Name: Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
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; ½ tsp cracked black pepper (plus extra to serve); ½ tsp chilli (red pepper) flakes (optional); 4 fillets skin-on salmon; mashed potatoes (Freezer-friendly); steamed greens; leafy green salad (sprinkled with parmesan (optional)); fresh lemon slices; fresh flat-leaf (Italian) parsley (finely chopped)

Introduction to Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Finding quick yet delicious meals can be a real game-changer for busy young professionals. Enter Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon — a delightful dish that not only fits into your hectic schedule but also satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal clean-up, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 20 minutes.

Salmon is not just tasty; it’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for heart health and brain function. According to the American Heart Association, including fish in your diet can also help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. By pairing it with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, this recipe elevates the flavor while keeping it bright and fresh.

Moreover, this dish can easily be customized. Serve it alongside some creamy freezer-friendly mashed potatoes or a vibrant salad for a complete meal that meets all your dining needs. What’s better than a meal that’s easy to prepare and makes you feel good? So, let’s dive into this recipe and make your weeknight dinners a little more exciting!

Ingredients for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Essential ingredients for creating flavorful salmon

When it comes to crafting delicious Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, having the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter and extra-virgin olive oil form the base of your marinade, infusing the salmon with rich flavor.
Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, while minced garlic brings an aromatic punch.
A touch of honey balances the acidity, and sweet paprika adds warmth.
Dried oregano, sea salt flakes, and cracked black pepper round out the seasoning, enhancing the salmon's natural taste.
To give it a bit of heat, consider a sprinkle of chili flakes (optional).

This combination not only elevates the salmon but also complements any sides you might choose, like mashed potatoes or a refreshing salad.

Fresh versus frozen salmon: What’s the difference?

When deciding between fresh and frozen salmon, freshness can impact flavor and texture. Fresh salmon usually has a more delicate, buttery texture, while frozen salmon is often equally nutritious and convenient, making it a great option for meal prepping. Just ensure you choose a reputable source to maintain quality. If you’re looking for sustainable options, consider checking out resources like the Monterey Bay Seafood Watch.

Whatever you choose, both types work beautifully in your Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe!

Preparing Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a flavorful, delightful dish that's not just easy to prepare but also impressively elegant. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, let’s dive into how you can make this dish step-by-step!

Preheat Your Oven

To kick things off, the first step is preheating your oven to a hot 220°C (425°F) or 200°C (400°F) if you're using a fan-forced setting. This is a crucial step—making sure your oven is ready helps the salmon cook evenly and achieve that perfectly flaky texture. Give your oven about 20 minutes to fully heat up while you prep the rest of the ingredients.

Mix the Lemon Garlic Butter

While waiting for your oven, it’s time to whip up your delicious lemon garlic butter. In a mixing bowl, combine:

2 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon sea salt flakes
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
½ teaspoon chili flakes (if you love a bit of heat)

Mix all these ingredients until well combined, and you’ll have a buttery marinade that’s bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with salmon. You might even want to double the batch for extra dipping later!

Prepare the Salmon

Now it’s time to prepare your salmon fillets. Place 4 skin-on salmon fillets skin-side down in a roasting tin. This helps the skin crisp up nicely while protecting the tender flesh from drying out. Plus, the skin adds flavor and texture, so don’t skip it!

Marinade Application

Take that luscious lemon garlic butter you just made and spoon it generously over the top of the salmon. Try to cover it evenly for maximum flavor infusion. As you're doing this, you might find yourself daydreaming about how great this will taste once it’s done—let your excitement build!

Baking and Broiling the Salmon

Slide your roasting tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes. After that, turn on the oven grill (broiler) to high and cook for an additional 3 minutes. This will give the salmon a beautiful caramelized finish, sealing in all those zesty flavors and juices. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook—it should flake easily with a fork when done.

Serve It Right!

Once cooked, serve your Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with some creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh leafy green salad drizzled with parmesan. To elevate the dish, don’t forget some fresh lemon slices and finely chopped parsley on top for that vibrant finishing touch.

And voila! Your delightful salmon dish is ready to be enjoyed—perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself!

