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Easy Flaky Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Recipe

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This easy lemon garlic butter salmon comes together in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it delivers a golden, crispy crust and tender, flaking fish in a bright, buttery sauce.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Prep the Salmon (5 minutes): Take salmon fillets out of the fridge about 10 minutes before cooking. Pat them very dry on all sides with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. If skin-on, score the skin lightly with a sharp knife in a few places.
  2. Get the Pan Hot (2 minutes): Place a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it get hot and shimmering, but not smoking.
  3. Start the Sear (4-6 minutes): Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot pan, presentation side down (skin-side down if skin-on). Press down gently with a spatula for about 10 seconds. Cook undisturbed for 4-6 minutes until the edges look opaque and the bottom is deep golden brown.
  4. Flip and Add the Flavor (2 minutes): Gently flip the fillets using a fish spatula. Add the butter to the pan, swirling as it melts. Add the minced garlic and lemon zest. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the lemon juice (and red pepper flakes if using). Tilt the pan and baste the salmon with the bubbling sauce for 1-2 minutes until just cooked through and flaky.
  5. Check for Doneness (30 seconds): Gently twist a fork in the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily and is opaque, it’s done. If still translucent, cook another 30-60 seconds.
  6. Rest and Serve (2 minutes): Remove pan from heat. Transfer salmon to serving plates. Spoon remaining lemon-garlic butter sauce over each fillet. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the salmon very dry for a good sear. Don’t crowd the pan. Add butter after flipping to prevent burning. Garlic cooks quickly—add lemon juice immediately after it becomes fragrant. Use unsalted butter to control salt level. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a low oven or skillet, not the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, lemon garlic butter, easy salmon recipe, quick dinner, weeknight meal, pan-seared salmon, healthy dinner, low-carb, keto-friendly, gluten-free

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/easy-flaky-lemon-garlic-butter-salmon-recipe/