Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of salmon, garlic, and lemon. This easy recipe delivers a healthy and tasty meal that everyone can enjoy. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, this salmon dish is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and healthy dinner option. It takes only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time. Plus, baking the salmon in foil makes for easy cleanup, allowing you to savor every bite without the stress of a messy kitchen. The combination of lemon and garlic adds a bright flavor that makes salmon shine, while the butter keeps it moist and delicious.
How to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (finely minced; more or less to taste)
- 1/2 lemon (juice only)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons butter (diced)
Directions:
Prep: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place a large piece of aluminum foil in a large rimmed baking dish that will comfortably hold all of your salmon (the baking dish is to catch any drippings – way easier to clean than your oven!).
Season fish: Lightly grease the foil with olive oil. Place the salmon fillets on top (they can be close together if using individual fillets, just not on top of each other). Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and evenly scatter garlic on top. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dot with butter. Seal foil over salmon.
Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes (depending on the thickness of your fillets) or until salmon flakes easily. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
This delicious salmon can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Rice or quinoa can also complement the dish nicely. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the salmon for an extra burst of flavor.
How to Store Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to warm it through without drying it out.
Tips to Make Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice based on your preference.
- To add more flavor, you can include fresh herbs like parsley or dill sprinkled on top before serving.
Variation
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also swap the salmon for other types of fish like trout or tilapia if you prefer.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
2. How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should be opaque throughout.
3. Can I cook the salmon without foil?
Yes, you can place the salmon directly on a greased baking sheet, but using foil helps with cleanup and keeps the fish moist.
Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet Use fresh salmon for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for greasing foil.
- 3 cloves garlic (finely minced) Adjust to taste.
- ½ lemon juice only Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs for added flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt Add more or less to taste.
- Black pepper To taste.
- 2 tablespoons butter (diced) Keeps salmon moist.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place a large piece of aluminum foil in a large rimmed baking dish to catch drippings.
Seasoning the fish
- Lightly grease the foil with olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets on top of the foil.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and evenly scatter garlic on top.
- Drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Dot with butter and seal the foil over the salmon.
Baking
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily.
