Description
Garlic Butter Salmon with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients
2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions
Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Sear the Salmon:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon, skin-side down, and sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
Combine and Serve:
Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the fillets. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your salmon fillets are at room temperature for even cooking. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a crispy sear. Season the flesh side generously. In your skillet, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. Carefully place the salmon skin-side down, pressing gently for the first 10 seconds to prevent curling. Do not move the fillets for a full 4-5 minutes to build a golden crust. When flipping, use a thin, flexible spatula. After removing the salmon, immediately reduce the heat to medium before adding the butter to prevent the garlic from burning in the residual high heat.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or with roasted asparagus and cherry tomatoes. For something more substantial, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or lemon-herb rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or dill and always include fresh lemon wedges for a bright, acidic pop.
How-to Summary
Quickly prepare restaurant-quality garlic butter salmon by: 1) Drying and seasoning the fillets, 2) Searing skin-side down until crispy, 3) Flipping to finish cooking, 4) Creating a simple sauce of butter, garlic, lemon, and herbs in the same pan, and 5) Returning the salmon to coat it in the sauce. The entire process takes about 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator first and pat it extremely dry. Frozen fillets often release more moisture, which can hinder crisping.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? You can substitute with 2 teaspoons of dried parsley, but add it to the butter at the same time as the garlic to rehydrate and mellow its flavor.
How do I know when the salmon is done? The salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). The flesh will be opaque throughout.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time? It’s best made fresh. However, you can mince the garlic and chop the herbs in advance. Reheating the sauce can cause the butter to separate.
What other herbs work well? Fresh dill, chives, or tarragon are excellent alternatives. For a different profile, try adding 1 teaspoon of capers to the sauce with the lemon juice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the salmon adequately, which leads to steaming instead of searing.
- Using a skillet that isn’t hot enough before adding the fish, resulting in a soggy skin.
- Overcrowding the pan, which lowers the temperature and causes the salmon to stew.
- Burning the garlic by adding it to a skillet that is too hot. Always reduce the heat before making the sauce.
- Overcooking the salmon. Remember it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the pan.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Salmon with Fresh Herbs is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. In just 15 minutes, you can achieve a dish with impressive flavor, crispy texture, and a luxurious, aromatic sauce. It’s a reliable recipe for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special enough for guests. Mastering the few key techniques—like a proper sear and a balanced sauce—ensures delicious success every time. Enjoy this versatile, healthy, and utterly satisfying seafood delight.