Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon has become a staple in our home, and for very good reason. It’s one of those recipes that effortlessly balances simplicity and sophistication, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve to guests. The first time I made this, I was honestly blown away by how such minimal effort could yield such profoundly flavorful results. My family, usually a tough crowd when it comes to fish, devoured it. Even my youngest, who once declared salmon “too fishy,” asked for seconds! The aroma that fills the kitchen as the garlic butter melts and infuses the salmon is simply intoxicating, a promise of the deliciousness to come. Since then, it’s been a regular feature on our menu, tweaked and perfected to become our go-to salmon dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Trust me, your taste buds (and your family!) will thank you.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

• Salmon Fillets: 1.5 – 2 pounds, skin on or off, about 1-1.5 inches thick. The star of the show! Choose fillets that are vibrant in color and firm to the touch for the best flavor and texture.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened. Forms the rich and flavorful base of our garlic butter sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish precisely.
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced. The aromatic powerhouse that infuses the butter and salmon with that signature garlic butter flavor. Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the best taste.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons. Brightens the dish with acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter and enhancing the salmon’s natural flavor. Freshly squeezed is always preferred.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. Adds a pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color. Flat-leaf parsley is recommended for its robust flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste. Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Kosher salt or sea salt are excellent choices.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Adds a subtle spice and enhances the overall flavor profile. Freshly ground pepper provides a more robust aroma and taste.
• Optional: Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Can be used to lightly coat the baking dish or salmon to prevent sticking and add a touch of richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

This Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights. Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for roasting salmon, ensuring it cooks through while staying moist and tender. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking dish. You can use a baking sheet or a shallow baking dish. Line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. This step is optional but highly recommended as it prevents the salmon from sticking and makes washing up a breeze.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter: While the oven is heating, it’s time to make the luscious garlic butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and minced garlic. Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Using a fork or a small whisk, mash the garlic into the butter until it’s evenly distributed. The warmth of your hands can also help soften the butter further if needed. Next, add the fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the garlic butter mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the butter is fragrant with garlic and herbs. This garlic butter is the flavor bomb that will transform your salmon.
3. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear and preventing the salmon from steaming in its own moisture. Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish. If your salmon has skin on, you can choose to roast it skin-side down or skin-side up depending on your preference. Skin-side down will result in crispier skin if you intend to eat it, while skin-side up is often preferred if you want the skin to easily separate after cooking. If using olive oil (optional), lightly brush or drizzle it over the salmon fillets at this stage. This can add a touch of extra richness and help the garlic butter adhere better.
4. Smother Salmon with Garlic Butter: Now for the best part – generously spread the prepared garlic butter evenly over the top of each salmon fillet. Make sure each fillet is nicely coated with the fragrant mixture. If you have extra garlic butter, you can even place small pats underneath the salmon fillets in the baking dish; as it melts, it will further infuse the salmon with flavor from below. Don’t be shy with the garlic butter; it’s what makes this dish incredibly flavorful and keeps the salmon moist during roasting.
5. Roast the Salmon to Perfection: Place the baking dish with the garlic butter-smothered salmon in the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. A good rule of thumb is about 4-6 minutes of cooking time per half-inch of thickness. You’ll know the salmon is done when it changes from translucent to opaque and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to slightly undercook it as it will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
6. Rest and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a lemon wedge for an added touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon!

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon (Per Serving)

(Based on 4 servings, using approximately 6 oz salmon fillet per serving. Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 1 Salmon Fillet (approx. 6 oz cooked)
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories per serving. This provides a substantial and satisfying meal without being overly high in calories, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.
• Protein: 40-50 grams. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall bodily functions.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Rich in Omega-3s. Salmon is renowned for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• Vitamin D: Excellent source of Vitamin D. Salmon is one of the few food sources naturally rich in Vitamin D, important for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
• Selenium: Good source of Selenium. Selenium is an essential trace mineral and antioxidant that plays a role in thyroid function and protecting against cell damage.

Preparation Time for Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This recipe is incredibly quick to prepare. Most of the time is spent mincing garlic and mixing the garlic butter, which are very fast tasks.
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes. Roasting time is relatively short, making it perfect for a fast weeknight meal.
• Total Time: Approximately 22-25 minutes. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and healthy Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon on the table in under half an hour! This makes it an ideal choice for busy individuals and families who want a nutritious and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Vegetables:
  • Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus roasted alongside the salmon in the oven is a classic and healthy pairing.
  • Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a fresh and vibrant green side that complements the richness of the salmon.
  • Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed or roasted green beans with garlic echo the garlic butter flavor of the salmon and add a delightful crunch.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a slightly bitter and nutty counterpoint to the rich salmon.
  • Lemon Herb Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, seasoned with lemon and herbs, creates a colorful and flavorful side.
• Grains and Starches:
  • Quinoa: A healthy and protein-rich grain that soaks up the delicious garlic butter sauce from the salmon.
  • Rice (White or Brown): Steamed rice is a simple and comforting base to serve with the salmon and sauce. Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and more fiber.
  • Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous is another great grain option that pairs well with the flavors of the salmon.
  • Roasted Potatoes: Classic roasted potatoes, whether diced or wedges, provide a hearty and satisfying side. Consider roasting them with herbs like rosemary or thyme.
  • Creamy Polenta: Smooth and creamy polenta creates a luxurious bed for the flaky salmon and garlic butter sauce.
• Salads:
  • Simple Green Salad: A fresh and crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
  • Caprese Salad: The fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil of a Caprese salad offer a light and flavorful Italian-inspired side.
  • Cucumber and Dill Salad: A cool and refreshing cucumber and dill salad is a perfect palate cleanser alongside the rich salmon.
  • Lemon Arugula Salad: Peppery arugula with a bright lemon dressing complements the salmon beautifully.
• Sauces (Optional):
  • Lemon Wedges: Always a great addition to squeeze extra fresh lemon juice over the salmon just before serving.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy tzatziki sauce can add a Mediterranean twist and refreshing element.
  • Aioli: Garlic aioli can further enhance the garlic flavor and add extra richness.

