It was a busy weeknight. The evening felt like it was closing in fast. I needed something to brighten the table and please my family quickly.
I looked in the fridge and saw plump salmon fillets. I thought about making baked lemon butter salmon. The idea of lemon and butter with salmon made me excited.
This dish promised great flavor and was healthy. I knew I could make it in just twenty minutes. It was perfect for a weeknight dinner.
What Makes Baked Lemon Butter Salmon Special?
Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is special because of its bright flavors and simple making. The mix of butter and lemon is tasty. It makes the salmon moist and tender.
Garlic adds a nice smell. It makes the salmon taste even better. This dish is great for any meal.
This dish is easy to make and takes about 30 minutes. It’s easy to clean up after. It’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a party.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | ~10 minutes |
| Baking Time | 20-25 minutes at 425°F |
| Marination Time (optional) | 10-15 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 358 kcal |
| Protein per Serving | 34 g |
| Total Fat per Serving | 22 g |
| Sodium per Serving | 747 mg |
| Common Side Dishes | Side salad, roasted veggies, rice, coleslaw |
Essential Ingredients for Your Baked Lemon Butter Salmon
Making the perfect baked salmon needs the right ingredients. These ingredients make the salmon taste great and feel good in your mouth. I pick a few important things to make this dish special.
Salmon Fillet: Choosing the Best Type
I always choose salmon fillets with skin on. The skin keeps the salmon moist and adds flavor. I prefer wild-caught salmon for its richer taste. Four 6-ounce fillets are great for a family dinner, so everyone gets a big piece.
Why Fresh Lemon Juice is Key
Fresh lemon juice is very important for the salmon’s taste. I use the juice of one medium lemon, which is about two tablespoons. This juice makes the dish better than using bottled lemon juice. The lemon’s zing balances the fish and butter perfectly.
The Role of Garlic in Flavor Enhancement
Garlic is a must in my salmon recipe. Fresh garlic cloves add flavor and a nice smell. Using two cloves in my lemon butter salmon makes every bite delicious.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Baked Lemon Butter Salmon
Making a tasty oven-baked salmon recipe is simple. Just follow a few easy steps. You’ll make a dish that everyone will love. Here’s how to make baked lemon butter salmon, from start to finish.
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
It takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Cooking time is 15 to 17 minutes, depending on the salmon’s thickness. If you want a crispy top, add a broiling step.
Exact Measurements for Ingredients
For 4 servings, you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Salmon fillet (skin-on) | 1.5 to 1.75 pounds |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Lemon juice | ¾ cup (from 2 to 3 lemons) |
| Minced garlic | 5 cloves |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking tray with foil, leaving enough to fold over the salmon.
- Place lemon slices under the salmon. Mix melted butter with garlic.
- Brush the garlic butter on the salmon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 17 minutes or until it’s 145°F inside. For a crispy top, broil for 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Flaky Salmon
Making a tasty seafood dinner with Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is easy. Just follow a few cooking tips. This will make your salmon flaky and full of flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking: Fish cooks fast, so timing is key. It’s done when it flakes with a fork. A 3-pound salmon fillet bakes in about 25 minutes at 350°F.
- Seal the Foil Packet: Seal the foil packet tight to keep moisture in. This makes the salmon juicy.
- Broiling for Texture: Broiling for a few minutes adds crunch. Watch it closely to avoid burning. Place the pan 6 inches under the broiler for best results.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Avoid Overcooking | Cook until the salmon flakes easily; about 25 minutes for a 3-pound fillet at 350°F. |
| Seal the Foil Packet | Tightly wrapping salmon helps lock in moisture and improves flavor. |
| Broiling for Texture | Broil for 3 minutes at the end of cooking for added crunch. |
Try adding sides like Greek lemon rice or herbed potatoes to your meal. These sides make the dinner even better. Leftover salmon is also great. It keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Lemon Butter Salmon
Serving Baked Lemon Butter Salmon makes the meal better. Adding sides and the right drink makes it special. Here are some ideas to make your meal better with this tasty salmon recipe.
Complementary Side Dishes
There are many sides that go well with baked salmon. Here are some favorites:
- Fresh salad tossed with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy crunch
- A light quinoa or rice dish to balance the rich salmon flavor
These sides make the meal better and add color and nutrition to your plate.
Best Wine Pairings
Choosing the right wine makes the salmon taste even better. I like a crisp white wine for this dish. Here are two great choices:
- Sauvignon Blanc: Its acidity balances the richness of the salmon and acidity from the lemon.
- Pinot Grigio: A light option that pairs beautifully without overpowering the dish.
Using these serving tips makes a simple meal into a special occasion. The baked lemon butter salmon becomes the main attraction.
Baked Lemon Butter Salmon: A Healthy Seafood Option
Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is a tasty and healthy dish. It’s full of omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are good for your heart and make it a lean protein source.
The American Heart Association says we should eat fatty fish like salmon twice a week. A serving is about half a pound. It has only 187 calories and 23 grams of protein, making it a great choice for a meal.
