Dinner Seafood Healthy

Lemon Butter Salmon

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Seafood
Lemon Butter Salmon

Lemon Butter Salmon is an elegant yet simple dish that showcases the natural flavors of fresh salmon with a bright, buttery sauce. This restaurant-quality meal comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The combination of rich salmon, tangy lemon, and savory butter creates a perfectly balanced dish that's both satisfying and light. The addition of fresh herbs and briny capers elevates the flavors even further, resulting in a sophisticated meal that's surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz/170g each), skin-on
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Lemon slices, for garnish

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet (preferably non-stick or cast iron)
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zester or microplane
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  3. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet skin-side down. Cook without moving them for 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the salmon has cooked about halfway up the sides.

  4. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes for medium doneness (the center should still be slightly translucent), or 3-4 minutes for well-done. The internal temperature should reach 125°F (52°C) for medium or 145°F (63°C) for well-done.

  5. Transfer the salmon to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

  6. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced shallot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened, being careful not to burn the garlic.

  7. Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.

  8. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring to combine. Simmer for another minute.

  9. Stir in the capers, dill, and parsley. Cook for 30 seconds to warm through.

  10. Return the salmon to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Heat for just 30 seconds to warm the salmon through.

  11. Transfer the salmon to serving plates, spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top, and garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices.

  12. Serve immediately, while hot.

Tips for Success

  • For the best results, use fresh, high-quality salmon. Wild-caught salmon typically has better flavor than farm-raised.
  • Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon to achieve a good sear.
  • Don't overcook the salmon – it continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.
  • If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar.
  • This dish pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a simple side salad.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 420 per serving
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet with sauce

Variations

Herb-Crusted Salmon

Before cooking, press a mixture of fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme), lemon zest, and breadcrumbs onto the top of each salmon fillet for a crispy, flavorful crust.

Honey Glazed Salmon

Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon.

Mediterranean Style

Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the sauce during the last minute of cooking for a Mediterranean twist.

*Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

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