30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon: Easy & Delicious

Name: 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: November 22, 2025

by Molly white

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a breeze for busy weeknights.
The combination of lemon and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that brightens any meal.
Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning and perfect for impressing guests.
Versatile enough to pair with salads or grains, this dish fits any occasion seamlessly.

Ingredients for 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan Spiced Salmon recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Salmon Fillets: Choose fresh or thawed fillets with vibrant color and firm texture for the best results.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness while adding richness to the dish.
Fresh Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic cloves for a powerful flavor boost; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives an invigorating zing that complements the salmon perfectly.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; feel free to substitute with dill if desired.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the wonderful flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

How to Make 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray – we don’t want our beautiful salmon sticking around more than it has to.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt about four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned – we want flavor without the bitterness.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste. The aroma will be intoxicating! Feel free to dance around while waiting.

Step 4: Arrange Salmon Fillets

Place your salmon fillets skin-side down in the prepared baking dish. Pour that glorious lemon-garlic butter sauce over each fillet as if you’re giving them a luxurious spa treatment.

Step 5: Bake Until Flaky

Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks absolutely gorgeous.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over the salmon like confetti at a party! Transfer to plates and drizzle any leftover sauce on top for the perfect finishing touch.

Now sit back while your friends or family marvel at your culinary skills! Pair this delightful dish with some steamed veggies or fluffy rice for a complete meal that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to join you at the table. Enjoy every last bite of your amazing creation!

You Must Know

This 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe not only delights the taste buds but also simplifies weeknight dinners.
The zesty flavors and buttery goodness create a dish that’s both fancy and quick, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon skin-side down for a crispy finish, then flip it to cook through while you prepare a lemon garlic butter sauce. Timing is everything; keep an eye on that delicious fish!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the salmon for another fish like trout or tilapia. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra kick. Want some heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, consider using a skillet on low heat with a splash of lemon juice to keep it moist and prevent dryness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always pat your salmon dry before cooking; this helps achieve that coveted crispy skin.
Don’t rush the cooking process; let the salmon rest before serving for better flavor.
Lastly, use fresh lemons for zestier results—your taste buds will thank you!

Sometimes, my friends rave about this dish so much that I wonder if I should charge them for dinner! It’s amazing how something so simple can turn into a star attraction at any gathering.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?

For this delicious 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, you will need fresh salmon fillets, unsalted butter, garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. You can also add herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor. This simple yet flavorful recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be easily customized to your taste.

How do I cook the salmon in 30 minutes?

To prepare the 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon, start by preheating your skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then, add the salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice during cooking to enhance the flavors. The key is to monitor the cooking time closely to achieve perfectly flaky salmon.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon for the 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon recipe. However, ensure that it is fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking and optimal texture. roasted pumpkin chickpea curry Thawing can be done overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water if you’re short on time. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual for delightful results.

What should I serve with lemon garlic butter salmon?

This 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli for a healthy touch. citrus radicchio salad Rice or quinoa also complements the dish well, soaking up any delicious garlic butter sauce. Additionally, a fresh green salad adds a refreshing balance to this savory meal.

Conclusion for 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon :

The 30-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is an easy and quick meal perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients like salmon fillets, garlic, and lemon juice, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. miso glazed Brussels sprouts This recipe not only highlights the natural flavors of the salmon but also provides flexibility in terms of sides and enhancements. easy sheet pan tacos Enjoy this delightful dish that brings together convenience and taste in just half an hour!

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📖 Recipe Card