Additional Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

To elevate your Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon from good to absolutely amazing, consider these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Choose High-Quality Salmon: The quality of your salmon significantly impacts the final dish. Opt for fresh, wild-caught or sustainably raised salmon whenever possible. Look for fillets that are vibrant in color, firm to the touch, and have a fresh, clean smell. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking and pat it very dry.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Give your salmon fillets space in the baking dish. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less crispy edges and potentially uneven cooking. If you are cooking a large amount of salmon, use two baking dishes or bake in batches.
3. Adjust Garlic to Your Taste: While this recipe calls for 4-5 cloves of garlic, feel free to adjust the amount to your personal preference. If you love garlic, you can add more. For a milder garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic. Roasting garlic mellows its flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
4. Enhance the Flavor with Herbs and Spices: While parsley is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, thyme, chives, or rosemary. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter can add a subtle kick. Lemon zest can also amplify the citrus notes.
5. Broil for Crispy Edges (Optional): For extra crispy edges and a slightly caramelized top, you can broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Keep a very close eye on it while broiling to prevent burning, as broiling can quickly go from perfectly browned to burnt.
6. Use a Meat Thermometer for Perfect Doneness: The most accurate way to ensure your salmon is cooked perfectly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. Salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). However, many chefs recommend slightly undercooking it to around 135-140°F (57-60°C) as it will continue to cook as it rests, resulting in more moist and tender salmon.
7. Rest the Salmon Before Serving: Allowing the salmon to rest for a couple of minutes after roasting is crucial. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Cover it loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm.
8. Make Extra Garlic Butter: Garlic butter is incredibly versatile! Make a double batch and use leftovers to drizzle over vegetables, pasta, bread, or even steak or chicken. It also freezes well, so you can have flavorful garlic butter on hand whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Pat the thawed salmon very dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe, as frozen salmon tends to release more moisture.

Q2: I don’t have fresh parsley. Can I use dried parsley?

A: While fresh parsley provides the best flavor and bright green color, you can substitute dried parsley if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for every tablespoon of fresh parsley. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so use them sparingly. Fresh herbs are always preferred when possible for the most vibrant taste.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to roast with the salmon in the same pan?

A: Yes, roasting vegetables alongside the salmon is a great way to make a complete one-pan meal. Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and sliced onions roast well with salmon. Consider adding denser vegetables like potatoes or carrots that take longer to cook first, and then add the salmon and quicker-cooking vegetables later in the roasting process. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

Q4: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

A: The easiest way to tell if salmon is cooked is to check for flakiness. Gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet and twist lightly. If the salmon flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s done. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as salmon can become dry. It’s better to slightly undercook it as it will continue to cook as it rests.

Q5: Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely prepare the garlic butter in advance. In fact, making it ahead of time can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together. You can prepare the garlic butter up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before using.

Q6: What wine pairings go well with Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon?

A: Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of wines. Dry white wines are generally a great choice, especially those with good acidity to cut through the richness of the butter. Consider:
* Sauvignon Blanc: Its citrusy and herbaceous notes complement the lemon and parsley in the dish.
* Pinot Grigio: Light and crisp, it won’t overpower the delicate salmon flavor.
* Unoaked Chardonnay: Offers a bit more body than Pinot Grigio but still maintains freshness.
* Rosé: A dry rosé with good fruit and acidity can also be a lovely pairing, especially for a lighter meal.

Q7: Can I use different types of salmon for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use different types of salmon, such as Atlantic salmon, Sockeye salmon, Coho salmon, or King salmon. Each type has a slightly different flavor and fat content. Atlantic salmon is generally fattier and milder in flavor, while Sockeye is leaner and has a more pronounced “salmon” taste. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the thickness of the fillets.

Q8: Is Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon healthy?

A: Yes, Garlic Butter Roasted Salmon can be part of a healthy diet. Salmon is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and selenium, all of which offer significant health benefits. While butter adds richness and flavor, using unsalted butter and controlling the portion size can help keep the dish balanced. Pairing it with plenty of vegetables further enhances its nutritional value. You can also lighten it up by using less butter or substituting part of the butter with olive oil.

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