Enjoy the flaky, fork-tender goodness of Garlic Butter Baked Salmon, an Italian favorite. Prepared with fresh salmon fillets and a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is a seafood lover's dream. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it's ready in under 30 minutes and can be conveniently baked with vegetables for a complete, savory meal.
Discover the recipe for Garlic Butter Sauce in one of my earlier posts. Ideal for seafood, pasta, chicken, and steak, this sauce adds a rich flavor to any dish. Find the full recipe of Garlic Butter Sauce to elevate your salmon experience.
To Make Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Start by washing and trimming the asparagus. In a bowl, generously coat the asparagus spears with the delectable garlic butter sauce. Ensure an even distribution, allowing each spear to soak up the flavors. Set the coated asparagus aside on a plate.
Place the salmon fillets on a foil-lined baking sheet that has been lightly greased with oil. Generously spread the garlic butter sauce over each fillet. Elevate the flavor profile by placing fresh lemon slices on top of the salmon fillets. This step promises a burst of citrusy brightness to complement the rich, buttery taste.
Place the seasoned asparagus alongside the salmon fillets on the baking sheet for a balanced cooking process, creating a flavorful medley in one convenient space.
Preheat your oven to 350°F for great cooking. Place the baking sheet inside the oven and bake the salmon and asparagus for about 10 to 12 minutes. This makes the salmon perfectly cooked, flaky, and filled with the tasty garlic butter goodness. The asparagus stays nice and crunchy.
When the timer beeps, carefully remove the baking sheet. Check that the salmon is flaky, and the asparagus is a vibrant green. Now, they're all set to be enjoyed and savored.
To Serve
Enjoy this Garlic Butter Baked Salmon as a standalone delight, or accompany it with your favorite sides for a fulfilling meal. For more pairing ideas, see the serving suggestions section.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Baked Salmon:
Ingredients Quality and Preparation:
Freshness is Key: Start with fresh salmon fillets for the best taste and texture. Check for vibrant color and a mild, oceanic smell to ensure the salmon is at its peak freshness.
Garlic Butter Sauce: This is the star ingredient, vital for enhancing the salmon's flavor. I recommend using it generously. For an added twist, consider incorporating white wine into the sauce for a unique taste.
Marinating Time: Allow the salmon to marinate in the garlic butter sauce for at least 15-30 minutes before baking. This gives the fish ample time to absorb the flavors, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Baking Basics:
Baking Temperature: Salmon cooks swiftly, typically in 10 to 12 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F. If you're short on time, increase the oven temperature to 400°F, and it should be ready in about 8 to 10 minutes.
Using Foil: Lining the baking sheet with foil is a small step that makes a big difference in cleanup. It catches drips and keeps your pan clean, making your post-meal routine much easier.
Checking Doneness: To ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked, use a fork to gently flake the fish at its thickest part. It should easily separate into large, moist flakes. Avoid overcooking to maintain the salmon's tenderness.
Safety Tip: Ensure your salmon reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) recommended by the FDA for optimal doneness. Using a food thermometer guarantees both delicious flavor and food safety.
Customization:
Vegetables: Including your favorite veggies transforms this into a complete, one-pan meal. While I've chosen asparagus, feel free to substitute it with broccoli, potatoes, or other similar vegetables for variety.
Stovetop Method: For those who prefer stovetop cooking, you can pan-fry the salmon fillets. Cook them for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a pale pink color.