LEMON GARLIC BUTTER SALMON FILLETS

Ingredients:

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless or skin-on)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce:
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Juice of 1 1/2 lemons (about 3 tbsp)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for light sweetness)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions:

Prep the Salmon:

1. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Sear the Salmon:
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and just cooked through.
5. Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
6. Make the Sauce:
7. Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and 3 tbsp butter.
8. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
9. Stir in lemon juice, zest, honey (if using), Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
10. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
11. Glaze & Serve:
12. Return salmon fillets to the skillet. Spoon the sauce generously over the top and let them simmer for 1–2 more minutes to glaze.
13. Plate and serve with the sauce poured over. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
14. Preparation time: 10 minutes
15. Cooking time: 15 minutes
16. Total time: 25 minutes
17. Calories: ~420 kcal per fillet
18. Servings: 4