not just tasty; it’s also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making it a perfect choice for those who want both health benefits and incredible taste.
Feeling inspired to whip up this dish? Check out the benefits of incorporating more fish in your diet or explore cooking techniques on Seafood Nutrition. You're just a few simple steps away from impressing yourself and anyone lucky enough to sit at your dinner table!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon
Creating a delightful Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is simpler than you think. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 salmon fillets (180g/6oz each), skinless and boneless: Look for high-quality salmon for the best flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt (cooking / kosher): Enhances the natural taste of the fish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a pleasant kick.
- 1 ½ tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the salmon.
- 1 tablespoon garlic (~2 cloves), finely minced by hand: Fresh garlic is key—avoid the garlic press for a more robust flavor.
- 90g / 6 tablespoon salted butter: Cut into cubes for easy melting. If you prefer unsalted butter, just add ¼ teaspoon salt.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish.
- 2 teaspoon parsley, finely chopped: Fresh herbs elevate the visual appeal and taste.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
For a deeper dive into the flavors, consider pairing your Garlic Butter Salmon with a side of creamy mashed cauliflower or a refreshing leafy green salad. For more delicious ideas, check out this Cauliflower Mash recipe and an easy French Vinaigrette to complement your meal. Happy cooking!
Preparing Garlic Butter Salmon
Making Garlic Butter Salmon is a delightfully simple process that yields mouthwatering results. This dish marries the richness of salmon with the savory flavors of garlic and butter, making it a favorite for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.
Season the Salmon Fillets
Begin by removing the salmon fillets from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the fish cook evenly. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. A well-seasoned salmon is key to enhancing the flavor, so don’t skimp!
Heat the Skillet and Sear the Salmon
Next, it’s time to heat up your skillet. Use a large, non-stick skillet for best results and pour in 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil. Place it over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers slightly. Gently lay the salmon fillets in the skillet, presentation side down (that’s the side that will be seen when you serve it). Sear the salmon for about three minutes until golden brown and crisp. The sizzling sound is music to your ears, right?
Add Butter and Garlic
Once your salmon has that lovely golden crust, it’s time to flip. Carefully turn the fillets and let them cook for one more minute. Now, here comes the best part—add 90g (6 tablespoons) of salted butter to the skillet. As it begins to melt, add one tablespoon of finely minced garlic directly into the butter. Be mindful not to use a garlic press; finely chopping it by hand allows for better flavor diffusion.
Baste the Salmon for Flavor Enhancement
Now that your butter is bubbly and fragrant, let’s amp up the flavor even more! Tilt the skillet slightly to let the melted butter pool on one side. Use a large spoon to scoop up this bubbling garlic butter and lovingly spoon it over the salmon fillets. This basting process should continue for about a minute and a half—trust me, it’s worth every moment as it enhances the flavor and keeps the salmon incredibly moist.
Finish and Rest the Salmon
To check if your salmon is perfectly cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. Look for an internal temperature of 50°C (122°F) for a medium-rare result. Once it’s ready, transfer the salmon to a plate and let it rest for three minutes. During this time, the salmon will continue to cook slightly, reaching 53°C (127°F), ensuring a juicy texture throughout.
Before serving, don’t forget to add a dash of lemon juice to the leftover garlic butter in the skillet for a bit of zing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve your stunning Garlic Butter Salmon with sides like Cauliflower Mash or salads drizzled with French Vinaigrette.
Now you’re all set to enjoy a delicious Garlic Butter Salmon that’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for any day of the week! Happy cooking!
Variations on Garlic Butter Salmon
If you love the flavor of the Garlic Butter Salmon recipe, you’re in for a treat! Here are two delicious variations to switch things up.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Transform the rich taste of garlic butter into a delightful shrimp dish. Simply replace the salmon with peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking them in the same garlic butter sauce. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they're pink and tender. Serve over rice or a bed of greens for a light, savory meal.
