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Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

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A quick and forgiving weeknight dinner featuring pan-seared salmon fillets in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with lemon and herbs. Ready in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds salmon fillets (wild-caught Atlantic or Sockeye preferred, approx. 1-inch thick)
  • 1/4 cup (half a stick) unsalted butter
  • 4 to 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large lemon (half for juice, half for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Place a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot for about one minute.
  3. Add olive oil and half of the butter to the hot pan. Swirl to coat. Once the butter foams but hasn’t browned, place salmon fillets in the pan skin-side down. Press gently for 10 seconds to prevent curling.
  4. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
  5. Carefully flip the fillets. Immediately add minced garlic and remaining butter to the pan. Tilt pan to pool butter with garlic.
  6. Spoon the hot garlic butter sauce over the fish repeatedly (basting) and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Check for doneness: salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove pan from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish. Sprinkle with dried parsley and red pepper flakes.
  9. Let rest for 1 minute, then plate and serve with remaining garlic butter sauce and lemon wedges.

Notes

Patting the fish dry is crucial for a good sear; wet fish will steam. Do not touch the fish while it sears to allow a crust to form. Add garlic after flipping to prevent burning. If using a stainless steel or cast iron pan, ensure it is well-seasoned and use enough oil to prevent sticking. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days and reheated gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter salmon, quick dinner, weeknight meals, healthy seafood, 15 minute recipes, keto friendly, gluten free

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/easy-15-minute-garlic-butter-salmon-recipe/