Nothing says comfort like Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon sizzling in a pan. The butter melts into a silky sauce, the lemon adds brightness, and the garlic gives that rich aroma we all crave. This dish turns any weeknight into something special without extra fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Done in under 20 minutes.
• Crispy outside, tender inside.
• Bright lemon flavor cuts the richness perfectly.
• Uses everyday ingredients you already have.
• Pairs beautifully with almost any side.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Step	Time
Prep	10 mins
Cook	15 mins
Total	25 mins

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional swaps:

• Use lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Swap butter with ghee for a nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pat the salmon dry and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear salmon, skin-side down, for 4–5 minutes until crisp. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes.
4. Reduce heat, then add butter and minced garlic. Stir gently for 30 seconds.
5. Pour in lemon juice, spooning the melted garlic butter over the salmon.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon with roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad. Add a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a bright pairing.

Quick Tips or Variations

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
• Bake at 400°F for 12 minutes instead of pan-searing.
• Sprinkle Parmesan before serving for a rich finish.

FAQs

1. How to cook salmon with lemon and garlic?
Sear the salmon in olive oil, then add garlic, butter, and lemon juice for flavor. Baste with the sauce for even richness.

2. What are the most common salmon marinade mistakes?
Over-marinating and using too much acid can “cook” the salmon before it hits the pan. Limit marinades to 15–30 minutes.

3. What sides go with garlic butter salmon?
Perfect sides include roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or simple garlic bread for soaking up that buttery sauce.

4. Do you squeeze lemon on salmon before or after cooking?
Add lemon juice during cooking for flavor balance, and finish with a squeeze afterward for brightness.

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is all about simplicity and flavor. With golden edges, buttery garlic sauce, and that hint of lemon, it’s proof that home cooking doesn’t need to be complicated just made with heart.

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