Description
A tender and flavorful salmon fillet baked in a zesty lemon‑butter sauce, perfect for an easy and elegant weeknight or dinner party main dish.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Lemon slices, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Place salmon fillets skin‑down in the prepared baking dish.
- Brush or drizzle the lemon‑butter sauce evenly over each salmon fillet.
- Top each fillet with a thin lemon slice.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Optionally, broil the top for the last 1–2 minutes to get a light golden finish.
- Remove from oven, garnish with extra parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh dill or thyme for parsley.
- For richer flavor, use clarified butter or ghee.
- Check doneness early to avoid overcooking – salmon continues to cook slightly after removing from oven.
- Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple mixed‑green salad.