Lemon Garlic Salmon Recipe

If you’re looking for an easy yet gourmet dish, this Lemon Garlic Salmon is perfect for you! It’s packed with bold flavors, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a busy home cook, or someone looking to incorporate more omega-3-rich meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Salmon is loaded with protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: A gourmet dish that’s simple to make but impressive enough for guests.
• Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings and add-ons to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor of the salmon:

• Salmon fillets: Use fresh, high-quality fillets, preferably wild-caught.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for a deep, aromatic flavor.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed to balance the richness of the salmon.
• Butter: Adds a creamy, luxurious texture (substitute with olive oil for a lighter version).
• Olive oil: Helps sear the salmon to perfection, creating a crispy crust.
• Honey (optional): Enhances the natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the lemon.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance natural flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a slight heat for those who enjoy spice.
• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle for color and a mild herbaceous touch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet: For searing the salmon.
• Tongs or spatula: To flip the fillets without breaking them.
• Sharp knife: For mincing garlic and chopping parsley.
• Citrus juicer: To extract fresh lemon juice.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate seasoning.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy sear.
• Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
• Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and squeeze fresh lemon juice.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on salmon).
• Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Flip and Add Garlic Butter

• Carefully flip the salmon and reduce the heat to medium.
• Add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
• Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon.
• Spoon the buttery garlic mixture over the fillets.
• If using honey, drizzle a small amount for extra caramelization.

Step 5: Cook Until Flaky

• Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Avoid overcooking, as salmon can dry out quickly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the salmon from heat.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Best Cooking Times for Salmon

• Pan-Seared: 3-4 minutes per side
• Oven-Baked (400°F/200°C): 10-12 minutes
• Air-Fryer (375°F/190°C): 8-10 minutes
• Grilled: 3-4 minutes per side

For the best results, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 125-130°F (52-55°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for well-done.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap salmon tightly in foil and store for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or lemon juice to retain moisture.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Garlic Butter Herb Salmon: Add fresh thyme or rosemary.
• Spicy Lemon Garlic Salmon: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne.
• Dijon Lemon Salmon: Mix Dijon mustard into the garlic butter sauce.
• Honey Lemon Glaze: Increase honey for a sweet, caramelized crust.

What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Salmon

Pair this dish with:

• Side Dishes: Roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh garden salad.
• Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light citrusy cocktail.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes! Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

How do I prevent salmon from sticking to the pan?

Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon and don’t move it while searing.

Can I bake this recipe instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.

What’s the best way to tell if salmon is cooked through?

It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. A meat thermometer should read at least 125°F (52°C).

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Garlic Salmon is a perfect go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, this recipe delivers on both taste and simplicity.

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