Description
This baked salmon recipe features tender, flaky salmon fillets cooked to perfection with a luscious lemon butter sauce. The dish combines the rich flavors of butter, fresh garlic, and dill with the brightness of lemon juice, creating a delightful and elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy heart-healthy fish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 4 pieces fresh salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
Lemon Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices
- Extra fresh dill
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Make the lemon butter sauce: In a small saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring well. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chopped fresh dill, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the salmon: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In an oven-safe skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin is on) in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes until the edges begin to look opaque and the salmon is lightly browned.
- Bake the salmon: Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven. Bake the salmon for 10-12 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven. Plate each salmon fillet and generously drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh dill and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh salmon fillets with skin on; the skin helps keep the fish moist during cooking.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.
- Make sure to pat the salmon dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear in the skillet.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear the salmon in a regular pan and then transfer the fillets to a baking dish for oven cooking.
- Fresh dill complements the lemon flavor well, but you can substitute with fresh parsley or tarragon if preferred.
