Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe – A Healthy and Flavorful Dish

 Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe – A Healthy and Flavorful Dish


Preparation Time: 10 minutes  

Cooking Time: 20 minutes  

Total Time: 30 minutes  

Servings: 4


 Introduction


Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This dish brings together the rich, tender flavor of salmon with a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce. The combination of fresh herbs, citrus, and butter enhances the natural taste of the fish, making it a delicious and healthy option. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a nutritious meal, this baked salmon recipe is a must-try!


 Ingredients


For the Salmon:

- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin on or off)

- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

- 3 garlic cloves, minced

- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 teaspoon lemon zest

- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Lemon slices for garnish


For Serving:

- Steamed vegetables (such as broccoli or asparagus)

- Rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes

- Extra lemon wedges for squeezing


 Instructions


 1. Preheat the Oven


Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.


 2. Prepare the Salmon


Step 1: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down if applicable.


Step 2: Season the fillets generously with salt and pepper.


 3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce


Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and fresh thyme.


Step 2: Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use a spoon to spread the sauce evenly.


Step 3: Place a few lemon slices on top of each fillet for extra flavor and presentation.


 4. Bake the Salmon


Step 1: Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when done.


Step 2: If you prefer a crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Be sure to watch the salmon closely to avoid burning.


5. Serve


Step 1: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a minute before serving.


Step 2: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes.


 Cooking Tips


- Salmon Selection: Fresh wild-caught salmon is ideal for this recipe, but farm-raised salmon works just as well. You can also use frozen salmon fillets—just thaw them completely before baking.


- Herbs: Feel free to substitute thyme with other herbs like dill, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant taste, but dried herbs can also be used.


- Cooking Time: The key to perfect baked salmon is not overcooking it. Keep an eye on the oven, especially if your fillets are thin. For thick fillets, you may need to extend the cooking time by a few minutes.


Serving Suggestions


- Side Dishes: Pair your Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. You can also serve it with a starch like rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.


- **Salad:** A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon and provides a healthy contrast.


- **Wine Pairing:** This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio.


### Nutrition Information (Per Serving)


- **Calories:** Approximately 400  

- **Protein:** 30 grams  

- **Carbohydrates:** 2 grams  

- **Fat:** 30 grams  

- **Fiber:** 1 gram  

- **Omega-3 Fatty Acids:** High (from the salmon)


### Conclusion


Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and fragrant garlic enhances the natural taste of the salmon, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete and nutritious meal that’s sure to impress!


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This detailed recipe for Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Salmon includes comprehensive instructions, cooking tips, and serving suggestions to help you create a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal.

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