Description
A quick and easy 15-minute weeknight dinner featuring salmon fillets baked with a rich garlic butter sauce, lemon zest, and herbs. This recipe is healthy, minimal cleanup, and perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6oz / 170g each)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (kosher preferred)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium lemon (zest and juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
- Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure proper baking texture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl. Do not let it brown.
- Remove butter from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in minced garlic, lemon zest, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes.
- Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the garlic butter mixture over the top of each fillet, spreading evenly to coat.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness.
- Remove from oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top if desired and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Serve immediately.
Notes
Pat the salmon dry before seasoning to prevent steaming. Do not overcook, as salmon continues to cook slightly after removal from the oven. For thick fillets (over 1 inch), add 2-3 minutes to cook time. To keep cleanup easy, line the pan with parchment or foil.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 34
Keywords: baked salmon, garlic butter salmon, quick dinner, weeknight meals, healthy seafood, keto friendly, gluten free, easy recipes