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Crispy Baked Salmon: Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Fish

crispy baked salmon - featured image

A quick and elegant weeknight dinner featuring salmon fillets baked with a rich lemon garlic butter mixture. The high heat and parchment paper ensure a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 34 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
  • Splash of dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil or butter spray.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Remove any pin bones and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  4. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from heat and whisk in minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and juice of half the lemon.
  5. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
  6. Spoon the warm garlic butter mixture over each fillet, ensuring some butter gets under the edges.
  7. Bake in the center of the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  8. Optional: Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from oven, squeeze remaining lemon juice over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is crucial for achieving crispy edges. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is completely thawed and dried. For thick fillets, cooking time may need to be extended slightly. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked salmon, lemon garlic butter fish, easy weeknight dinner, healthy seafood, gluten-free salmon, keto-friendly recipes