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Crispy Baked Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter

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This crispy baked salmon with lemon garlic butter is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that delivers a crunchy, golden crust and tender, flaky interior. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something impressive without the fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 whole lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the rack in the upper third of the oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil, spreading it around.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mash together with a fork until well combined.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Season with remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
  4. Divide the lemon garlic butter evenly among the fillets, placing a dollop on top of each. Do not spread; it will melt and coat the salmon as it bakes.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium or 135°F (57°C) for well-done. The butter should be bubbling and edges golden brown.
  6. Remove from the oven. Immediately squeeze the juice from the zested lemon over the hot fillets. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the salmon fillets very dry for maximum crispiness. Use room temperature butter for easy mixing. For thinner fillets, start checking at 8 minutes; for thicker, up to 13-14 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked salmon, lemon garlic butter salmon, easy salmon recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon, baked salmon

Find it online: https://jollyfork.com/crispy-baked-salmon-with-lemon-garlic-butter/