Baked Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Servings: 4

⏲️ Prep Time: 5 minutes

⏲️ Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Category: Dinner | Method: Baking | Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-inspired
Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Keto-friendly

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Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each), skin-on or skinless

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

• Lemon slices, for garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

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‍ Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

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Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels.

• Place them skin-side down in the prepared baking dish.

• Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or melted butter.

• Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.

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Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

• In a small saucepan or skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter.

• Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.

• Stir in lemon juice, zest, parsley, and optional red pepper flakes.

• Let it simmer gently for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.

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Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Salmon

• Spoon or brush the warm lemon garlic butter sauce evenly over the salmon fillets.

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Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.

  Tip: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temp of 135–140°F (57–60°C).

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Step 6: Broil (Optional)

• For a golden finish, broil on high for 1–2 minutes at the end.

• Watch carefully to avoid burning the garlic.

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Step 7: Garnish & Serve

• Remove from oven and let rest 2–3 minutes.

• Garnish with fresh lemon slices and parsley.

• Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked salmon with:

• Garlic roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, or asparagus)

• Mashed or roasted potatoes

• Steamed rice or quinoa

• Cauliflower mash (for low-carb option)

• A side of mixed greens or cucumber-tomato salad

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Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently in a microwave or oven at low heat to retain moisture.

• Use leftovers in salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

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Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

• Don’t overcook: Check doneness early to keep it moist and flaky.

• Use fresh lemon juice for bright flavor.

• Try other herbs: Dill, thyme, or chives work beautifully too.

• Foil packets: You can wrap each fillet in foil with sauce to lock in moisture—perfect for grilling or mess-free baking.