Imagine a dinner so effortless yet incredibly delicious that it looks like you've spent hours in the kitchen. This Easy Garlic Herb Butter Baked Salmon is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes! Whether you're a busy professional, a home cook looking to impress, or someone who wants a healthy and flavorful dinner, this recipe is your ultimate culinary shortcut to a mouthwatering seafood experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your salmon cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a flavorful garlic herb butter mixture.
- Place the salmon fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin-side down. Make sure they are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
- Using a spoon or a brush, generously drizzle the garlic herb butter mixture over each salmon fillet, ensuring they are well-coated. Reserve a small amount of the mixture for drizzling later, if desired.
- Once the salmon is coated, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- If you like a crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle any reserved garlic herb butter over the top for extra flavor.
- Serve the baked salmon with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Easy Garlic Herb Butter Baked Salmon!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Always select high-quality, fresh salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Room Temperature Matters: Let your salmon sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.
- Don't Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. Watch for the fish to become opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Herb Butter Hack: For extra flavor, you can prepare the garlic herb butter mixture in advance and refrigerate.
- Broiling Technique: If you want a slightly crispy top, use the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with light, complementary sides like roasted asparagus or a fresh lemon-herb rice to complete your meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 34g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
