Baked Lemon Butter Salmon

The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water – that’s my honest first thought whenever I bake lemon butter salmon. It’s one of those weeknight wonders that feels special enough for a weekend dinner party but is truly simple enough to throw together after a long workday. In our home, it’s become a regular rotation dish, much to the delight of everyone around the table, even my picky-eater nephew! The flaky, tender salmon infused with bright lemon and rich butter is simply irresistible. The best part? It’s incredibly healthy and cooks in under 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both impressive and effortless, this Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is your answer. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen too. The ease of preparation combined with the incredible flavour payoff makes it a winner every single time.

Ingredients

This recipe relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients to deliver its vibrant flavour. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Salmon Fillets: (1.5 – 2 lbs, skin on or off) – The star of the show! Choose fresh, wild-caught or sustainably farmed salmon for the best flavour and texture. Fillets should be roughly the same thickness for even cooking.
• Unsalted Butter: (½ cup, 1 stick) – Butter is the foundation of the rich, luscious sauce. Unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Fresh Lemons: (2-3 medium) – We’ll use both the zest and juice for a bright, citrusy flavour that perfectly complements the salmon. Choose lemons that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating they are juicy.
• Fresh Garlic: (3-4 cloves) – Garlic adds a savoury depth and aromatic complexity to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is essential for the best flavour.
• Fresh Parsley: (¼ cup, chopped) – Parsley provides a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of colour. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) is preferred for its bolder flavour.
• Dried Thyme: (1 teaspoon) – Thyme adds a subtle earthy and slightly minty flavour that enhances the lemon and butter. Dried thyme is convenient and works well.
• Salt: (To taste) – Enhances all the flavours and seasons the salmon and sauce. Use sea salt or kosher salt for better flavour.
• Black Pepper: (Freshly ground, to taste) – Adds a touch of spice and depth. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter flavour.
• Optional: White Wine: (¼ cup, dry) – A splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) can add an extra layer of complexity and acidity to the sauce. This is optional but recommended for a more sophisticated flavour.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly baked lemon butter salmon every time:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Parchment paper is preferred as it prevents sticking and is oven-safe. Foil is also acceptable but may slightly affect the bottom texture of the salmon.
2. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step as removing excess moisture helps the salmon to bake rather than steam, resulting in a better texture and allowing for a slight crisp on the edges. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) or directly onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each fillet for even cooking.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. If using a microwave, melt in 30-second intervals, checking in between to prevent splattering. If using a saucepan, melt over low heat. To the melted butter, add the minced garlic, lemon zest (zest of 1-2 lemons), lemon juice (juice of 1-2 lemons), dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If using white wine, add it now as well. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined. The warmth of the melted butter will help to release the flavours of the garlic and lemon zest.
4. Pour Sauce Over Salmon: Evenly pour the lemon butter sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring each fillet is generously coated. If desired, you can gently rub the sauce into the salmon flesh to ensure maximum flavour penetration. If using skin-on salmon, make sure some sauce gets under the skin as well for flavouring.
5. Bake the Salmon: Place the baking sheet with the salmon in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes. Salmon is cooked when it is opaque and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Avoid overbaking, as this will make the salmon dry.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the baked salmon. This adds freshness and a bright green pop of colour. Serve immediately while hot, spooning any remaining lemon butter sauce from the baking sheet over the salmon fillets for extra flavour. Garnish with extra lemon wedges for squeezing over just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

This Baked Lemon Butter Salmon recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings and using 6 oz salmon fillets):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories per serving. Salmon is naturally calorie-dense due to its healthy fats, but this recipe is still a relatively light and healthy meal option compared to many other dinner choices.
• Protein: Around 40-50 grams of protein per serving. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall bodily functions.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High in Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). Salmon is renowned for its rich content of these healthy fats, which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• Vitamin D: A good source of Vitamin D. Salmon is one of the few food sources naturally rich in Vitamin D, which is important for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
• Vitamin B12: Excellent source of Vitamin B12. Salmon is packed with Vitamin B12, essential for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and amounts.*

Preparation Time

This recipe is wonderfully quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes. This includes patting the salmon dry, preparing the lemon butter sauce (mincing garlic, zesting and juicing lemons, measuring spices), and arranging the salmon on the baking sheet.
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes. Baking in a 400°F (200°C) oven takes just a short time, ensuring the salmon remains moist and tender.

Total Time: Approximately 22-25 minutes. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and healthy baked lemon butter salmon dinner on the table in under half an hour!

