30-Minute Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels elegant but takes minimal effort? This 30-Minute Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon is the perfect weeknight meal. Tender, flaky salmon is baked in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon for a bright, zesty finish.
It’s simple, healthy, and packed with flavor — perfect for busy evenings or even a light dinner party.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Minimal prep and cleanup
- Naturally low-carb & high-protein
- Family-friendly
- Perfect for meal prep
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 salmon fillets
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare Sauce
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Season Salmon
Place salmon fillets in baking dish. Spoon garlic butter mixture evenly over each piece. Top with lemon slices.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
⭐ Tips for Perfect Salmon
- Don’t overbake — salmon continues cooking after removing from oven
- Use fresh lemon for best flavor
- Add asparagus or green beans to the pan for a complete meal
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for golden edges
🥗 What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Garlic roasted potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- Rice or quinoa
- Fresh garden salad
❄️ Storage
Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
