Name: Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon: The Best Easy Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tsp freshly minced garlic; 1 tsp honey; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp sea salt flakes; 0.5 tsp cracked black pepper (plus extra to serve); 0.5 tsp chili (red pepper) flakes (optional); 4 fillets skin-on salmon ((see note 1)); Freezer-friendly mashed potato (See link); Steamed greens or leafy green salad (Sprinkled with parmesan (optional)); Fresh lemon slices; Fresh flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped)

Introduction to Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

The Allure of Homemade Meals for Young Professionals

In today's fast-paced world, young professionals often find themselves stretched thin, juggling work, social life, and personal aspirations. Amidst this hustle, the allure of homemade meals becomes a comforting oasis. Enter baked lemon garlic butter salmon, a dish that perfectly marries simplicity with sophistication.

Picture this: after a long day at the office, you arrive home craving something not only delicious but also nutritious. This salmon recipe checks all the boxes—it's quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and boasts impressive health benefits. Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

By creating your own meals, you reclaim control over what you eat while saving money compared to dining out. Plus, the aroma of lemon, garlic, and butter wafting through your kitchen? That's the kind of reward that can rejuvenate even the most exhausted professional.

So why wait? Let’s dive into the steps for creating this delightful baked lemon garlic butter salmon, bringing a gourmet touch to your weeknight dinners. Ready to impress not only yourself but also your friends with your culinary skills? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Creating the perfect baked lemon garlic butter salmon starts with gathering just a few fresh ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted for that rich, luscious taste
2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, to keep the salmon tender and moist
2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, bringing in that essential zing
1 teaspoon freshly minced garlic, because who can resist garlic?
1 teaspoon honey, to balance the flavors with a touch of sweetness
1 teaspoon sweet paprika, adding a subtle smokiness and color
1 teaspoon dried oregano, for an aromatic bouquet
1 teaspoon sea salt flakes, to enhance all those flavors
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper, plus extra to serve, for that little kick
½ teaspoon chili (red pepper) flakes (optional), if you’re feeling adventurous
4 skin-on salmon fillets (see note 1), the star of the dish!

These ingredients not only ensure your salmon is delicious but also easy to prepare. Check out our recipes for (Freezer-friendly mashed potatoes) and (leafy green salad with balsamic dressing) for some quick sides!

Preparing Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Cooking can sometimes feel like a chore, but with the right guidance, it can transform into a joy-filled experience. One dish that perfectly blends simplicity with deliciousness is baked lemon garlic butter salmon. Here’s a friendly step-by-step guide to help you prepare this zesty seafood delight.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, it's essential to have everything ready at hand. For this delightful dish, make sure you have the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon of freshly minced garlic
1 teaspoon of honey
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of sea salt flakes
½ teaspoon of cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon of chili flakes (optional)
4 skin-on salmon fillets

These ingredients create a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing. Don't forget to check if your salmon is fresh—quality fish makes a world of difference!

Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Marinade

Once your ingredients are assembled, it’s time to whip up the lemon garlic butter marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine:

Melted butter
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Minced garlic
Honey
Sweet paprika
Dried oregano
Sea salt
Cracked black pepper
Chili flakes (if you’re feeling adventurous)

Mix until well combined, and you’ll have a vibrant marinade ready to elevate your salmon. This marinade not only enhances flavor but also helps to keep the fish moist during baking.

Prepare the Salmon Fillets

Next, let’s prepare the star of the show—the salmon fillets. Place the fillets skin-side down in a roasting tin. This is where your delicious marinade comes into action! Spoon it generously over the tops of the salmon to ensure they’re well coated.

Bake the Salmon to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) (or 200°C/400°F if you're using a fan-forced oven). Once it’s nice and hot, pop your tray of salmon in. Bake the salmon for approximately 12 minutes. For that coveted caramelized finish, switch the oven grill (or broiler) to high for an additional 3 minutes. This method ensures your baked lemon garlic butter salmon is beautifully golden and cooked to your liking.

Add the Finishing Touches

After baking, it’s time to serve up your masterpiece! Pair your salmon with freezer-friendly mashed potatoes or a refreshing leafy green salad sprinkled with parmesan. A squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley will elevate the dish further, adding color and brightness.

