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Lemon Garlic Salmon

Lemon Garlic Salmon

Linda M. Harris
Lemon Garlic Salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the rich, buttery texture of fresh salmon with a zesty lemon-garlic sauce.
It’s a healthy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special gathering.
With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious dish on the table in no time!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet (for pan-searing)
  • 1 baking sheet (for baking option)
  • 1 grill (for grilling option)
  • 1 small bowl (for mixing sauce)
  • 1 zester or grater (for lemon zest)
  • 1 garlic press or knife (for mincing garlic)
  • 1 measuring spoon (for lemon juice and other ingredients)
  • 1 tongs or spatula (for flipping salmon)
  • 1 sharp knife (for prepping salmon and garnishing)

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon juiced and zested
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper or to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes optional, for heat (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Salmon:

  • Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of each fillet with salt and pepper.

Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and olive oil (or melted butter).
    Stir well and set aside.

Cook the Salmon:

  • Pan-Seared:
  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if applicable).
    Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the salmon is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Baked:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Grilled:
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
    Brush the salmon with olive oil and place the fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side.

Add the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

  • Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the lemon garlic sauce over the fillets.
    Optional: Baste the salmon with the sauce while cooking for an extra burst of flavor.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salmon fillets for a pop of color and flavor.
    Serve with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a green salad.

Notes

  • Choosing Salmon: You can use either wild-caught or farm-raised salmon for this recipe. Wild-caught salmon tends to have a richer flavor, while farm-raised salmon is often more affordable.
  • Cooking Method: You can choose between pan-searing, baking, or grilling the salmon based on your preference. Each method provides a slightly different texture and flavor but will result in delicious salmon.
  • Make-Ahead: The lemon garlic sauce can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for convenience.
  • Add Extra Flavor: For a little extra heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon garlic sauce or while cooking. It complements the salmon's richness perfectly.
  • For Crispy Skin: If you prefer crispy skin, pan-searing the salmon is the best method. Be sure not to flip the fillets too early—let them cook until the skin is crisp before turning.
Keyword Lemon Garlic Salmon