Garlic Butter Baked Salmon!

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra citrusy flavor)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or dried thyme

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix.

3. Season the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. If the salmon has skin, place it skin-side down. Season each fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Pour the garlic butter over the salmon: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture generously over the top of the salmon fillets. Make sure the salmon is well-coated in the sauce. If desired, you can also spoon some extra butter onto the fillets during baking for even more flavor.

5. Bake the salmon: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets. For thinner fillets, check around 12 minutes; for thicker pieces, you may need up to 15 minutes.

6. Garnish and serve: Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

Q/A Section

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

• A: Yes! You can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it first in the fridge for several hours or overnight. Once thawed, you can follow the same steps as fresh salmon. Just make sure to bake it for the same amount of time or check doneness with a fork.

Q2: What’s the best way to tell when the salmon is done?

• A: Salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque and not translucent in the center.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without butter?

• A: Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free or lighter version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or avocado oil. The flavor will still be great, just a little different.

Q4: Can I add more flavor to the garlic butter?

• A: Absolutely! You can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a bit of tang, a dash of cayenne pepper for heat, or a tablespoon of capers for a briny twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add a nice aromatic touch.

Q5: How long will leftover garlic butter baked salmon keep?

• A: Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s great for meal prep or as leftovers for lunch the next day. Reheat it gently in the microwave or in a pan with a little extra butter to keep it moist.

Tips:

• Don’t overcook the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it as oven times may vary depending on thickness. Overcooking can make it dry, so check it as it gets close to the 12-minute mark.

• Add a crispy finish: If you like a crispy top on your salmon, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

• Serve with sides: This garlic butter salmon pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.