Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

This garlic butter baked salmon transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dinner in just 35 minutes. The buttery garlic sauce infuses the tender salmon with rich flavor while keeping it moist and flaky. After discovering this method, I've retired all other salmon recipes in my rotation.

I created this recipe when my mother in law unexpectedly came for dinner. With just pantry staples and frozen salmon I had on hand, it became her most requested dish whenever she visits us.

Ingredients

• Four salmon fillets: preferably center cut for even thickness and cooking
• Quarter cup unsalted butter: allows you to control the final saltiness of the dish
• Four garlic cloves: minced fresh gives incomparable aroma and flavor
• One tablespoon fresh lemon juice: brightens all the rich flavors
• One teaspoon dried parsley: adds subtle herbaceous notes and visual appeal
• Salt and pepper: to taste foundation seasonings that enhance the salmon
• Lemon slices for garnish: adds elegance and extra citrus aroma at serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set oven to 375°F and position rack in center. This moderate temperature gently cooks the salmon without drying the edges before the center is done. Allow at least 10 minutes for full preheating to ensure even cooking environment.

Create Garlic Butter Sauce:

Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat until just liquid but not bubbling. Add minced garlic and cook for exactly 60 seconds until fragrant but not brown. Remove from heat then stir in lemon juice and parsley. The residual heat will infuse the flavors without burning the garlic.

Prepare Salmon:

Place salmon fillets in a baking dish with at least half inch between pieces to allow heat circulation. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper pressing gently to adhere. Position fillets presentation side up for the most attractive finish.

Apply Sauce:

Pour the warm garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet using a spoon to ensure complete coverage. Make sure to coat the sides as well. Reserve a small amount of sauce for final drizzling after cooking if desired.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still maintains a slightly translucent center. For precision use a meat thermometer to reach 125°F for medium rare or 130°F for medium.

Rest and Serve:

Allow salmon to rest for 3 minutes after removing from oven. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum moisture. Garnish with lemon slices and additional fresh herbs if available. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

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The quality of your garlic makes a tremendous difference in this recipe. I learned this when I used homegrown garlic from my neighbor's garden and the flavor was unbelievably more complex than store bought. The entire family noticed the difference immediately and now I source the freshest garlic possible.

Perfect Pairings

This salmon shines when served over a bed of fluffy basmati rice that soaks up the extra garlic butter sauce. For a complete meal add a side of roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. The vegetables can even roast alongside the salmon during the last 10 minutes of baking time on a separate sheet pan.

Selecting Quality Salmon

Wild caught salmon typically offers better flavor though it can be pricier than farmed varieties. Look for fillets with bright color firm texture and minimal fishy aroma. For sustainably sourced options check for Alaskan sockeye or coho varieties which tend to be well managed fisheries. If using frozen salmon thaw completely in refrigerator overnight for best texture results.

Make It Your Own

This versatile recipe welcomes customization. Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the butter mixture for subtle sweetness. Incorporate herbs like fresh dill thyme or chives for different flavor profiles. For a Mediterranean twist include capers and olives in the baking dish. You can even add a light sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a crunchy topping.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when salmon is cooked properly?

Salmon is properly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the center is just opaque. For this dish, baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes typically achieves perfect doneness. If you prefer using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this dish?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it's best to thaw it completely first. Pat the thawed fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure the butter sauce adheres properly and the fish cooks evenly.

→ What sides pair well with garlic butter salmon?

This salmon pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, a fresh green salad, or fluffy rice. For a more substantial meal, consider adding roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto.

→ Can I substitute ingredients in the garlic butter sauce?

Absolutely! Try adding fresh dill or thyme instead of parsley, or incorporate a teaspoon of honey or dijon mustard for added complexity. You could also include a splash of white wine or use olive oil to replace some of the butter for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

The garlic butter sauce helps keep the salmon moist during baking. To ensure maximum juiciness, avoid overcooking, as salmon continues to cook slightly after removing from the oven. Consider covering the baking dish with foil for the first 10-15 minutes of cooking to trap moisture.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, simply melt the sauce and proceed with the recipe. Alternatively, fully cooked salmon can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated, though it's most delicious when freshly made.