The Sizzle That Started It All
The smell of garlic butter hits me first. It reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen. She always cooked simple food with big flavor. Ever wondered how to make a simple salmon dish unforgettable? This recipe does just that. It turns basic ingredients into something magical. The lemon and garlic mix fills your home with warmth. It promises a good meal without much work. I fell in love with that promise.
My First Kitchen Surprise
My first time making this, I was nervous. I forgot to soften the butter first. So my garlic butter was a bit chunky. I slathered it on anyway. It all melted together perfectly in the oven. The salmon came out flaky and full of flavor. This taught me that cooking does not need to be perfect. It just needs to be done with heart. That is why home cooking matters so much.
Why This Dish Tastes So Good
Two things make this salmon special. First, the dijon mustard adds a sharp, deep flavor. It cuts through the rich butter. Second, baking it in foil keeps the fish incredibly moist. The steam cooks the salmon gently. Which flavor combo surprises you the most? Is it the lemon with garlic? Tell me in the comments! I love hearing what you think.
A Quick Trip to Its Origins
Butter-baked fish is a classic method. It is popular in many coastal areas. This version uses easy-to-find ingredients for busy cooks. It fits modern life but feels timeless. *Did you know salmon is packed with good-for-you omega-3 fats?* So this tasty meal is also great for your health. What is your favorite quick dinner to make? Share your own recipes below! I am always looking for new ideas.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Flat parsley | 1 teaspoon | Minced |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | |
| Coarse Kosher salt | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Lemon juice | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Lemon zest | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Salmon fillet | 1 pound |
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Step 1 First, get your oven heating to 375°F. Tear off a big piece of foil for a baking sheet. This makes cleanup a total breeze later. Now, let’s make that amazing garlic butter. Step 2 Mash the soft butter with minced garlic and parsley. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Squeeze in that fresh lemon juice and zest. Mix it all into a flavorful paste. Step 3 Slather that butter all over your salmon fillet. Don’t worry about making it look perfect. (A hard-learned tip: use room temperature butter for easy spreading). It will melt and cover everything nicely. Step 4 Wrap the salmon up tightly in the foil. Bake it for about 15 to 20 minutes. The time depends on how thick your fish is. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. What is the key to a flavorful, moist salmon? Share below! Cook Time: 20 mins Total Time: 25 mins Yield: 4 servings Category: Dinner, SeafoodThree Tasty Twists on This Dish
Spicy Cajun Swap the parsley for a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. It adds a wonderful kick of heat. Perfect for those who love a little spice. Herb Garden Use a full tablespoon of fresh dill or chives. The fresh herbs make it taste so bright. It’s a real garden treat. Maple Glaze Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the butter. It gives a sweet and savory flavor. My family asks for this weekly. Which of these spins would you try first? Let me know in the comments!My Favorite Ways to Serve It
This salmon is a fantastic main dish. I love it with simple buttered rice. Or try it with roasted asparagus or green beans. A simple side salad works great too. For drinks, a crisp white wine is lovely. A non-alcoholic lemon sparkling water is also perfect. It cuts through the rich butter sauce beautifully. Which would you choose tonight, the wine or the sparkler?
Storing Your Leftover Salmon
Let the salmon cool completely first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for two months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven to keep it moist.
This recipe is easy to double for a crowd. Just use a bigger baking sheet. My grandkids love when I make extra. It means quick lunches all week long. What is your favorite quick leftover meal?
Simple Fixes for Common Hiccups
Is your salmon coming out dry? You probably cooked it too long. Check it a few minutes early next time. The foil packet is key for trapping steam.
If the butter sauce is too thin, just broil it. Open the foil and broil for one minute. This makes the top beautifully golden. No one will know you had a small issue!
Your Salmon Questions Answered
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check your mustard label to be safe.
Q: Can I make the butter ahead?
A: Absolutely! Mix the butter a day in advance. Keep it covered in your fridge.
Q: What can I use instead of dill?
A: Fresh parsley or chives work great. Use what you have in your garden.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, but thaw it completely first. Pat it very dry with a paper towel.
Q: How do I serve four people?
A: Simply double all the ingredients. Use two foil packets on your baking sheet.
Share Your Kitchen Success
I hope this recipe becomes a weeknight favorite for you. It is a true lifesaver on busy days. Did your family enjoy it? I would love to hear your stories.
Show me your beautiful creations! Tag @SavoryDiscovery on Pinterest. Happy cooking! —Elowen Thorn.
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Fillet
Description
With simple ingredients like lemon, garlic and dijon mustard, this EASY Garlic Butter Salmon can be on the table in less than 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare a large piece of aluminum foil on a rimmed baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Slather, best you can, all over the salmon fillet (cut into pieces or whole). Don’t worry about it being even, after it melts it will evenly distribute.
- Wrap salmon tightly and bake for 15-20 minutes. This depends greatly on the thickness of your salmon.
- Remove salmon and pull back aluminum foil. Allow to rest for 3-4 minutes before serving.
Notes
- If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or ratings!