Garlic Butter Salmon Dinner: A Flavorful Fish Recipe You’ll Love
This Garlic Butter Salmon Dinner is simple, elegant, and packed with rich, buttery flavor. Tender salmon fillets are pan-seared (or baked) and smothered in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with fresh herbs and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 5–6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (plus lemon slices for serving)
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried thyme
1–2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Optional sides:
Steamed asparagus, green beans, or broccoli
Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted baby potatoes
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes without moving it.
Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes, until golden and just cooked through.
Remove salmon from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium.
Add butter to the same skillet.
Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Combine
Return salmon to the skillet.
Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the fillets.
Simmer for 1–2 minutes so the salmon absorbs the flavor.
- Finish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with lemon slices and your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Salmon
Don’t overcook—salmon should flake easily and remain moist.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
For extra richness, add a splash of cream or white wine to the sauce.
Serving Idea
Serve this garlic butter salmon with roasted vegetables and a light salad for a balanced, restaurant-style meal at home.