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Quick Garlic Butter Salmon with Lemon: An Easy 15-Minute Dinner

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This quick garlic butter salmon with lemon is a fast, foolproof dinner that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes. With a golden sear and a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (56g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (juice and zest)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (5g)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (2g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon (2 minutes): Take salmon fillets out of the fridge and let them sit on the counter for about 5 minutes to take the chill off. Pat them very dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce (1 minute): In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
  3. Heat the Pan (1 minute): Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Wait until the oil is shimmering and just starting to smoke.
  4. Sear the Salmon (4-5 minutes): Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot pan, skin-side down if they have skin. Do not move them. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms and the fish releases easily.
  5. Flip and Add the Butter (3 minutes): Flip the fillets gently. Add the garlic butter mixture to the pan. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the hot butter over the tops of the fillets for about 2 minutes.
  6. Add the Lemon Juice (30 seconds): Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the pan. Let it sizzle and combine with the butter for about 30 seconds.
  7. Check for Doneness (30 seconds): The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium or 135°F (57°C) for well-done.
  8. Rest and Serve (1 minute): Transfer the salmon to a plate and spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Let it rest for a minute. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the salmon very dry for a good sear. Do not crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Add garlic after flipping to prevent burning. Use an instant-read thermometer for perfect doneness. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick garlic butter salmon, lemon salmon, easy salmon recipe, 15-minute dinner, weeknight dinner, garlic butter sauce, salmon fillet

Find it online: https://sizzlesprout.com/quick-garlic-butter-salmon-with-lemon-an-easy-15-minute-dinner/