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Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

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Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a quick and elegant recipe that pairs the rich flavor of salmon with a creamy, tangy lemon butter sauce. With a crispy sear and a buttery garlic finish, this dish is perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and butter elevates the natural taste of salmon for a memorable meal.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin-on or skinless

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

1/2 cup unsalted butter

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).

  • Sear the Salmon: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon fillets into the skillet, skin-side down (if they have skin). Sear for 3-4 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the fillets and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.

  • Finish Cooking in the Oven: If using an oven-safe skillet, transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). If not, transfer the salmon fillets to an oven-safe dish. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked to your desired doneness.

  • Prepare the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice and zest, simmering for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Combine and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the skillet or dish. Pour the garlic lemon butter sauce over the salmon and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

  • You can substitute the parsley with fresh dill or thyme.

  • For a lighter version, swap butter for olive oil in the sauce.