Name: Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lb salmon filet; 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened); 4 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 1 lemon (zested and cut into wedges)

Introduction to Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Are you tired of greasy fast food and its empty calories? If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game, homemade garlic butter baked salmon is a game changer! Not only is it quick to prepare, but this dish also promises flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction that fast food can't match. By choosing to bake your own salmon, you're in control of the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome meal.

Why Homemade Salmon Beats Fast Food?

Freshness and Quality: When you cook at home, you know exactly what goes into your meal. The quality of the salmon is often superior to what you find in fast food. Fresh fish is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health, and there are plenty of studies highlighting their benefits (American Heart Association).
Customization: Want less garlic or a hint of spice? The beauty of homemade recipes is the ability to tailor them according to your taste. With this garlic butter baked salmon, you can adjust the flavors to please your palate.
Time and Effort: Did you know this meal takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish? It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty without the hassle.

By whipping up a delicious garlic butter baked salmon, you're not just making dinner; you're investing in your health and well-being. So, let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Essential ingredients for a flavorful dish

Creating a garlic butter baked salmon dish that bursts with flavor starts with some key ingredients. You will need:

1.5 lb salmon filet: Fresh salmon is the star of this recipe, providing a rich, buttery flavor.
4 tablespoon unsalted butter: Softened butter is essential for that velvety texture we all love.
4 garlic cloves: Minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the whole dish.
1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper: Seasoning is crucial to balance the flavors and enhance the natural taste of the salmon.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of freshness and color.
1 lemon: Zested and cut into wedges, lemon brightens the dish and complements the butter beautifully.

Optional add-ins for enhanced taste

While the essential ingredients create a fantastic base for your garlic butter baked salmon, consider enhancing it with additional flavors. Try adding:

Crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
Dill or thyme for an herbal touch
Capers for a tangy twist

These simple tweaks can make your dish stand out! If you're curious about refining your culinary skills, check out The Kitchn, a great resource for tips and tricks on cooking salmon and elevating your home-cooked meals.

Preparing Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

If you're looking for a quick and incredibly tasty dinner that feels a bit fancy but is super easy to pull off, you've come to the right place! Garlic butter baked salmon is a dish that combines healthy ingredients with delightful flavors, perfect for busy young professionals. Let’s dive right into the steps for preparing this delicious meal!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it's essential to have everything at hand. For this garlic butter baked salmon recipe, you will need:

1.5 lb of salmon filet
4 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, zested and cut into wedges

Make a quick trip to your favorite grocery store or market, where you'll likely find all these fresh and flavorful ingredients. Not only will you enjoy cooking, but you're also investing in a nutritious meal!

Preheat the Oven

Once your ingredients are gathered, it’s time to set the stage for cooking. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This step is crucial because a hot oven guarantees that the salmon cooks evenly and quickly—perfect for those hectic weeknights when you don’t have much time. According to the USDA, salmon should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F, ensuring it’s both safe and delicious.

Prepare the Salmon

Next, arrange the salmon on a baking sheet. Here's a little tip: pat the salmon dry with a paper towel to ensure a nice sear. If you want to make cleanup easy (and who doesn't?), lining your baking sheet with foil is a great option. This prevents sticking and saves you time scrubbing later!

Create the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and lemon zest. This creamy, aromatic concoction is the star of your garlic butter baked salmon. The garlic and lemon zest create a fantastic aromatic punch you won't want to skip!

Assemble and Bake the Salmon

Now for the fun part! Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the salmon using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Don’t be shy—load it on! Bake the salmon for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your filet, until that internal temperature hits 145 degrees F. The salmon should flake easily with a fork. Once you pull it out of the oven, don’t forget to squeeze those lemon wedges over the top before serving for that blast of freshness.

In a nutshell, this garlic butter baked salmon is not just about feeding your hunger; it's an experience of flavors and aromas that bring comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy your meal! If you're looking for more inspiration, take a look at sites like Food Network or Serious Eats for additional cooking tips and techniques.

Variations on Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

When it comes to garlic butter baked salmon, the possibilities are endless! Here are a couple of delicious variations that can take your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

Lemon Herb Variation

Brighten up your salmon with a lemon herb variation. Simply add fresh rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter mix. The aromatic herbs will complement the buttery richness and create a lovely flavor layer. Squeeze extra lemon juice before serving for that zesty kick.

