How to Make Lemon Garlic Salmon
Lemon garlic salmon is one of those magical recipes that feels fancy but takes almost no effort. It’s fresh, zesty, buttery, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a light weekend dinner. Whether you bake it, pan-sear it, or grill it, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make lemon garlic salmon step by step, plus pro tips, variations, and serving ideas.
Why Lemon Garlic Salmon Is So Popular
Quick and easy to prepare
Rich in protein and omega-3s
Light, fresh, and not heavy
Pairs well with many side dishes
Great for meal prep or family dinners
The combo of lemon + garlic + butter enhances the natural richness of salmon without overpowering it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the salmon:
2–4 salmon fillets (skin on or off)
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 fresh lemon
Lemon slices (for topping)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins:
Fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
Red chili flakes (for heat)
Honey (½ teaspoon for balance)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Salmon Method 1: Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon (Most Popular)
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil.
Step 2: Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, mix:
Melted butter
Olive oil
Minced garlic
Lemon juice
Salt and pepper
Step 3: Arrange the salmon
Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish. Pour the lemon garlic sauce evenly over the fish.
Step 4: Add lemon slices
Top each fillet with thin lemon slices for extra flavor and aroma.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill and serve hot.
Method 2: Pan-Seared Lemon Garlic Salmon (Crispy Outside)
Heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat.
Season salmon with salt and pepper.
Cook salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes.
Flip, add garlic and lemon juice, and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
Spoon the sauce over the salmon before serving.
Method 3: Grilled Lemon Garlic Salmon
Marinate salmon with lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
Grill on medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
Finish with melted butter and herbs.
Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon Every Time
Don’t overcook – Salmon should be moist, not dry
Add garlic later if pan-searing to avoid burning
Always use fresh lemon juice, not bottled
Let salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving
Season lightly—salmon has natural flavor
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Salmon
This dish pairs beautifully with:
Steamed or roasted vegetables
Garlic mashed potatoes
Rice, quinoa, or couscous
Fresh green salad
Buttered asparagus or broccoli
For a low-carb meal, serve with sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles.
Healthy Variations to Try
Dairy-Free: Use only olive oil instead of butter
Spicy Lemon Garlic Salmon: Add chili flakes or paprika
Honey Lemon Salmon: Add a touch of honey for sweetness
Creamy Version: Finish with a light lemon cream sauce
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Reheat gently in a pan or oven (avoid microwaving too long)
Great for meal prep lunches
Final Thoughts
Lemon garlic salmon is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. It’s healthy, versatile, and foolproof—even if you’re new to cooking fish. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a regular on your menu.
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