Variations on Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Adding Different Herbs and Spices

Elevate your Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon by experimenting with herbs and spices! Try fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary for a delightful aroma. Alternatively, adding a pinch of cumin or turmeric can give it an exotic twist. Don't hesitate to mix and match; culinary creativity can lead to delicious discoveries. A dash of ginger or a sprinkle of coriander can turn this easy dish into a gourmet experience.

Using Different Types of Fish

While salmon shines in this recipe, you can also use trout, cod, or even tilapia as fantastic alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time slightly—more delicate fish may require less time in the oven. Whichever fish you choose, the flavorful lemon-garlic butter will make every bite satisfying and rich. Explore different textures and tastes for fresh takes on this classic dish!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Achieving the Perfect Cook on Salmon

To master the art of cooking Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, it’s crucial to balance time and temperature. Preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F) ensures even cooking. Salmon fillets typically take 12 minutes at this temperature. For that coveted golden top, broil for an additional 3 minutes. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still remain moist inside.

Ways to Avoid Overcooking

Overcooked salmon can become dry and unappetizing, so here are a few tips to help you avoid that:

Check doneness early: Always start checking the salmon a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time.
Use a thermometer: Ideally, your salmon should reach an internal temperature of 50°C (120°F) for medium-rare or 60°C (145°F) for well-done.
Let it rest: After removing the salmon from the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain its juices.

By following these steps, you’ll serve up perfectly cooked salmon every time. For more culinary tips, explore this handy guide on seafood cooking techniques.

Serving suggestions for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Pairing salmon with sides

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with delightful sides. Creamy freezer-friendly mashed potatoes are a perfect match, adding a buttery richness that complements the salmon’s flavor. For a fresher touch, opt for steamed greens or a vibrant leafy green salad, which provide balance and nutrition.

Garnishing for visual appeal

Presentation matters! Brighten up your dish with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley. These simple garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide an extra punch of flavor. When guests see your beautifully presented dinner, they'll be eager to dig in!

Time Breakdown for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up this delightful dish will take you about 10 minutes. You’ll want to gather your ingredients and mix the lemon garlic butter, which is the star of the show.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the actual baking time is around 15 minutes—just pop that salmon in the oven until it’s perfectly cooked and caramelized.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at a quick 25 minutes from start to finish! This means you can enjoy a deliciously baked lemon garlic butter salmon dinner on even the busiest of weeknights.

For more quick meal ideas, check out this article on healthy weeknight dinners.

Nutritional Facts for Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

When it comes to enjoying Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, you’re not just indulging in a delicious meal; you’re also benefiting nutritionally. Here’s a quick glance at the key nutritional facts:

Calories: Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet guilt-free option.
Protein: Packed with about 35 grams of protein, this salmon dish is a powerhouse for muscle recovery and overall health, perfect for active young professionals.
Healthy Fats Content: With omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil and butter, this recipe promotes heart health while providing a rich flavor.

For a deeper dive into nutritional benefits, you can check out resources like Healthline and NutritionData that offer comprehensive insights into the advantages of lean proteins and healthy fats. Enjoy your meal knowing you're making a nutritious choice!

FAQs about Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Can I use other types of fish?

Absolutely! While this Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe shines with salmon, you can swap in other fish like trout or tilapia. Just be mindful of cooking times—thinner fillets may need less time in the oven, so keep an eye on them!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers from your delicious Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is simple. Place any unused salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the salmon in portions. Just be sure to label the container with the date!

What side dishes go best with salmon?

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon can elevate your meal. Consider serving:

Creamy mashed potatoes: They beautifully soak up the garlic butter sauce.
Steamed greens: Broccoli or asparagus add a splash of color and nutrition.
Leafy green salad: Opt for a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette for refreshing contrast.

For additional inspiration, check out this site for complementary recipes!

Conclusion on Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

In summary, this Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings zest and flavor to your table. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can impress guests or treat yourself to a wholesome dinner. Pair it with sides you love for a complete, nutritious meal. Don’t hesitate; try this delightful recipe today!