Spicy Garlic Butter Variation

For those who crave a little heat, try a spicy garlic butter variation. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture. This spicy twist adds excitement and pairs perfectly with the tender salmon. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables to balance the flavors.

Exploring these variations not only enhances your dining experience but also allows you to cater to different taste preferences!

Cooking tips and notes for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Achieving the perfect salmon texture

To ensure your garlic butter baked salmon turns out flaky and tender, consider the thickness of your filet. If it's thicker than an inch, you might need to adjust your baking time slightly. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness. Remember, resting the salmon for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing its moistness.

Importance of fresh ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial in elevating your garlic butter baked salmon. Fresh garlic not only adds robust flavor but also packs more nutrients than dried. Opt for high-quality butter and fresh parsley to complement the dish beautifully. For a quick tip, tucking some lemon slices underneath the salmon while it bakes can infuse a delightful citrus aroma, enhancing the overall taste. Want more tips on ingredient freshness? Check out this guide.

Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Pairing with sides

To create a well-rounded meal with your garlic butter baked salmon, consider pairing it with seasonal veggies and grains. Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients, while fluffy quinoa or a creamy risotto provides a hearty base. For a simple yet refreshing complement, prepare a side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to echo the salmon's flavors.

Ideal garnishes for presentation

Make your dish visually stunning by garnishing the garlic butter baked salmon with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Lemon wedges not only enhance the aesthetic but also allow your guests to enjoy an extra burst of citrus. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a hint of warmth and tell your diner, "this is a dish to savor!" Elevating your presentation with these simple touches makes all the difference in impressing friends and family alike.

For more inspiration, check out this guide on side dish pairings and garnish ideas!

Time breakdown for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Preparation time

Getting your ingredients ready for this garlic butter baked salmon is a breeze! You’ll only need about 5 minutes to prep, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Cooking time

The real magic happens in the oven. Cook your salmon for approximately 12-15 minutes until it flakily melts in your mouth and reaches that perfect internal temperature of 145°F.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at just 20 minutes from start to finish. That’s hardly any time at all to whip up a delicious and nutritious meal! Perfect for when life gets busy but you still want something homemade.

For more cooking tips and insights, check out Bon Appétit for helpful kitchen advice!

Nutritional Facts for Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

When you're whipping up this garlic butter baked salmon, you'll be pleased to know it offers a nutritious punch along with delicious flavor. Here’s the scoop on what you can expect per serving:

Calories

Each serving of this savory dish contains approximately 357 calories, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting option for dinner.

Protein

Packed with nutrition, you'll get about 34 grams of protein from the salmon. This is a fantastic way to support muscle health and keep you feeling full longer.

Fat Content

The garlic butter baked salmon includes around 22 grams of fat, which includes healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Keep in mind that it also has 9 grams of saturated fat, but the healthy omega-3s in salmon are what make this dish truly worthwhile.

By incorporating this dish into your weekly meal rotation, you're not just treating yourself to a delicious dinner but also fueling your body with the nutrients it craves. If you're curious for more nutritional insights, check out resources from Healthline or the USDA. Enjoy cooking!

FAQs about Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

How do I know when my salmon is done?

Determining the perfect doneness of your garlic butter baked salmon can be simple. Look for an internal temperature of 145°F, which you can check with a meat thermometer. The salmon should also flake easily with a fork and have a slightly opaque color. If you're unsure, it's always better to undercook slightly, as it will continue to cook after removing from the oven.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen salmon, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. However, you can cook it from frozen by simply increasing the baking time by about 5–10 minutes. Just ensure that the garlic butter is evenly spread over the surface for maximum flavor.

What sides go well with garlic butter salmon?

Pair your garlic butter baked salmon with some fresh, steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a nutritious boost. Quinoa or a light salad can also complement the dish beautifully. For a heartier option, consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or couscous. Taking inspiration from healthy side dishes can elevate your meal even further.

Now, dive into this delicious recipe and enjoy a fantastic dinner!

Conclusion on Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

In just 20 minutes, garlic butter baked salmon transforms any dinner into a delightful experience. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it's perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Serve it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a wholesome meal. Enjoy the harmony of buttery garlic and tender salmon—a true culinary delight!