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Easy Lemon Butter Baked Salmon: Best 15-Minute Dinner

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This quick lemon butter baked salmon is the kind of dinner that feels special without being fussy—perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and ready in 15 minutes, it’s comfort food reimagined: healthier, faster, but with the same soul-soothing satisfaction.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon slices (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your baking dish or sheet pan in the oven while it preheats.
  2. Remove the salmon from the fridge about 10 minutes before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Check for any pin bones and remove them if necessary.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
  4. Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Lightly grease the surface with a little butter or oil.
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot dish, spacing them out so they’re not touching.
  6. Brush or spoon the butter mixture evenly over each fillet, reserving about a tablespoon for basting. If using, place lemon slices on top.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes. At the 6-minute mark, brush the reserved butter mixture over the salmon.
  8. Check for doneness: the salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 125°F to 130°F (52°C to 54°C) for medium.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest in the dish for 2-3 minutes.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley if using. Spoon the pan sauce over the salmon and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry for best browning. Don’t overcook; salmon continues to cook after removal. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or avocado oil. For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon butter salmon, baked salmon, quick salmon recipe, 15-minute dinner, easy salmon, weeknight dinner, healthy salmon, salmon fillet

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/easy-lemon-butter-baked-salmon-best-15-minute-dinner/