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Easy Garlic Butter Herb Crusted Salmon: Best 20-Minute Dinner

easy garlic butter herb crusted salmon - featured image

This easy garlic butter herb crusted salmon is a quick, simple, and absolutely delicious dinner. The crispy, golden crust gives way to tender, flaky fish, and the garlic-herb flavor is just perfect, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional for serving: lemon wedges, extra fresh herbs, flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your broiler and move the oven rack to the top position, about 6 inches from the broiler element. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork to mash everything together until well combined.
  3. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet.
  4. Divide the herb butter mixture evenly among the salmon fillets. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to spread it in an even layer on top of each fillet.
  5. Place the baking sheet on the top oven rack and broil for 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness. Watch closely to prevent burning. The butter should be bubbly and golden brown, and the salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
  6. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a fillet and twisting gently. If it flakes easily and is opaque, it’s done.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the salmon rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and extra fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat the salmon dry for a crispy crust. Watch the broiler closely as it can burn quickly. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving. For oven-baked method, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or toaster oven, not the microwave.

Nutrition

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