If you’re looking for quick recipes that don’t compromise on flavor, this Minute Garlic Butter Salmon is your answer. In just 15 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home, with a rich garlic butter sauce that perfectly complements tender, flaky salmon. Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or even meal prep, this recipe proves that healthy, delicious dinners don’t need to take hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this Minute Garlic Butter Salmon:
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4 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
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Juice of half a lemon
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Lemon wedges, for garnish
Optional side ingredients for a complete meal:
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Steamed vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or green beans)
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Cooked rice or quinoa
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Mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Large skillet or non-stick frying pan
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Tongs or spatula
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Knife and cutting board
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Measuring spoons
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Plate for resting salmon
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Lemon juicer (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Minute Garlic Butter Salmon:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Drying the fish ensures a crispier exterior when seared.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on). Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
Step 3: Flip and Add Garlic Butter
Carefully flip the salmon using tongs or a spatula. Reduce the heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Spoon the melted garlic butter over the salmon as it cooks for another 2-3 minutes, until the salmon reaches your desired doneness.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon and Herbs
Remove the pan from heat. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and sprinkle with chopped parsley. The lemon brightens the dish and the parsley adds a fresh touch.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the salmon with your choice of sides. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the pan over the fish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Perfect Minute Garlic Butter Salmon
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Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly, so watch the fillets carefully. The ideal internal temperature is 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare.
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Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor. Avoid pre-minced jars if possible.
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Quick Side Pairings: Pair with quick recipes like microwaved vegetables, instant rice, or a simple salad for a complete 20-minute meal.
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Crispy Skin: If your fillets have skin, make sure it’s dry and cook skin-side down first for a crisp texture.
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Meal Prep Friendly: Cook extra fillets and refrigerate or freeze for 2-3 days. Reheat gently to preserve flavor.
Variations to Elevate This Quick Recipe
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Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
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Honey Garlic Butter Salmon: Mix 1 tablespoon of honey into the garlic butter for a sweet-savory flavor.
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Herb-Infused: Add thyme or rosemary to the butter while cooking.
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Asian-Inspired: Swap butter for sesame oil and drizzle with soy sauce and green onions before serving.
Nutritional Value (Approximate, per serving)
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Calories: 350
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Protein: 34 g
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Fat: 22 g
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Carbohydrates: 1 g
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Fiber: 0 g
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Sugar: 0 g
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Vitamin D: 60% DV
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: High
Note: Nutritional content varies depending on salmon size and butter quantity.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try Quick Recipe
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Fast & Easy: From prep to plate in under 20 minutes.
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Healthy: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins.
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Delicious: Garlic butter creates a flavor-packed, restaurant-quality finish.
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Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
This recipe demonstrates that you don’t need complicated steps or long cooking times to enjoy a gourmet meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes, just thaw completely before cooking and pat dry for best results.
Q: Can this recipe be made in the oven?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, then add garlic butter before serving.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for quick recipes that are both flavorful and nutritious, this Minute Garlic Butter Salmon is a winner. With minimal ingredients, a short cook time, and maximum taste, it proves that gourmet meals can be fast and simple. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a dinner that’s perfect for busy nights or last-minute entertaining.
