This Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is tender, flaky, and brushed with a drool-worthy garlic butter sauce! Baked on a sheet pan with your favorite veggies, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (5 to 6 ounces each)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
2. Arrange Broccoli: Spread the broccoli florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, brown sugar, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Add Salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet alongside the broccoli. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the broccoli is tender.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Nutrients per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 394
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 124mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 173mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why this garlic butter baked salmon recipe stands out. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma and a delightful taste that complements the natural richness of the salmon. Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can pair it with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is sure to impress. Moreover, baking salmon is one of the healthiest cooking methods because it preserves the fish’s nutrients while keeping it moist and tender. Unlike frying, baking requires little to no extra oil, making this dish a great option for those who want a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.

The Secret to Perfectly Baked Salmon

Achieving the perfect baked salmon is all about technique. One of the key factors is the cooking temperature. Baking the fish at 400°F (200°C) ensures that it remains juicy and flaky without drying out. Overcooking can lead to a tough, chewy texture, so it’s important to monitor the baking time carefully. Another secret to enhancing the flavor is marinating or brushing the salmon with a rich garlic butter sauce before baking. This allows the fish to absorb all the delicious flavors while keeping the fillets moist. The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs creates a savory, slightly sweet glaze that enhances the natural taste of the salmon. To elevate the dish further, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is considered one of the healthiest fish due to its impressive nutritional profile. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which helps in muscle building and tissue repair. One of the biggest health benefits of salmon comes from its high omega-3 fatty acid content. Omega-3s are essential fats that support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. Regular consumption of omega-3-rich foods like salmon can help lower the risk of heart disease, improve cholesterol levels, and promote better cognitive function. Salmon is also packed with important vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin D: Supports bone health and immune function.
• B Vitamins (B12, B6, and Niacin): Essential for energy production and brain health.
• Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure.
• Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

Pairing Garlic Butter Baked Salmon with Side Dishes

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it pairs with a variety of side dishes. Whether you prefer something light or hearty, there are plenty of options to complement the flavors of the garlic butter salmon.

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and carrots roasted with olive oil and herbs makes a healthy and colorful side.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add a comforting element to the meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: These grains absorb the garlic butter sauce beautifully, making them a great base for the salmon.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Pasta: Lightly seasoned pasta with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese pairs well with the rich flavors of the salmon.

Customizing the Recipe

This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

• Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused: Try using fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top of the salmon before baking for a rich, cheesy twist.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap the butter for sesame oil and add a drizzle of soy sauce, ginger, and honey for an Asian-style glaze.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, storing and reheating them properly will help maintain their taste and texture.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To retain moisture, reheat the salmon in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or olive oil. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the salmon.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers both flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender, flaky salmon with a rich garlic butter sauce makes it an irresistible meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Beyond its delicious taste, this dish is packed with health benefits, providing essential nutrients that support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.