Garlic Butter Fish Tacos
For a fun twist, try using the garlic butter method with flaky white fish, like cod or tilapia, to make fish tacos. Prepare the fish using the garlic butter technique, then layer it into soft tortillas with avocado, cabbage slaw, and a squeeze of lime. It’s a fantastic weekday dinner option that’s sure to impress!
Feel free to explore these variations to keep your meals exciting. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Garlic Butter Salmon
Cooking Garlic Butter Salmon is an experience in itself! Here are some friendly tips to enhance your cooking session:
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. Check out local fish markets or online seafood delivery services like SeafoodSource for quality options.
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Butter Timing Matters: Add the garlic just as the butter melts to avoid burning it. A perfectly cooked garlic will infuse more flavor without bitterness.
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Resting Period: Don’t rush! Allowing the salmon to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it even more tender.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these tips will ensure your dish shines! Enjoy it alongside a refreshing green salad or creamy sides for a complete meal experience.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Salmon
If you're looking for delicious ways to enjoy your Garlic Butter Salmon recipe, here are some fantastic serving suggestions!
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Pair with Sides: Serve the salmon alongside creamy mashed potatoes or Cauliflower Mash for a wholesome meal. Leafy greens tossed in a light French Vinaigrette complement the richness beautifully.
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Garnishes: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice elevates the flavor, while a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color.
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Casual Dining: For a more relaxed setting, flake any leftovers into a salad with seasonal vegetables or wrap them in a tortilla for a delicious salmon taco!
Feeling creative? You can even experiment with different sides like quinoa or a colorful grain salad to switch things up! Check out this guide on perfect side dishes to expand your culinary horizons!
Time Breakdown for Garlic Butter Salmon
Preparation time
Get started by seasoning the salmon fillets. This takes about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to begin mingling.
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, cooking is a breeze! It will only take around 8 minutes to sear and baste the salmon beautifully with that rich garlic butter.
Total time
In just 18 minutes, you’ll have a fresh and mouth-watering Garlic Butter Salmon recipe ready to serve! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive enough for guests.
Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Salmon
When preparing your delicious Garlic Butter Salmon recipe, it's handy to know the nutritional breakdown to keep your meals balanced. Here's a quick glance at what's inside:
- Calories: Each serving packs about 464 calories, predominantly from rich, healthy fats.
- Protein: Enjoy a hearty 36g of protein that supports muscle recovery and overall health.
- Sodium: With approximately 531mg of sodium per serving, it's wise to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
For more detailed insights, check out sources like the USDA for nutritional information on salmon and cooking methods. Embrace the flavors and health benefits of this wonderful dish!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Salmon
How can I tell if salmon is cooked perfectly?
To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 50°C (122°F) for medium-rare. To check, use a digital meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet. The salmon should appear opaque with a slightly translucent center. Remember, it will continue cooking a bit after you remove it from the heat, so don’t worry if it’s not completely done while cooking!
What should I serve with garlic butter salmon?
This delectable Garlic Butter Salmon recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it alongside creamy mashed cauliflower, sautéed greens, or a refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette. The rich and buttery flavors of the salmon complement roasted vegetables or quinoa salads beautifully, creating a balanced meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While fresh salmon is best, you can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before basting your salmon just before serving. If you have leftovers, cooked salmon can be stored for 3 to 4 days in the fridge and enjoyed in salads or sandwiches! For tips on how to store cooked fish, check out sources like Eat Right for safety guidelines.
Conclusion on Garlic Butter Salmon
In conclusion, this Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a quick and delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinners. Rich in flavor yet simple to prepare, it promises tender, juicy salmon bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Pair it with fresh greens or a cozy mash for a winning meal!
Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe: A Juicy Delight for Home Cooks
Equipment
- large non stick skillet
Ingredients
- 4 fillets salmon (180g/6oz each), skinless and boneless
- 0.5 teaspoon salt cooking / kosher
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 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 (ie. 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 (optimum juiciness pull temp). Remove salmon to a plate. Rest for 3 minutes – it will rise to 53°C/127°F.
- 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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