So there you have it – a step-by-step guide to preparing baked lemon garlic butter salmon. Your kitchen will soon be filled with delightful aromas, and your friends or family will be asking for seconds! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Variations on Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Exploring different flavor profiles can elevate your baked lemon garlic butter salmon experience. Here are two tasty variations that are sure to impress!

Spicy Lemon Garlic Salmon

For those who love a kick, add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or increase the chili flakes in the marinade. This fiery twist perfectly balances the buttery richness of the salmon. Pair with a side of spicy quinoa salad to complement the heat!

Honey Mustard Baked Salmon

If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, swap honey for honey mustard in the marinade. This provides a delightful tang that pairs wonderfully with the lemon and garlic. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a vibrant plate.

Experimenting with these variations can make your dinners exciting and keep your taste buds guessing!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

When preparing your baked lemon garlic butter salmon, a few tips can elevate the dish:

Choose Fresh Salmon: Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are moist and vibrant in color.
Marinate Wisely: For a deeper flavor, let the salmon marinate in the lemon garlic butter mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate.
Oven Technique: Preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking. The high temperature helps create a beautifully caramelized top without overcooking the fish.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your salmon with freezer-friendly mashed potatoes or a bright leafy green salad for balance. Fresh herbs like parsley add a vibrant touch.

For more helpful cooking tips, explore resources like Cooking Light or Serious Eats. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

When it comes to savoring your baked lemon garlic butter salmon, the side dishes can truly elevate the meal. Here are some delightful suggestions to complement that rich salmon flavor:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A serving of freezer-friendly mashed potatoes adds the perfect creamy contrast. The buttery salmon pairs beautifully with the smooth texture of potatoes.
Steamed Greens or Salad: Light and refreshing, steamed greens or a leafy green salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness of the salmon. Sprinkle some parmesan for an extra flavor boost!
Fresh Lemon Slices: A squeeze of fresh lemon on your finished plate enhances the citrus notes and brightens the dish.
Garnish with Parsley: Top your salmon with finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

With these accompanying dishes, your meal will not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress your guests!

Time Breakdown for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Preparation time
Getting everything ready for your baked lemon garlic butter salmon takes about 10 minutes. You’ll want to gather your ingredients and mix up that delicious marinade.

Cooking time
The actual cooking time is just 15 minutes in the oven. This makes it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Total time
In just 25 minutes, you’ll go from kitchen to table, serving up a flavorful dish that tastes like it took all day! Perfect for impressing friends or family without the fuss.

Nutritional Facts for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Calories
A serving of baked lemon garlic butter salmon usually contains about 350 calories, making it a balanced choice for a healthy meal without compromising on flavor.

Protein
Each fillet packs a satisfying punch with approximately 30 grams of protein, which plays a crucial role in muscle repair and growth. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to support their active lifestyles.

Omega-3 Content
Salmon is renowned for its high Omega-3 fatty acid content. A typical serving of this dish can provide over 2 grams of Omega-3s, which are essential for heart health and brain function. Regularly consuming Omega-3s can even help reduce inflammation. If you're interested in learning more about the health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids, check out this expert article for insights.

This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also supports a well-rounded diet!

FAQs about Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen salmon for your baked lemon garlic butter salmon is perfectly fine. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before you prep. This helps it cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors from the marinade. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or submerge it in a sealed bag in cold water for about an hour.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The best way to check if your salmon is done is to use a fork. Gently flake a piece of the fish and see if it separates easily—it should be opaque and flake easily. If you have a kitchen thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 50-55°C (122-130°F) for moist, tender salmon or cook up to 63°C (145°F) for a firmer texture.

What side dishes pair well with baked salmon?

Baked lemon garlic butter salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh leaf salad. Steamed greens like asparagus or broccoli add a nice crunch, and a slice of lemon can elevate the dish even more. For a complete meal, check out our recipes for freezer-friendly mashed potatoes or a tasty green leafy salad with balsamic dressing. Enjoy!

Conclusion on Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

In conclusion, baked lemon garlic butter salmon is a simple yet exquisite dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. The harmonious blend of flavors, combined with the ease of preparation, makes this a must-try recipe. Enjoy with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience. For more delicious recipes, check out our guide on healthy meal pairings.