Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Name: Lemon Garlic Butter 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, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon because it's a delicious way to enjoy fish that feels both indulgent and healthy. The buttery sauce, combined with the bright citrusy flavor of lemon and the aromatic garlic, creates a dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings. With just a few key ingredients and minimal effort, I can serve up a meal that's sure to impress everyone at the table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-24T18:03:18.555Z

When I made Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon for the first time, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it was. I marinated the salmon in a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and fresh lemon juice, letting it soak up all those wonderful flavors. I learned that letting the fish rest in the marinade for just 10 minutes really intensifies the taste and ensures a succulent result.

Cooking the salmon on high heat for a short duration also helped achieve that perfect sear, adding both texture and depth to the dish. I like to serve it with asparagus or a light salad, which complements the rich flavors beautifully while keeping the meal fresh and balanced.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor enhances the fresh taste of the salmon.
Buttery garlic sauce adds a rich, indulgent finish.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

      

Understanding Salmon Selection

Choosing the right salmon is key to making this dish truly shine. Look for fresh, vibrant fillets with a deep color and firm texture. If purchasing from a seafood counter, don’t hesitate to ask about the source; wild-caught salmon typically has a richer flavor compared to farmed. If you prefer a budget-friendly option, farmed salmon can still yield delicious results, especially when paired with the garlic butter sauce.

When it comes to sustainability, consider opting for salmon labeled with environmentally friendly certifications, like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). This not only supports responsible fishing practices but also ensures you're getting a quality product. Whether you choose sockeye, coho, or king salmon, be sure to adjust cooking times, as thicker cuts will require more time to cook through.

Perfecting the Garlic Butter Sauce

The garlic butter sauce is where the magic happens, and getting it just right enhances the salmon without overpowering its natural flavors. When melting the butter, keep the heat at medium to avoid browning it too much, as burnt butter can turn the sauce bitter. Stirring in the garlic just until fragrant (about a minute) keeps it from becoming raw-tasting while ensuring you capture that aromatic goodness.

Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re watching your saturated fat intake, substituting the butter with a mix of olive oil and unsalted margarine can maintain the flavor profile while creating a lighter version of the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it with a fresh green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette. If you're in the mood for something heartier, consider pairing it with roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes. A wild grain blend can also elevate the dish while adding texture and nutrients.

If you're looking to take this recipe up a notch, try adding sliced tomatoes or spinach to the skillet while the salmon cooks for added color and nutrition. Additionally, experimenting with herbs like thyme or dill in the sauce can provide a delightful twist. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, making it a perfect option for meal prep.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

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, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the garlic butter sauce over them. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove salmon from the marinade, reserving the sauce, and place the fillets in the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes on each side or until the salmon is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Transfer the salmon to a serving platter, drizzle with the reserved garlic butter sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your salmon seems to stick to the skillet, it may not have been heated sufficiently before adding the fillets. Always preheat your skillet until it’s hot enough to sizzle when the salmon touches it. Additionally, using a well-seasoned or non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and ensure that you can flip the fish without losing any of that beautiful crust.

If your salmon isn't cooking evenly, check the thickness of your fillets. A thicker piece may need a few extra minutes on the stove. You can also turn the heat down to medium if you see the outside cooking too rapidly before the inside is done; this allows the salmon to cook more evenly.

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time on busy nights, you can prepare the marinade in advance. Store the garlic butter sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to give it a gentle reheat before marinating the salmon to bring back its luscious texture. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves precious time during meal prep.

While salmon is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen if you're planning ahead. Once cooked, allow the salmon to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Frozen salmon can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in the skillet or microwave to maintain moisture.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up or down is quite simple. Just remember to keep the same ratio of ingredients to ensure consistent flavor. For example, if you’re cooking for a crowd and need to double the recipe, use eight fillets and increase the butter, garlic, and lemon accordingly. A larger skillet or multiple pans might be necessary to avoid overcrowding, which allows for even cooking.

Conversely, if you're looking to make a single serving, halving the quantities works perfectly. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as smaller fillets may cook faster. Pay attention to visual cues, like the color changing from bright pink to a pale orange, to determine doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, ensure to thaw the frozen salmon completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What herbs can I use instead of parsley?

You can use dill or chives as great alternatives for garnishing the salmon.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and marinate the salmon ahead of time, cooking it just before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice.