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Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

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3.8 from 13 reviews

This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender salmon fillets with a rich garlic butter sauce, accented by fresh lemon juice and thyme. Perfectly seared in a skillet, the salmon boasts a crispy skin and a moist interior, ideal for a healthy and satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels to remove any moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
  2. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it is hot and bubbling.
  3. Sear the Salmon: Add the salmon fillets to the skillet skin-side down. Cook without moving for about 4-5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and the salmon is cooked halfway up the sides.
  4. Flip the Salmon: Carefully turn the fillets over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Push the salmon fillets to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the minced garlic to the empty side of the pan.
  6. Sauté Garlic: Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  7. Add Lemon Juice and Thyme: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and dried (or fresh) thyme. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets to coat them in flavor.
  8. Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the salmon with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Plate the salmon fillets and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, ensure the salmon skin is well dried before cooking.
  • You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme as noted; adjust quantity accordingly.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
  • Cook salmon skin-side down first to protect the flesh and help retain moisture.
  • Do not overcook the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley to add color and a mild herbaceous note.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/garlic-butter-salmon-recipe/