Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: Garlic Butter Baked Salmon! There’s something so delightful about the combination of rich buttery goodness, aromatic garlic, and tender salmon dancing together in one dish. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic week when I needed something quick yet satisfying, and boy, has it become a staple in my kitchen ever since!
Every time I whip this up, I am transported back to those cozy family dinners filled with laughter, great conversations, and a lot of “Oooh, what is that amazing smell?” I also love how this dish makes me feel I’m dining out at a fancy restaurant, all while I’m just at home in my comfy clothes. So, are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!
What’s in Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?
Salmon fillets: The star of the show! I usually go for skin-on fillets to add a lovely texture and flavor to the dish. Fresh wild-caught salmon is my favorite choice, but farmed salmon works great too!
Unsalted butter: This creamy delight is melted down to create a luxurious base for our garlic sauce. I prefer unsalted because it lets me control the saltiness of the dish perfectly.
Garlic: Because can you ever have too much garlic? I’m all in for those aromatic cloves that lend a wonderful depth of flavor.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this herb not only enhances the flavor but also adds a splash of color to your final dish. Plus, let’s be honest, fresh herbs just make everything feel more gourmet!
Lemon juice: Bright and zesty, this ingredient lifts the dish and balances the richness of the butter and salmon.
Salt and black pepper: The classic duo that ties everything together. They might seem basic, but they really amp up the flavors!
Paprika: This is optional, but I like to throw in a teaspoon for a hint of warmth and a beautiful color.
Lemon slices: They’re not just a garnish; they add a lovely presentation and can be squeezed over the salmon for an extra citrus kick.
Green beans or asparagus: These are fantastic optional sides that roast beautifully alongside the salmon, making for a well-rounded meal.
Is Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Good for You?
You bet it is! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is fantastic for heart health and is known to help reduce inflammation. It’s also an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is important for muscle maintenance.
Garlic: Besides adding flavor, this superstar has antioxidant properties and can help boost your immune system. Plus, it’s great for your heart health!
Parsley: This humble herb is high in vitamins A, C, and K, making your dish not only tastier but healthier, too.
Now, while this dish is a nutritional powerhouse, it’s still important to consider your portion sizes. The butter does add calories, so if you’re watching your intake, you might want to use a little less or swap it with olive oil.
Ingredients
– 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– Lemon slices, for garnish
– Fresh green beans or asparagus (optional side)
This recipe serves about 4 people.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to create a garlic butter sauce.
3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. If using, add fresh green beans or asparagus around the salmon.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the salmon fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon slices, if desired.
7. Serve immediately with your choice of sides. Enjoy your delicious garlic butter baked salmon!
Delicious Tips and Serving Suggestions
Alright, let’s talk about how to take this dish to the next level! If you’re feeling fancy, you can add some fresh dill or even a touch of Dijon mustard for a little kick in your garlic butter sauce.
For optimal flavor, try marinating the salmon in that garlic butter mix for 30 minutes before baking. It infuses even more flavor into your fish!
Pair this scrumptious salmon with a side of roasted potatoes or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal. And let’s not forget: serving it up with a nice glass of white wine is always a delightful option.
I truly hope you try this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon. It’s such a crowd-pleaser and super easy to make. And afterwards, if you feel like sharing your experience, I’m all ears! Happy cooking!
