One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon: How to Cook a Simple Yet Elegant Meal
The One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Fresh salmon fillets are seared to crispy perfection, then finished in the oven with tender roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans. The lemon-garlic butter sauce adds a zesty, rich finish to the salmon, making it a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both light and satisfying.
Cooking salmon in one pan not only makes cleanup easy but also ensures that the vegetables absorb the same delicious flavors. This method allows the salmon to stay crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flaky inside. The lemon adds a bright tanginess, while the garlic provides a fragrant, savory depth, all brought together with the richness of butter.
One-pan meals have gained popularity for their convenience, especially on busy weeknights. They offer a no-fuss solution without sacrificing taste or presentation, making this dish perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quick dinner for the family or an elegant meal for guests. The combination of fresh salmon, vegetables, and a luscious butter sauce guarantees a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes.
Fun fact: Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, making this dish as nutritious as it is flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or an impressive dish to serve, this one-pan recipe delivers on all fronts.
This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together fresh salmon fillets, roasted vegetables, and a zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce. The salmon is seared to crispy perfection, then finished in the oven with tender roasted asparagus or green beans. The tangy lemon and fragrant garlic create a vibrant flavor, while the butter adds richness. This one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes!
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, your choice)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (sliced and zested)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Fresh vegetables (asparagus or green beans)
Prepare the salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Sauté garlic: In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sear the salmon: Add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin side down if applicable.
Sear for about 2-3 minutes until the salmon is golden and crispy on one side.
- Add lemon and veggies: Place the lemon slices around the salmon and scatter your chosen vegetables (asparagus or green beans) around the skillet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the veggies with salt and pepper.
- Bake the salmon: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley and a bit of lemon zest, and serve the salmon with the roasted veggies.
- Fish swap: You can easily swap the salmon for other types of fish like cod or trout. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Extra veggies: Add cherry tomatoes or baby potatoes to the roasting vegetables for additional flavor and color.
- Low-carb option: Serve the salmon and veggies as-is for a low-carb meal, or pair it with a side salad for a light dinner.
With a foundation in French culinary tradition and a flair for fusion cuisine, Chef Isabelle Laurent brings gourmet techniques to everyday meals. Trained in a virtual culinary institute, Isabelle specializes in elevating simple recipes with refined methods, blending classic French techniques with global flavors. Her approachable style and expert guidance make even the most sophisticated dishes accessible to home cooks of all levels. Known for her creativity, Isabelle believes in transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals, from classic fried chicken to indulgent espresso cheesecake.
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