Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Lemon and Herbs

Prep Time: 10 minutes   |   Cook Time: 15 minutes   |   Total Time: 25 minutes   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Garlic butter salmon is one of the easiest and most flavorful seafood dinners you can prepare at home. This baked version combines tender salmon fillets with rich melted butter, fresh garlic, bright lemon, and fragrant herbs. As the salmon bakes, the butter and garlic infuse the fish with incredible flavor while keeping it moist and flaky. The lemon adds a refreshing balance that prevents the dish from feeling too heavy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant meals with guests, this recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients. For the best results, bake the salmon just until it flakes easily with a fork.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each / 170 g each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (42 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (30 ml)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (6 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian herbs (2 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
• Lemon slices for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and place them skin-side down on the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil until well combined.
4. Season the fish: Sprinkle salmon with salt, black pepper, and dried herbs.
5. Add the sauce: Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Bake the salmon: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of about 125–130°F (52–54°C).
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices, then serve immediately while warm and flaky.

FAQs

Q1: How do I know when salmon is fully cooked?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.

Q2: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.

Q3: Can garlic butter salmon be made ahead of time?
Salmon tastes best fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

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