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.
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
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.
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.