Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter – Easy Recipe

Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly baked salmon served with garlic butter, lemon, and herbs.

Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter—Easy Recipe, an elegant and incredibly delicious dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even a special occasion. Juicy salmon fillets, paired with a rich garlic butter sauce and fresh herbs, create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both healthy and indulgent. Ready in just 25–30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want restaurant-quality results at home.

Why Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter is a Favourite

Salmon is a versatile fish that works well with various cooking methods, but baking it with garlic butter is a game-changer. Here’s why this dish is loved by everyone:

1. Quick and Easy

Baked salmon requires minimal prep and cooks quickly in the oven. Perfect for:

• Busy professionals needing a fast yet nutritious dinner
• Students craving a hearty meal with minimal effort
• Families wanting a dish that pleases both children and adults

2. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

You don’t need a long shopping list. The main ingredients are:

• Fresh salmon fillets
• Garlic and butter
• Lemon juice
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or dill)

3. Healthy and Nutritious

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. Combined with garlic and olive oil or butter, this meal supports heart health and immunity.

Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter

Main Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (approx. 150–200g each)
• Unsalted butter – 4 tbsp, melted
• Garlic – 3–4 cloves, minced
• Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
• Salt – to taste
• Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
• Fresh parsley or dill – 2 tbsp, chopped

Optional Ingredients

• Lemon slices – for garnish
• Red chili flakes – for a spicy twist
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp, for extra richness

Pro Tip: Using fresh herbs and freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the dish’s flavor significantly compared to dried herbs or bottled lemon juice.

Step-by-Step Recipe: Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter

Follow these steps for perfect, flaky salmon with garlic butter every time.

Step 1: Preheat the oven.

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) for fan ovens or 220°C (430°F) for conventional ovens. This ensures even baking and a slightly crispy top.

Chef Tip: Line your baking tray with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleaning.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and chopped herbs.
2. Mix well to form a smooth, aromatic garlic butter sauce.

Pro Tip: Let the garlic sit in the melted butter for a few minutes before baking. This helps infuse the butter with intense flavour without burning the garlic.

Step 3: Season the Salmon

1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Brush or drizzle the garlic butter generously over each fillet.
3. Optional: Add a few lemon slices on top for extra aroma and tang.

Chef Tip: Make small slits in the salmon fillet to let the garlic butter penetrate deeper for a richer flavor.

Step 4: Bake the salmon.

1. Place the salmon fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment or foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
3. Check for doneness: The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking—salmon continues to cook slightly even after removing from the oven.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the salmon.
2. Sprinkle extra chopped herbs on top.
3. Serve with lemon wedges and a side of your choice, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Presentation Tip: For Instagram-worthy plating, twist the salmon slightly, add lemon slices, and drizzle a little olive oil for a glossy finish.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

Golden Garlic Flavour

Ensure garlic is finely minced and combined with melted butter to release its aroma without burning. Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin the dish.

Even Cooking

Choose salmon fillets of similar thickness for uniform baking. For thicker pieces, cover loosely with foil for the first 8 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Fresh Herbs

Parsley, dill, and thyme pair beautifully with salmon. Add half during cooking and half after baking for maximum freshness.

Lemon Zest

Grate a little lemon zest on top just before serving for an extra citrusy zing.

Optional Variations

1. Creamy Garlic Butter Salmon

Add 2–3 tbsp of cream or Greek yogurt to the garlic butter for a richer, creamier sauce.

2. Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon

Add 1/2 tsp red chili flakes or paprika for a mild heat that complements the garlic butter.

3. Vegetable-Loaded Salmon Tray Bake

Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus to the baking tray. Roast them together for a complete one-pan meal.

4. Lemon Herb Twist

Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley with lemon zest in the garlic butter for a Mediterranean flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pairings

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up the garlic butter sauce perfectly.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans add color and nutrients.
• Fresh Green Salad: Lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes balance the richness of the salmon.

Creative Combos

• Salmon with Garlic Butter Pasta: Turn this dish into a seafood pasta for a fancy dinner.
• Baked Salmon Tacos: Flake the baked salmon and serve with tortillas, avocado, and fresh salsa.
• Lemon Garlic Salmon Bowls: Combine baked salmon, quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and drizzle with extra garlic butter.

Health Benefits of Baked Salmon with Garlic Butter

Baked salmon with garlic butter isn’t just tasty—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Salmon is naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation. Protein content in salmon aids in muscle repair and growth, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Garlic adds an immune-boosting effect and supports cardiovascular wellness. Using fresh herbs like parsley or dill brings in antioxidants and vitamins, while optional vegetables on the side increase fiber and minerals. Even with butter, this dish provides healthy fats, and by pairing it with a salad or whole grains, it becomes a complete, wholesome meal suitable for any weeknight or special occasion.

How to Make It Extra Flavourful

To take your baked salmon to the next level, focus on flavor layering. Start by using freshly minced garlic in melted butter, letting it infuse the fat without burning. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets before baking for a bright, zesty note. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and cracked black pepper, as this enhances natural fish flavors. Herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme can be added both before and after baking for maximum aroma. For a gourmet twist, drizzle a little extra garlic butter after baking and sprinkle lemon zest on top. Optional spices like smoked paprika or red chili flakes can give subtle heat or smokiness, making every bite rich and memorable.

Plating and Presentation Tips

Presentation makes a huge difference, especially if you want restaurant-style appeal at home. Place the salmon fillet slightly angled on a white plate to make the colors pop. Use lemon slices or wedges on the side, and sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for a vibrant green contrast. Drizzle any leftover garlic butter from the tray over the salmon to give a glossy, appetizing finish. Besides, arrange roasted vegetables or a small salad neatly around the fillet. Twisting vegetables or rice into small nests adds a professional touch. Small details like cracked black pepper or a light olive oil drizzle can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it Instagram-worthy and inviting.

FAQ: Common Questions About Baked Salmon

Q1: Can I bake frozen salmon?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Frozen salmon may release extra water, which can dilute the garlic butter sauce.

Q2: How do I know when salmon is perfectly cooked?
The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the middle. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.

Q3: Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Absolutely! Make the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Brush it on fresh salmon right before baking.

Q4: Can I add vegetables or protein on the side?
Yes! Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad pair perfectly. You can also serve baked salmon alongside shrimp or tofu for a protein-rich combo.

Q5: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely reduce chili flakes or omit spices for children, and pair it with mild sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies.

Final Thoughts / Conclusion

Baked salmon with garlic butter is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and nutrition. It’s quick, versatile, and loved by everyone—from busy weeknight cooks to food enthusiasts looking for a healthy yet indulgent meal. The garlic butter elevates the natural richness of salmon, while herbs, lemon, and optional spices add layers of freshness and aroma. With minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. By following the tips for flavor, presentation, and proper baking, every fillet comes out juicy, tender, and irresistible. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a balanced, wholesome, and Instagram-worthy meal that satisfies both taste and health goals.

Easy Chicken Ramen Recipe at Home (Healthy & Flavorful) https://foodbiterecipes.com/chicken-ramen-recipe/

For perfectly baked salmon every time, try this non-stick roasting tray.”