Baked Lemon Butter Salmon

Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is one of those timeless recipes that effortlessly brings together elegance, flavor, and simplicity. With flaky, tender salmon baked to perfection in a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing a healthy family dinner, hosting guests, or simply craving a nourishing and comforting meal, this salmon never disappoints.

Its citrusy brightness and velvety richness pair beautifully with vegetables, grains, or salads, making it a versatile and dependable go-to entrée. The aroma alone—garlic sizzling in butter, lemon releasing its subtle oils, and salmon gently roasting—feels like a warm invitation to the dinner table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that gourmet doesn't have to be complicated. With minimal prep work and ingredients you often already have in the kitchen, it delivers an unforgettable flavor experience.

The combination of lemon and butter is both refreshing and indulgent, and the salmon stays incredibly moist thanks to the foil-wrapped steaming effect.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Healthy yet indulgent – Salmon is rich in Omega-3s and protein, while the lemon-butter sauce adds luxurious flavor without making the dish heavy.
• Beginner-friendly – Perfect for new cooks since it’s nearly impossible to overcook when baked in foil.
• Versatile – Pair it with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, quinoa, salad, or crusty bread.
• Crowd-pleasing – A universal favorite across ages and cuisines.
• Quick cooking time – Dinner can be ready in under 30 minutes.

Basic Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: 25–28 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 360–400 calories per serving (depending on portion size and butter amount)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Mediterranean Fusion

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 170 g each), skin on or off
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Lemon Butter Sauce

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Prepare a foil-lined baking sheet and place salmon fillets on it.
2. Season the salmon and pour the lemon-garlic butter sauce over it.
3. Top with lemon slices and seal the foil packet.
4. Bake until flaky and tender.
5. Garnish and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.
3. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels.
4. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
5. Place the fillets skin-side down on the foil.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Melted butter
   • Minced garlic
   • Lemon juice
   • Honey (optional)
   • Paprika
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the salmon.

Step 3: Add Lemon Slices & Seal

1. Place thin lemon slices on top of each fillet.
2. Fold the foil into a sealed packet, ensuring no steam escapes.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

1. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness.
2. Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Carefully open the foil.
2. Spoon the pan juices over the fillets.
3. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

How to Serve

Serve hot alongside:

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Garlic butter pasta
• Roasted or steamed vegetables
• Mashed potatoes
• Quinoa salad
• Fresh garden salad

For a restaurant-style plate, drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over everything.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the salmon—thicker fillets may need a minute or two extra.
• Use high-quality salmon: Fresh salmon will have the best texture and flavor.
• Add chili flakes if you want a spicy kick.
• Use foil or parchment to lock in moisture.
• Broil for 2 minutes at the end if you want slightly crisp edges.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Lemon Salmon

Add 2 tbsp heavy cream to the butter sauce for a richer flavor.

2. Herb-Crusted Salmon

Top the fillets with a mixture of parsley, thyme, basil, and breadcrumbs.

3. Honey Garlic Salmon

Increase honey to 1.5 tbsp and reduce lemon slightly for a sweeter glaze.

4. Spicy Cajun Salmon

Sprinkle Cajun seasoning on the salmon before baking.

5. Mediterranean Style

Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the baking sheet.

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Warm gently in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for 10 minutes to keep it moist.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Oven

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Butter Salmon is one of the most rewarding recipes you can make at home—flavorful, elegant, nourishing, and incredibly simple. It’s the perfect blend of fresh citrus brightness and rich buttery comfort, all wrapped around tender, perfectly cooked salmon. Whether for weeknights or special dinners, this recipe is always a hit and guarantees a delightful eating experience every single time.