Lemon Butter Salmon
Description
This lemon butter salmon is tender, flaky, and packed with rich buttery flavor balanced by fresh lemon. It’s a quick, restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or special meals.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 2–3 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
1. Season Salmon
- Pat salmon dry
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika
2. Sear Salmon
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat
- Place salmon skin-side down
- Cook for 4–5 minutes until crispy
- Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes
- Remove and set aside
3. Make Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same pan, add butter
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds
- Pour in lemon juice
- Stir and let it slightly thicken
4. Combine
- Return salmon to pan
- Spoon sauce over the top
- Cook 1–2 minutes to coat
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle parsley
- Add lemon slices
- Serve immediately
Servings
- Serves 2–3 people
Nutritional Info (per serving approx)
- Calories: ~350–450
- Protein: ~25–30g
- Fat: ~25–30g (healthy fats)
- Carbs: ~2–4g
Tips
- Don’t overcook salmon—it should be flaky and moist
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor 🍋
- Let salmon rest 2–3 minutes before serving
- Add capers for extra Mediterranean flavor
Benefits
✔ Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids
✔ High-quality protein
✔ Supports heart & brain health
✔ Quick and nutritious meal
Q&A
Q: Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Yes—bake at 200°C / 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes—just thaw completely before cooking.
Q: How do I know it’s done?
It flakes easily with a fork.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—replace butter with olive oil.