Lemon Butter Salmon Recipes
Lemon Butter Salmon Recipes
Salmon is a versatile and flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with lemon butter. This combination creates a rich, tangy, and slightly creamy dish that is easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a restaurant-quality meal, or a healthy grilled option, these three lemon butter salmon recipes will satisfy your cravings.
## **1. Classic Pan-Seared Lemon Butter Salmon**
This classic recipe features a perfectly seared salmon fillet with a golden, crispy crust, drizzled with a buttery lemon sauce. It's quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights.
### **Ingredients:**
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Salmon:** Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. **Sear the Salmon:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. **Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:** Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the lemon juice, zest, and broth, stirring well. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
4. **Combine & Serve:** Return the salmon to the pan, spooning the sauce over the fillets. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately with steamed vegetables or rice.
### **Why This Recipe Works**
- The high-heat searing locks in moisture while creating a crispy texture.
- The butter and lemon sauce enhances the salmon's natural richness.
- It's a quick, one-pan meal that's both elegant and easy.
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## **2. Baked Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon in Foil**
For a hands-off approach, baking salmon in foil keeps it moist and tender while allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. This method is perfect for meal prep or serving guests with minimal effort.
### **Ingredients:**
- 1 large salmon fillet (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 ½ lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (for subtle sweetness)
- 1 tbsp fresh chopped dill or parsley
- 1 lemon, sliced
### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat & Prepare:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, leaving extra to wrap over the salmon.
2. **Season the Salmon:** Place the salmon fillet on the foil. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, zest, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and honey. Pour this mixture over the salmon.
3. **Wrap & Bake:** Arrange lemon slices on top of the salmon, then fold the foil over to create a sealed packet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, depending on thickness.
4. **Broil for Crispiness:** Open the foil and broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for a slightly golden top.
5. **Serve:** Garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Serve with roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
### **Why This Recipe Works**
- The foil locks in moisture, ensuring tender and juicy salmon.
- The butter and honey create a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy lemon.
- It's a simple, mess-free meal that requires little cleanup.
---
## **3. Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon with Herbs**
For a smoky and charred flavor, this grilled lemon butter salmon recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or outdoor cooking. The combination of fresh herbs and lemon butter enhances the natural richness of the fish.
### **Ingredients:**
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
- Lemon slices for garnish
### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Grill:** Heat your grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. **Make the Marinade:** In a bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, lemon juice, zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.
3. **Marinate the Salmon:** Brush the marinade generously over both sides of the salmon fillets. Let them sit for 10 minutes.
4. **Grill the Salmon:** Place the salmon skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 4–5 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
5. **Serve:** Transfer to a plate, garnish with lemon slices, and serve with grilled asparagus or a fresh cucumber salad.
### **Why This Recipe Works**
- Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the salmon.
- The herb butter marinade enhances the richness while keeping the fish moist.
- It’s an easy and healthy summer meal.
---
## **Final Tips for Cooking the Perfect Lemon Butter Salmon**
1. **Choose Quality Salmon:** Fresh, wild-caught salmon has the best flavor. If using frozen, thaw it properly before cooking.
2. **Don’t Overcook:** Salmon is best when it’s tender and flaky. Aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F for medium-rare and 135–140°F for well-done.
3. **Use Fresh Lemon Juice:** Fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, more vibrant taste than bottled versions.
4. **Let It Rest:** After cooking, let the salmon sit for a couple of minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
5. **Pairing Suggestions:** Serve lemon butter salmon with roasted vegetables, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a light arugula salad for a well-balanced meal.
### **Which Recipe Should You Try?**
- **For a quick and crispy meal:** Go with the **Pan-Seared Lemon Butter Salmon**.
- **For a fuss-free, tender dish:** The **Baked Lemon Butter Salmon in Foil** is your best bet.
- **For a smoky, grilled flavor:** Try the **Grilled Lemon Butter Salmon with Herbs**.
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