Simple Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter

Looking for a healthy yet delicious meal that you can prepare in just 20 minutes? This Simple Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter is the perfect dish to try. It requires minimal ingredients and provides an easy-to-make, tasty salmon dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or served with a side salad.

Ingredients required for this recipe include:

• Salmon fillets (4 servings)
• Fresh lemon slices
• Lemon zest (1 tbsp)
• Garlic cloves (2-3, crushed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Butter (3 tbsp)

Method of Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Carefully place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Use the foil for easy cleanup.
3. Top each piece of salmon with lemon slices and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Mix the garlic, lemon zest, butter, olive oil, and another pinch of salt in a small bowl until well combined. Spoon this mixture over the top of your salmon fillets.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is opaque throughout and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
6. Once done, garnish with additional lemon zest on top if desired.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including preparation)

Servings: 4 servings

Tips for Perfect Results:

• For a more intense flavor, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or dill to garnish the dish.
• If you want to add some color and texture, accompany this dish with a side of asparagus roasted in olive oil. The natural juices from the salmon will complement the vegetables nicely!
• To ensure the salmon is cooked through without drying out, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the fish—once it reads 145°F (63°C), the salmon is ready.

Why This Recipe Rocks:

This dish offers a perfect balance between simplicity and complexity. The natural flavors of lemon, garlic, and butter meld beautifully with the delicate taste of fresh salmon. It's an ideal choice for beginners who want to experiment with cooking techniques or those looking for a lighter meal option without compromising on flavor.

The combination of ingredients results in crispy skin and tender, flaky fish inside. The burst of freshness from lemon zest adds a delightful contrast to the richness of buttery sauce. Each bite is packed full of nutrition, providing essential omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health.

Health Benefits:

Salmon is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious! Rich in high-quality protein and healthy fats like Omega-3s, this dish supports brain function, promotes a healthy heart, reduces inflammation, and improves your mood. By incorporating more fish into your diet, you can significantly enhance your overall well-being.

Variations:

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Add a spoonful of pesto sauce for extra flavor and color.
• Mix in some capers or olives to give the dish a Mediterranean twist.
• Pile on some fresh spinach leaves right before serving to add more greens to your meal.

With these simple modifications, you can transform this basic recipe into something that suits all tastes and preferences. Whether you're hosting dinner parties or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Simple Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter offers versatility along with its delightful taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What type of salmon should I use?
   - Fresh wild-caught Alaskan salmon is highly recommended due to its sustainability and superior quality. If fresh isn't available, good-quality frozen will also work well.
2. How do I know if the salmon is done cooking?
   - Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the fish; it should read 145°F (63°C). Additionally, when you gently press on the surface of the salmon with a fork, the flesh will flake apart easily.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead?
   - Yes! Prepare all components except for baking in advance. Assemble and bake right before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

This Simple Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. Its quick preparation, minimal ingredients, and outstanding results make it an excellent addition to anyone’s cooking repertoire. Try it out today and experience the joy of homemade, healthy eating!