This incredibly flavorful lemon butter salmon recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s fast, uses simple ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
Get ready for perfectly flaky salmon drenched in a bright, zesty, buttery sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Craving Effortless Elegance on Your Plate?
Are you searching for that perfect dish that looks and tastes impressive but comes together in under 30 minutes? A meal that’s light yet satisfying, bursting with fresh flavors?
Look no further than this stunning lemon butter salmon. It’s the answer to busy weeknights and elegant Cravings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 Salmon Fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on or off)
- 2 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/4 Cup Chicken Broth
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 Tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley (or dill)
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Timing: Quick Weeknight Wonder
This lemon butter salmon is designed for speed! We’re talking about a seriously fast and utterly indulgent experience.
You can have this dish prepped and plated in about 20-25 minutes flat. Perfect for when you need something delicious without the long wait. No slow simmering required here – just pure, quick flavor.
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice sear!
Season generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy!
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (oven-safe if you plan to finish it there) over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on. Sear for 4-6 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-4 minutes on the other side, depending on the thickness and desired doneness. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Create the Glorious Lemon Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant – watch carefully to prevent burning!
Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken just slightly. Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning (salt, pepper) if needed. This sauce is the heart of our lemon butter salmon delight!
Step 4: Bathe the Salmon
Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning that luscious, glistening lemon butter salmon sauce over the top.
Let the salmon sit in the warm sauce for a minute or two just to heat through and soak up all that buttery, lemony goodness. Garnish with fresh lemon slices.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
A serving of this lemon butter salmon (one fillet with sauce) typically ranges from 350-450 calories, depending on the size of the fillet and exact amount of butter used.
It’s packed with protein and healthy Omega-3 fatty acids! While butter adds richness, this dish is a fantastic balance of indulgent flavor and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal; it’s a worthy occasional indulgence.
Healthier Alternatives
Want a lighter take on this lemon butter salmon? Easy swaps abound!
- Reduce Butter: Use half the amount of butter and supplement with a bit more olive oil or broth.
- Olive Oil Focus: Skip the butter entirely and make a lemon-garlic sauce primarily with good quality olive oil and broth.
- Herb Power: Amp up the fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon for flavor impact without extra fat.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile lemon butter salmon pairs beautifully with so many sides!
Serve it alongside fluffy quinoa, roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.
It makes a fantastic, elegant main course for guests or even a special holiday treat if you’re looking for a lighter festive meal alternative. The vibrant lemon makes it feel celebratory.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Salmon cooks quickly! Keep a close eye on it. It should be flaky but still moist inside. Use a fork to gently test for doneness. Dry salmon is the enemy!
- Wet Fish: Not drying the salmon properly prevents a good sear and can make the skin soggy. Pat it DRY!
- Crowding the Pan: Give the salmon fillets space in the skillet for even cooking and crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Burning Garlic: Add the garlic to the pan after lowering the heat post-searing. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and ruins the sauce.
Storing Leftover Lemon Butter Salmon
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the cooled lemon butter salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at reduced power until just warmed through – avoid overcooking it during reheating.
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the salmon might change slightly upon thawing. Freeze portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The sauce may separate slightly upon reheating; just give it a gentle stir.
Ready to Dive In?
Isn’t your mouth watering just thinking about that tender, flaky salmon swimming in a pool of bright, buttery, lemony sauce? This lemon butter salmon is calling your name!
It’s the kind of easy, impressive recipe that makes you feel like a culinary genius. Go on, grab your ingredients and whip this up tonight – you deserve it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
A: Yes! Make sure they are fully thawed (preferably overnight in the refrigerator) before you begin. Pat them extra dry before seasoning and searing.
Q: Can I bake this lemon butter salmon instead?
A: Absolutely! Sear the salmon briefly on the stovetop as directed (skin-side down if using), then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (around 400°F/200°C) to finish cooking (usually 8-12 minutes). Make the sauce separately on the stovetop while the salmon bakes, or pour it over before baking.
Q: What other herbs can I use besides parsley?
A: Fresh dill is a classic pairing with salmon and lemon. Chives, tarragon, or even a little fresh thyme would also be delicious variations for your lemon butter salmon.
