Lemon Butter Salmon Dinner Recipe
Introduction
Is there anything more satisfying than a perfectly cooked piece of salmon drizzled with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce? This Lemon Butter Salmon recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and dinner guests alike.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional Ingredients for Variation
- Asparagus or green beans for roasting
- Capers for added tanginess
- A splash of white wine in the sauce
Preparation Steps
Prepping the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking.
Preparing the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Add chopped parsley and remove from heat.
Cooking Instructions
Stovetop Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the salmon before serving.
Oven-Baked
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Pour the lemon butter sauce over the salmon before serving.
Grilling Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the salmon with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the salmon for about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Finish with the lemon butter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Side Dishes
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- A fresh garden salad
Garnishing Tips
- Fresh lemon slices
- Additional chopped parsley
- A sprinkle of paprika for color
Tips and Tricks
How to Select Fresh Salmon
- Look for vibrant, firm flesh.
- The salmon should smell fresh, not fishy.
- If buying whole fish, check that the eyes are clear and the gills are bright red.
Storing Leftover Salmon
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently to avoid drying out the salmon.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3 grams
Key Nutrients
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin D
- B Vitamins (B6 and B12)
- Selenium
0 Comments