Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple and delicious meal that combines tender, flaky salmon with a bright, zesty sauce. The garlic adds a nice kick, while the lemon and butter make everything taste rich and fresh. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is really easy to make at home.
I love making this salmon when I’m in the mood for something healthy but still full of flavor. The best part is how quickly it comes together—you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes. I usually like to cook the salmon skin-side down first, so it gets crispy, and then pour the garlicky lemon butter sauce right over it. It’s a total crowd-pleaser whenever I serve it.
This dish goes great with steamed veggies or a simple salad on the side, but I also enjoy pairing it with some rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all that buttery sauce. Every time I make it, it reminds me of those relaxed weeknight dinners where good food and good company come together without any fuss. It’s one of my go-to recipes when I want something tasty but not too complicated.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for a tender, flaky texture. If fresh is hard to find, good-quality frozen salmon works well too. For a milder fish, try trout or cod as substitutes.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter gives the sauce its creamy, rich taste, while olive oil helps crisp the salmon. You can swap butter for ghee or a plant-based spread if needed.
Garlic: Thinly sliced garlic releases great flavor gently cooked in butter. If you prefer less intensity, mince the garlic or use garlic powder for a milder touch.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce with acidity. Lemon slices add visual appeal and extra zing. Lime juice can be used as a substitute for a different citrus twist.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances richness. If unavailable, substitute with fresh cilantro, basil, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
How Can You Get Crispy Salmon with a Lush Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce?
Crispy salmon is all about high heat and timing. Here’s what works for me:
- Pat salmon dry before seasoning to get a good sear without steaming.
- Heat the skillet well before adding oil; a smoking hot pan helps crisp the skin or bottom.
- Cook skin-side down first without moving the fillet to build crispiness, about 4-5 minutes.
- Flip gently once to avoid breaking the fish; cook just until opaque and flaky inside.
- For the sauce, melt butter on medium heat and add garlic carefully—not too hot to avoid burning.
- Simmer lemon juice and herbs just briefly to keep the fresh flavors vibrant without overpowering the butter.
With these steps, you’ll enjoy salmon that’s crispy outside but tender inside, perfectly complemented by a buttery garlic lemon sauce that feels fresh and light. It’s a simple technique that makes a big difference!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a non-stick or stainless steel pan for easy turning and even cooking.
- Fish spatula or tongs – helps flip the salmon gently without breaking it.
- Knife and chopping board – for slicing garlic and parsley easily.
- Measuring spoons and citrus juicer – ensures the lemon juice is just right and easy to squeeze.
- Serving plates – for presenting the salmon beautifully and pouring the sauce right at the table.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Instead of parsley, try fresh dill or cilantro for a different herb flavor that pairs well with fish.
- Add a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a richer, tangier taste.
- For a hint of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or paprika on the salmon before cooking.
- Replace lemon slices with orange slices for a sweeter citrus note that complements the butter sauce.
Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Optional: extra parsley for garnish
Time Needed
This dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 12-15 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a wonderful meal ready in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Salmon:
First, sprinkle salt and black pepper on both sides of the salmon fillets. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if your fillets have skin). Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the bottom is nicely golden and crispy.
2. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a warm plate.
3. Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet, letting it melt. Add the sliced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until you can smell the garlic but it’s not browned. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and lemon slices. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors blend well.
4. Combine and Serve:
Put the salmon back into the skillet, spoon the garlic lemon butter sauce over the fillets, and let them warm through for about a minute. Remove from heat, sprinkle with extra parsley if you like, and serve right away. Pour some sauce over the salmon on your plate and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon—just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry well to get a nice sear and avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or lemon juice if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Butter?
Absolutely! You can swap the unsalted butter for ghee, olive oil, or a dairy-free spread if you prefer a dairy-free version; the sauce will still be rich and flavorful.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The buttery lemon sauce works great over grains and veggies to soak up all the delicious flavors.