Garlic Butter Salmon in One Skillet

Garlic Butter Salmon is the star of this Tuscan-inspired skillet dish, where rich garlic butter mingles with bright lemon and briny capers to create an irresistible burst of flavor. The tender, flaky salmon soaks up every drop of this luscious sauce, making each bite a delight. And the best part? This impressive meal comes together in under 30 minutes, all in one pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion—let’s dive into this flavorful recipe!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon

• Salmon Filets (Preferably with Skin): Salmon is the star of this dish, providing a rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture. It’s an excellent source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, making it a nutritious choice.
• Dry Dill, Red Pepper Flakes, and Smoked Paprika: These spices add depth and complexity to the dish. Dry dill imparts a subtle herbaceous note, while red pepper flakes provide a touch of heat. Smoked paprika lends a smoky and mildly sweet flavor, elevating the overall taste.
• High-Quality Olive Oil (Divided): Olive oil enhances the salmon’s flavor and helps achieve crispy skin when searing. It’s a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health.
• Chopped Onion and Minced Garlic: Onions and garlic provide aromatic depth and savory undertones to the recipe. They serve as the flavorful base for the sauce.
• Roma Tomatoes: Tomatoes contribute natural sweetness and acidity to balance the dish’s flavors. They also provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a mild earthy taste. It wilts down during cooking, incorporating a dose of leafy greens.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (Chopped): Basil infuses the dish with its distinctive aroma and a hint of sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with tomatoes and elevates the overall freshness.
• Capers: Capers contribute a briny, tangy flavor, offering a delightful contrast to the rich salmon and buttery sauce.
• Dry White Wine: White wine imparts acidity and depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall complexity of flavors. It also complements the lemon and tomatoes.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Salmon

• Use wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and omega-3 boost—great for a Mediterranean-style meal.

• Keep pieces uniform in size for even cooking, and leave the skin on for added flavor and easier flipping.

• Preheat your skillet until hot before adding the salmon. A golden edge and easy release mean it’s time to flip.

• Check for doneness by pressing the thickest part with a fork—the salmon should flake easily and turn opaque.

• Skip the cream—this recipe uses white wine and broth for a light, rich base.

• Add greens like fresh spinach, or swap in kale or Swiss chard for a heartier twist.

Pairing Sides With Garlic Butter Salmon

Consider serving this flavorful salmon alongside a classic Traditional Greek Salad with crisp cucumbers and creamy feta. Or dive into the Middle Eastern flavors of Fattoush, a zesty bread salad that’s always a crowd-pleaser. If you want something more Italian, try a Tomato Panzanella Salad, where juicy tomatoes and crunchy croutons steal the show. For those seeking warmth and heartiness, a bowl of Warm Lentil Soup offers earthy flavors and plenty of protein. And, of course, there’s Tunisian Couscous, a fluffy and spiced side that rounds out your meal perfectly.