Description
This Garlic Butter Salmon recipe features perfectly seared salmon fillets cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce infused with fresh lemon juice and thyme. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a flavorful and elegant dish ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and help achieve a crisp skin.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until it begins to bubble, preparing the pan for searing.
- Sear the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, allowing the skin to become crispy and the salmon to cook halfway through.
- Flip the Salmon: Carefully turn the fillets over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Add Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium. Push the salmon to one side of the skillet and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic.
- Sauté Garlic: Cook the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to let it burn which could impart bitterness.
- Add Lemon Juice and Thyme: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and thyme, then spoon the garlic butter mixture over each salmon fillet to coat and enhance flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the salmon. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- Make sure the salmon fillets are dry before seasoning to get a better sear.
- If you prefer, use fresh thyme in place of dried for a more vibrant herb flavor.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness of salmon fillets.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking during searing.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley adds color and freshness but is optional.
