Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs infuses the salmon with rich, savory flavors.
Healthy Choice: Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein.
Minimal Cleanup: Baking in foil or parchment paper makes for easy cleanup.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to rice or salad.

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salmon fillets
Unsalted butter
Garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Dried thyme
Dried rosemary
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Arrange Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down, leaving space between each fillet.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
Apply Sauce: Spoon the garlic butter sauce evenly over each salmon fillet.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a bit of heat.
Herb Substitutions: Swap thyme and rosemary with dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
Citrus Twist: Use lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a unique citrus flavor.
Add Vegetables: Include asparagus or cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet for a one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.

What type of salmon is best for baking?

Both wild-caught and farm-raised salmon work well. Wild-caught salmon tends to be leaner with a more robust flavor, while farm-raised is fattier and milder.

Can I prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.

Is it necessary to use parchment paper or foil?

While not mandatory, using parchment paper or foil helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Yes, feel free to experiment with herbs like dill, basil, or oregano to suit your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with garlic butter baked salmon?

Common pairings include roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Can I cook this recipe on the grill?

Yes, wrap the salmon and sauce in foil packets and grill over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Certainly. Cooked salmon can be stored and reheated for meals throughout the week.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter provides a richer flavor, margarine can be used as a substitute if preferred.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a delightful and versatile dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the tender, flaky salmon infused with the rich taste of garlic and herbs, and pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience.