Baked Salmon with Herb Butter

Baked salmon is a wonderful, healthy choice that can be prepared quickly yet tastes like an indulgent, gourmet meal. By adding a rich herb butter to the mix, this dish becomes a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this baked salmon recipe is sure to impress. The key is enhancing the salmon’s natural flavor with a buttery herb mix, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and full of delicious, fresh flavors.

Why Choose Baked Salmon with Herb Butter?

Salmon is packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health, as well as high-quality protein and various vitamins. Baking salmon is one of the best ways to preserve its tender texture while keeping it moist. Combining the salmon with an herb-infused butter takes it to another level, ensuring every bite is flavorful, without overshadowing the fish itself.

This baked salmon recipe with herb butter is versatile, pairing well with various sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad. It’s an ideal meal for those who want something nutritious but also want to indulge in a rich, savory flavor.

Ingredients for Baked Salmon with Herb Butter

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Zest of one lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent the salmon from sticking.

2. Make the Herb Butter

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until well combined. This flavorful butter will infuse the salmon with a fresh, aromatic taste as it bakes.

3. Season the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly drizzle each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you love the flavor of lemon, you can add a little extra zest on top for an added citrus note.

4. Apply the Herb Butter

Using a spoon, evenly spread the herb butter over the top of each salmon fillet. Don’t worry if it looks like too much—once it melts in the oven, it will seep into the fish, enhancing its flavor and keeping it moist.

5. Bake the Salmon

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know the salmon is ready when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook it, as salmon can dry out quickly if left in the oven for too long.

6. Serve the Salmon

Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and allow it to rest for a couple of minutes. Transfer the fillets to plates or a serving platter, and spoon any leftover melted butter from the pan over the fish for added flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a lemon wedge for brightness.

This baked salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides—think roasted asparagus, mashed potatoes, or a light green salad.

Tips for Perfect Baked Salmon

• Buy Good-Quality Salmon: Whenever possible, choose wild-caught salmon over farmed for a more robust flavor and firmer texture. Wild salmon also tends to have a deeper color.
• Cook It Right: Overcooking can turn your salmon dry and chewy. To ensure perfect results, bake the salmon until it just starts to flake and reaches the correct internal temperature.
• Try Different Herbs: While parsley and dill are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as tarragon, basil, or chives to customize the flavor.
• Boost the Citrus: Adding more citrus can balance the richness of the butter. Feel free to experiment with lemon, lime, or even orange for a twist.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

This baked salmon recipe is a fantastic choice for both casual dinners and more formal gatherings. It’s easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation and flavor, making it a versatile addition to any cook’s repertoire. The herb butter enhances the salmon without overpowering it, while the baking method ensures a moist, tender result.

The simplicity of this dish means it’s also great for a busy weeknight. You can prepare the herb butter in advance and have dinner ready in under 30 minutes. And with only one pan to clean up afterward, it’s as practical as it is delicious.

Health Benefits of Baked Salmon

Eating salmon regularly provides a range of health benefits, primarily due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids. These are crucial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cognitive function. Salmon is also packed with lean protein and essential vitamins, including B12, D, and selenium.

Baking salmon is a healthier cooking method, as it doesn’t require excess oils or fats, making it a great choice for those looking to eat lighter. The herb butter adds a flavorful richness without being overly heavy, and the fresh herbs offer an extra nutritional boost, thanks to their antioxidant properties.

Perfect Pairings

Looking to elevate this meal even further? Here are some ideas to complete your baked salmon dinner:

• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with salmon, complementing the rich butter and citrus notes.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or even sautéed spinach make excellent sides, adding texture and fresh flavors.
• Grains or Potatoes: Serve the salmon with fluffy quinoa, couscous, or mashed potatoes for a hearty, satisfying meal. Sweet potatoes also make a fantastic, slightly sweet complement to the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Salmon with Herb Butter is a flavorful yet easy dish that’s perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for guests or simply enjoying a wholesome dinner on a weeknight, this recipe will deliver an impressive result every time.

The combination of fresh herbs, butter, and lemon brightens up the salmon, while baking keeps the fish moist and tender. Plus, with minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a great go-to option for busy days when you still want to enjoy something homemade and healthy. Give it a try—you’ll love how this simple recipe turns salmon into a dish full of flavor and elegance.

Baked Salmon with Herb Butter Recipe

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Ingredients 

Directions

Baked Salmon with Herb Butter is one of many healthy recipe ideas that you can find on our recipe page. 

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