Flaky, succulent salmon infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and rich, buttery goodness – this recipe is a culinary masterpiece that's surprisingly simple to achieve. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Lemon Butter Salmon dish is guaranteed to impress. The delicate balance of flavors allows the salmon's natural taste to shine while the lemon adds a vibrant burst of freshness, and the butter creates a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to every bite. It's a healthy and satisfying meal that’s both elegant and effortlessly delicious, ideal for those seeking a sophisticated yet uncomplicated recipe.
This recipe is quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, consider serving this Lemon Butter Salmon with a side of roasted asparagus or a simple green salad. Ready to create this culinary delight? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Spatula
- Absorbent paper towels
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Lemon juice: equal parts with water
- Water: equal parts with lemon juice
- Garlic cloves: 2
- Salt
- Pepper
- Butter: 3 tablespoons (very cold)
- Parsley (or cilantro)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Cook the Salmon
- Dry the salmon fillets on all sides with absorbent paper towels.
- Season the salmon generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a pan with very hot oil. Place the salmon skin-side down, immediately lower the heat to medium-low.
- Gently press the fish with a spatula for a few seconds to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook for approximately 7 minutes, skin-side down, until about three-quarters cooked. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes (or longer for well-done).
- Remove the salmon from the pan.
Step 2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same pan, add the chopped garlic and cook for 30 seconds over medium heat.
- Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat, add very cold butter, and stir constantly until melted, adding butter piece by piece to prevent curdling.
- Stir in chopped parsley (or cilantro).
Step 3. Serve the Dish
- Serve the salmon with the butter sauce, accompanied by steamed asparagus and carrots (optional).
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Tips
- Cook the salmon with the skin on to prevent overcooking and drying out. The skin will become crispy.
- It's important to completely dry the salmon before cooking to ensure a good sear.
- Use very hot oil initially to prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan.
- Use cold butter for the sauce to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth consistency.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
2. What can I serve with this Lemon Butter Salmon?
Roasted asparagus, a simple green salad, or even some crusty bread are all excellent choices to soak up the delicious sauce.
This simple yet elegant Lemon Butter Salmon recipe is the perfect addition to your Lent menu, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to richer dishes. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and the satisfyingly flaky texture of perfectly cooked salmon. We hope you savor every bite!