Lemon Garlic Salmon

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When I need a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner, this 15-minute Lemon Garlic Salmon is my go-to recipe. It’s packed with bright citrus flavor, rich buttery goodness, and a hint of garlic that perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon. Whether you’re making a weeknight meal or a last-minute dinner for guests, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Salmon

This recipe is all about simplicity and bold flavors. The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and butter creates a rich yet refreshing taste that enhances the natural flavor of the salmon. Plus, it’s easy to make in just 15 minutes!

• Fast & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor – The garlic butter sauce and fresh lemon make this dish taste like something you’d get at a high-end restaurant.
• Versatile – Pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

This Lemon Garlic Salmon will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it the perfect addition to your dinner rotation.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Salmon

To make this flavorful and healthy dish, you’ll need just a few fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in enhancing the taste and texture of the salmon.

• Salmon fillets – Use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless). Wild-caught salmon offers the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the salmon with a rich, aromatic depth.
• Lemon juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the salmon.
• Butter – Melted butter adds a creamy, luxurious texture to the sauce. You can also use olive oil for a lighter option.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the salmon to perfection, creating a crispy, golden crust.
• Honey (optional) – A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the salmon and balances the acidity of the lemon.
• Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning the salmon and bringing out its natural flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a slight kick of heat for those who love a bit of spice.
• Fresh parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a mild herbaceous flavor.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Salmon

This quick and easy method ensures your salmon is perfectly cooked with a golden, flavorful crust and a tender, flaky interior.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a crispy sear when cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and squeeze fresh lemon juice.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on salmon). Let them sear undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Flip and Add Garlic Butter

Carefully flip the salmon fillets and reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and spoon the buttery garlic mixture over the fillets. If using honey, drizzle a small amount over each fillet to enhance the caramelization.

Step 5: Cook Until Flaky

Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook, as salmon can dry out quickly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the salmon from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

This Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and just 15 minutes of cooking time, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to!

How Long to Cook Salmon

Cooking salmon correctly is key to achieving the perfect texture—flaky on the inside with a slight crisp on the outside. Here’s a general guide for cooking times based on the method and thickness of your fillets:

• Pan-Seared (Medium-High Heat) – 3-4 minutes per side
• Oven-Baked (400°F/200°C) – 10-12 minutes
• Air-Fryer (375°F/190°C) – 8-10 minutes
• Grilled (Medium Heat) – 3-4 minutes per side

For best results, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 125-130°F (52-55°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for well-done. Always let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to lock in moisture.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover salmon, don’t let it go to waste! Here’s how to store and reheat it while keeping the flavors intact.

• Refrigerator – Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat Salmon

• Oven – Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Stovetop – Warm on low heat in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil for a few minutes.
• Microwave – Use short 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking.

Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Salmon

To get the most flavor and perfect texture, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh, high-quality salmon – Wild-caught salmon has a richer flavor compared to farm-raised.
• Pat salmon dry before cooking – This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
• Don’t overcook – Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a thermometer to avoid dry salmon.
• Balance the flavors – Adjust the lemon and honey ratio to suit your taste preference.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding capers, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of parmesan for a twist.

With these simple tips, your Lemon Garlic Salmon will always turn out juicy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious!

Print