How to Serve

Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Vegetables:
  • Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper is a classic and healthy accompaniment.
  • Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli florets provide a nutritious and vibrant green side.
  • Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed or roasted green beans with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice complement the salmon beautifully.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts offer a slightly sweet and nutty flavour that balances the richness of the salmon.
  • Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes: Potatoes roasted with lemon, herbs like rosemary and thyme, and olive oil make a hearty and flavourful side.
• Grains & Starches:
  • Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa is a healthy and protein-rich grain that soaks up the lemon butter sauce.
  • Rice Pilaf: A light and flavourful rice pilaf, perhaps with herbs or lemon zest, is a great option.
  • Couscous: Quick-cooking couscous is an easy and versatile side that pairs well with the salmon.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes, especially garlic mashed potatoes, provide a comforting and classic side.
• Salads:
  • Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon.
  • Mediterranean Salad: A vibrant Mediterranean salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese complements the lemon flavours.
  • Caprese Salad: A classic Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a light and flavourful option.
• Bread:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread, like sourdough or baguette, to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
  • Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with the savoury flavours of the salmon.

Serving Suggestion for a Complete Meal: For a balanced and satisfying meal, pair the Baked Lemon Butter Salmon with roasted asparagus and quinoa or lemon herb roasted potatoes and a simple green salad.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Lemon Butter Salmon

Here are some extra tips to ensure your baked lemon butter salmon is absolutely perfect every time:

1. Choose High-Quality Salmon: Opt for fresh, wild-caught or sustainably farmed salmon whenever possible. Look for fillets that are vibrant in colour, firm to the touch, and have a fresh, clean scent. Avoid salmon that looks dull or smells fishy.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give the salmon fillets some space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause them to steam rather than bake, leading to less crispy edges and potentially uneven cooking. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
3. Adjust Baking Time Based on Thickness: Salmon fillets vary in thickness. Thicker fillets will require slightly longer baking times. Use the flaking test and internal temperature (145°F/63°C) to determine doneness rather than solely relying on time.
4. Enhance the Lemon Flavour: For an even more intense lemon flavour, try adding thinly sliced lemon rounds underneath the salmon fillets before baking. This will infuse the salmon from the bottom up as well.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: While parsley and thyme are classic, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, rosemary, or oregano. Add them to the sauce or sprinkle them over the salmon after baking for a burst of fresh flavour.
6. Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a subtle kick. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavour.
7. Marinate for Extra Flavour (Optional): For a deeper flavour infusion, marinate the salmon in the lemon butter sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This step is optional but can enhance the overall taste, especially if using skinless fillets.
8. Broil for a Crispy Top (Optional): For a slightly crispy top, broil the salmon for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Watch it carefully to prevent burning. This is best done with skin-on salmon to achieve crispy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions people have about making baked lemon butter salmon:

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely before baking. The best way to thaw salmon is overnight in the refrigerator. You can also quick-thaw it by placing it in a sealed bag in cold water for about 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 30 minutes. Pat it very dry after thawing to remove excess moisture.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While baked salmon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not bake the salmon ahead of time as it can become dry when reheated. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best quality.

Q3: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
A: Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, which will make the salmon dry. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes and adjust cooking time as needed based on fillet thickness.

Q4: Can I bake salmon with the skin on or off?
A: You can bake salmon with the skin on or off. Skin-on salmon tends to be more forgiving as the skin helps to protect the fillet from drying out during baking and can become crispy and delicious. If using skin-on, place skin-side down on the baking sheet. Skinless salmon will also work well; just be careful not to overbake it.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to bake along with the salmon on the same baking sheet?
A: Yes, you can! Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli florets, bell peppers, or sliced onions can be roasted alongside the salmon. Choose vegetables that have similar cooking times to salmon. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and arrange them around the salmon on the baking sheet. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the vegetables you choose.

Q6: What if I don’t have fresh lemons? Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh lemon juice and zest are highly recommended for the best flavour as they provide a brighter and more aromatic citrus note. However, in a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of bottled lemon juice to substitute for the juice of 1-2 fresh lemons. You will miss out on the flavour from the lemon zest, but the bottled juice will still provide acidity.

Q7: Can I use different herbs in the sauce?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs to customize the flavour profile. Dill, rosemary, oregano, chives, or even a mix of Italian herbs would all work well in this lemon butter sauce. Consider the flavour combinations you enjoy and adjust accordingly.

Q8: How do I store leftover baked salmon?
A: Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F/120°C) or in a microwave until heated through. Be mindful that reheating can sometimes dry out the salmon slightly, so it’s best to consume it fresh if possible. Flaking the leftover salmon and using it in salads, pasta dishes, or fish cakes are also great ways to repurpose it.

Print