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Easy Garlic Butter Salmon with Lemon in 20 Minutes

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This easy garlic butter salmon with lemon comes together in about 15 to 20 minutes with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and even converts salmon skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cooked rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for serving (optional)
  • Steamed green beans, asparagus, or a simple salad for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Take salmon fillets out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using.
  2. Zest the lemon using a microplane (about 1 teaspoon zest). Set aside. Slice the lemon into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
  3. Peel garlic cloves and slice as thinly as possible. Chop parsley and set aside with lemon zest.
  4. Place a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and start to foam. Carefully place salmon fillets in the pan, presentation side down. Cook for 4 minutes without moving. Flip gently and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until salmon flakes easily and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Transfer salmon to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Let it melt, then add sliced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Add lemon slices and cook for another 30 seconds on each side.
  6. Return salmon to the pan, spooning garlic butter and lemon slices over the top. Squeeze juice from remaining lemon half over everything. Sprinkle with lemon zest and fresh parsley. Serve immediately with desired sides.

Notes

Pat salmon dry for best sear. Watch garlic carefully to avoid burning. Let salmon rest at room temperature before cooking for even cooking. Use the flake test or a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter salmon, easy salmon recipe, lemon salmon, quick salmon dinner, weeknight salmon

Find it online: https://lyrafeast.com/easy-garlic-butter-salmon-with-lemon-in-20-minutes/