Indulge in this delightful Buttery Lemon Salmon, perfect for any occasion. This dish features salmon fillets seared to perfection and bathed in a rich, zesty garlic lemon butter sauce. Simple yet full of vibrant flavours, it’s an impressive dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Fresh lemon juice and zest enhance the salmon’s natural taste, while a hint of garlic and fresh parsley bring out its best qualities.
Buttery Lemon Salmon
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin-on or skinless
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added depth of flavour)
For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 2 lemons)
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.Step 2: Sear the Salmon
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable.
Sear for 3-4 minutes without moving the fillets to create a golden-brown crust.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Mix in the lemon juice and zest, letting the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
Serve the salmon with a generous drizzle of the garlic lemon butter sauce, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Feel free to add any fresh or dry herbs you like to the butter sauce. Make it your own.
