This Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon recipe is a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and makes a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in no time. The salmon fillets are baked in a mouth-watering honey lime garlic butter sauce that infuses the fish with a wonderful depth of flavor. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- Salmon Fillets: Use about 4-6 fillets, depending on the size.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Honey Lime Garlic Butter Sauce
- Butter: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick), melted.
- Honey: 1/4 cup.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons (about 1-2 limes).
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish).
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
- Season the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add Honey and Lime Juice: Once melted, stir in the honey and lime juice until well combined.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the butter mixture and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
- Pour the Sauce: Pour the honey lime garlic butter sauce over the salmon fillets, ensuring each fillet is well coated.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon if possible, as it generally has a better flavor and texture.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is best for this recipe, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the salmon. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey lime garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Swap: Try using fresh cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking.
Q: What other fish can I use for this recipe?
A: This recipe works well with other types of fish such as trout, halibut, or cod.
Q: How can I tell if the salmon is done?
A: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I make this recipe on the grill?
A: Yes, you can grill the salmon instead of baking it. Just brush the sauce on the salmon while grilling.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 30g
This Baked Honey Lime Garlic Butter Salmon is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of honey, lime, garlic, and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender, flaky salmon. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy!
