Salmon with Lemon Butter

This Salmon with Lemon Butter recipe is a perfect balance of rich, buttery flavor and fresh herbs, making it a family favorite. The lemon herb butter, made with a blend of parsley, dill, and garlic, melts over the perfectly grilled salmon, infusing every bite with a tangy, fragrant richness. It's easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal.

Pair it with simple sides like steamed asparagus or a crisp garden salad, and you’ve got a delicious, light, and elegant meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, this salmon recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Salmon with Lemon Butter

For the Lemon Herb Butter:

• Unsalted Butter: Rich and creamy, it forms the base of the lemon herb butter, melting perfectly over the salmon.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a bright citrus flavor, enhancing the freshness of the dish.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Provides a tangy and zesty burst that balances the richness of the butter.
• Fresh Parsley: A vibrant herb that adds a pop of color and earthy flavor to the butter.
• Fresh Dill: Delivers a subtle, aromatic flavor that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
• Garlic (minced): Adds a savory depth to the butter, blending perfectly with the herbs and lemon.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors in the butter and bring out the freshness of the herbs.

For the Salmon:

• Salmon Fillets: Tender, flaky, and packed with healthy fats, the perfect fish for grilling.
• Olive Oil: Coats the salmon for grilling, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful with a slight crisp.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the salmon.

How to Make Salmon with Lemon Butter

1. Prepare the Lemon Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Place the butter mixture on a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a log. Refrigerate until firm.

2. Prepare the Salmon: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the salmon on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the salmon is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

3. Serve: Remove the salmon from the grill and place on serving plates. Slice the lemon herb butter into rounds and place a round on top of each salmon fillet. The heat from the salmon will melt the butter, creating a delicious sauce. Garnish with extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed asparagus or a fresh garden salad.

4. Dobar tek!

NOTES

• You can also pan-sear the salmon if you prefer. Cook it in a hot skillet with a little olive oil for the same amount of time.
• Feel free to adjust the herbs in the butter to suit your taste. Other great options include chives, basil, or tarragon.

How to Serve Salmon with Lemon Butter

• Steamed Asparagus
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
• Quinoa Salad
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
• Wild Rice
• Simple Green Salad

Recipe Variations

• Honey Lemon Butter Salmon: For a touch of sweetness, mix honey into the lemon herb butter. The honey caramelizes as the salmon cooks, giving the dish a sweet and tangy glaze.
• Spicy Lemon Butter Salmon: Add a little heat by mixing red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the lemon butter. This adds a spicy kick that complements the richness of the salmon.

• Baked Lemon Butter Salmon: Instead of grilling, bake the salmon in the oven. Place the salmon fillets on a lined baking sheet, spread the lemon herb butter over the top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
• Citrus-Herb Salmon: Replace the lemon with a mix of orange and lime zest and juice. The combination of citrus flavors creates a bright, zesty sauce that pairs beautifully with the salmon.