Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon

Name: Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

When I discovered Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon, it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the burst of flavor that comes from just a few fresh ingredients. Cooking the salmon in garlic butter not only elevates its rich taste but also makes for a delightful aroma that fills the home. I can't get enough of the way the lemon balances out the richness, making this meal perfect for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:46:27.621Z

The first time I made Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon, I couldn’t believe how effortless it was to create such a gourmet dish right at home. The combination of tangy lemon and rich garlic butter perfectly complements the salmon, resulting in a meal that tastes as good as it looks. I recommend using fresh salmon fillets, as they make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the salmon rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, which enhances its tenderness and keeps every bite moist. Trust me, this little step makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Succulent salmon drizzled with savory garlic butter
Citrusy zing from fresh lemon elevates every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and packed with omega-3 fatty acids

Perfecting the Garlic Butter

The garlic butter serves as a key flavor base in this recipe, so getting it just right is crucial. When melting the butter, make sure to keep the heat at a medium setting to avoid burning. Once the butter is fully melted, add the minced garlic. You want to cook it until it's fragrant but remains pale—about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste, so keep an eye on it and stir gently to prevent sticking.

Adding lemon zest to the garlic butter not only enhances the aroma but also infuses additional citrusy flavor into the dish. When zesting, ensure you're only getting the yellow part of the lemon skin—avoiding the white pith underneath, which can taste bitter. I often use a microplane for this, as it provides fine zest that distributes evenly in the garlic butter.

Cooking the Salmon to Perfection

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon can be a delicate balance, but with this recipe, it's easier. Start by placing the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely, which adds texture and flavor. You should hear a gentle sizzle; if not, the pan might not be hot enough, so adjust the heat accordingly. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the edges are slightly opaque, then flip carefully using a spatula to maintain the integrity of the fillet.

After flipping, if you notice that the fillets are curling up slightly, applying gentle pressure with the spatula can help maintain their shape. Another tip is to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly flaky salmon. Remember that it will continue to cook a bit off the heat, so take it off just before it reaches that temperature.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Now that you have everything, let's move on to cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon:

Prepare the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside.

Make the Garlic Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.

Cook the Salmon

Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip them over and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Add Lemon

Squeeze the lemon juice over the salmon and sprinkle the zest on top. Cook for another minute to absorb the flavor.

Serve

Remove from the skillet, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite side.

Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic butter. This will give your dish a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the lemon and salmon.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile dish. I recommend serving it alongside roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach, as their earthy flavors complement the richness of the salmon. You could also prepare a light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the garlic butter sauce to seep in.

A splash of extra lemon juice just before serving brings out the flavors even more. You could also try drizzling a bit of the leftover garlic butter from the skillet over the side dishes for bonus flavor. For an elegant touch, serve the dish with lemon wedges that guests can squeeze over their servings.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to save time, you can prep this dish ahead of cooking. Season the salmon fillets in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. You can also make the garlic butter mixture a few hours beforehand—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to make the dish, simply reheat the garlic butter before adding the salmon. This can make dinner on busy evenings quick and stress-free.

It’s worth noting that while cooked salmon can be refrigerated for 3-4 days, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store leftovers, ensure they are in an airtight container and consume them promptly. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes helps retain moisture, and adding a bit more lemon juice can help brighten the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon?

It pairs excellently with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Absolutely! This method works well with trout, cod, or tilapia.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?

Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).