I love making Baked Lemon Butter Salmon because of the fresh ingredients. Lemon and garlic add flavor and health benefits. Salmon’s omega-3s keep skin hydrated and may lower inflammation. The butter adds a rich taste without ruining the health benefits.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 187 kcal | 9% |
| Protein | 23 g | 46% |
| Fat | 10 g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 103 mg | 34% |
| Sodium | 293 mg | 12% |
| Potassium | 3 mg | |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g | |
| Fiber | 0.04 g | |
| Sugar | 0.01 g | |
| Vitamin A | 200 IU | 4% |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% |
This dish meets many dietary needs and adds flavor and nutrients to my meals. I always enjoy its health benefits and taste.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
Trying new things with Baked Lemon Butter Salmon makes it exciting. There are many ways to make it better, fitting different tastes. It’s fun to try new flavors and ingredients.
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Think about adding more to make it taste even better:
- Capers add a salty, tangy flavor that goes well with salmon.
- Fresh dill makes it fresh and balances the lemon.
- A little cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick.
Substituting Ingredients for Dietary Needs
Need something special? Here are some swaps that taste great:
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free choice.
- Maple syrup is sweet and works like honey.
- Try different salmon types like sockeye or coho for unique tastes.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftover Salmon
Storing leftover healthy baked salmon right is key to keeping it tasty. Put the salmon in an airtight container after dinner. This keeps it fresh and prevents bad smells from other foods.
Reheat it at 145°F to make it safe and yummy. Here are some ways to reheat your salmon:
| Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 275°F – 300°F | 10-15 minutes |
| Air Fryer | 375°F | 5-7 minutes |
| Stovetop (non-stick skillet) | Medium-low heat | 2-3 minutes per side |
| Microwave | Medium power | 1-2 minutes (check every 30 seconds) |
| Steaming | Medium heat | 5-7 minutes |
For the oven, preheat to 325°F. Cover with foil to avoid drying. Use a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep it moist. Adding lemon juice or broth can also help.
Frozen salmon stays good for two to three months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating. This way, your leftovers will stay fresh and tasty!
Similar Easy Salmon Recipes to Try
If you liked the baked lemon butter salmon, there are more easy salmon recipes to try. They are all tasty for a seafood dinner. Here are two great options with different flavors and cooking ways.
Honey Garlic Salmon
This recipe has a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze. It’s perfect for salmon. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, great for busy nights or quick meals. The glaze gets all caramelized, adding a nice texture.
Lemon Dill Salmon with Vegetables
Lemon dill salmon is a classic with fresh lemon and dill. It’s very easy to make. You bake salmon with veggies for a full meal in under 40 minutes. The lemon and herbs make it a refreshing dish for any family dinner.
| Recipe | Total Time | Main Ingredients | Cooking Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baked Lemon Butter Salmon | 25 minutes | Salmon, butter, lemon juice, garlic | Beginner |
| Honey Garlic Salmon | 30 minutes | Salmon, honey, garlic, soy sauce | Beginner |
| Lemon Dill Salmon | 40 minutes | Salmon, lemon, dill, assorted vegetables | Beginner |
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon
Adding salmon to my meals has changed my life. It’s not just tasty; it’s full of good stuff for my health. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids. A 3-ounce serving has 1.5 to 2 grams.
The National Institutes of Health says we need 1.1 to 1.6 grams of omega-3s daily. Salmon helps us get there. It’s great for our health.
Salmon also has lots of protein. A 3-ounce serving has about 22 grams. This helps our muscles grow and recover.
It also has a lot of vitamin B12 and vitamin D. A 3-ounce serving has 2.6 micrograms of vitamin B12. This is more than 100% of what we need daily.
Salmon is low in calories, with about 155 in a 3-ounce serving. It also has potassium and selenium. This makes salmon a “Best Choice” fish, even for pregnant women.
Eating salmon two to three times a week is good for us. It’s what the Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest. Salmon is full of nutrients and helps fight inflammation.
Why I Love Making Baked Lemon Butter Salmon
I love making homemade baked salmon. This recipe is easy and quick, ready in just 20 minutes. The lemon and butter mix makes it taste amazing.
This dish is great for any time. It’s perfect for busy nights or when I have guests. Everyone loves the flavor, and I feel proud to serve it.
This recipe is special because it’s healthy and tasty. Each serving has 261 calories and 31 grams of protein. It’s a favorite because it’s good for me and delicious.
Cooking this salmon is more than just food. It’s about enjoying simple, good food in our busy lives. The flavors and quick cooking make it a favorite. Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is a joy to share with others.
Feedback from Friends and Family
Every time I make Baked Lemon Butter Salmon, I wait for feedback. My friends and family love the flavors. They say it’s a favorite for dinner.
The mix of lemon, garlic, and butter makes the salmon taste great. It’s also easy to make. This makes everyone want to try it at home.
This salmon recipe is a hit with my family. Friends want to make it for their parties. They also like to try new things with it.
It’s great to see how this recipe sparks creativity. People love to add herbs or try new sides.
This Baked Lemon Butter Salmon gets high praise. It has a 4.9 out of 5 star rating. Every positive review makes me happy to keep making it.
