Herb Buttered Salmon

The succulence of perfectly cooked salmon, rich and flaky, with the rich, lush flavors of herb infused butter, results in a dish that is both elegant and incredibly satisfying. It is a dish that is not only pleasing to the palate, it also showcases the art of fine balance in cooking. With this recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. My kids love salmon and whenever I can get hold of some good quality salmon, I make this dish for them. Enjoy this succulent and flavorful herb buttered salmon as a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve with rice, noodles, roasted veggies or a salad @sarchakra

PREP TIME: 10 mins

COOK TIME: 10 mins

YIELDS: Serves 2

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless 4, about 6 ounces each
• Unsalted butter 4 tbsp, softened
• Olive oil 2 tsp
• Garlic 2 cloves, minced
• Juice of 1/2 a Lemon, freshly squeezed
• Zest of one Lemon
• Fresh parsley 2 tbsp plus for garnish, finely chopped
• Thyme 2 tsp, finely chopped
• Fresh chives 1 tsp
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper 1 tsp
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Method

• In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, and chopped chives.
• Season the herb butter with a little salt and pepper. Mix until well combined. Transfer the herbed butter onto a piece of parchment paper, shape it into a log, and refrigerate until firm.
• Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
• Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
• Heat a cast iron pan over medium high heat. Add a little oil. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
• Sear for 4-5 mins, until the skin is crispy and the fish is mostly cooked through and releases easily from the pan.
• Flip the fillet. Generously spread the herb butter mixture over the top of each salmon fillet, covering them evenly. As the butter melts, the rich, aromatic flavors will infuse into the salmon.
• Continue cooking for another 2-3 mins, basting the salmon with the melted butter until fully cooked. The fish should be opaque with a delicate, flaky texture.
• Transfer the salmon to a serving platter and spoon any remaining herb butter from the pan over the top of the fish. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
• Serve the herb buttered salmon hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

If baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake the prepared salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

For grilling, preheat grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down. Grill 4-5 mins per side, brushing with the herb butter occasionally. Cook till the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Rest for a couple of minutes for the juices to redistribute within the fish before serving.

Use fresh, high-quality fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets with vibrant color and a firm, moist flesh with a fresh, mild smell. Avoid fish that looks dull or has a strong odor.

Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before mixing it with the herbs and garlic to ensure easy spreading.

Customize the herb butter with your favorite herbs and seasonings, such as thyme, tarragon, rosemary, dill, basil, or lemon zest. They add unique flavors to the herb butter.

Adjust the baking time depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets to avoid overcooking. Salmon cooks quickly and can become dry if overcooked.

For an impeccably crispy skin, pat dry the salmon thoroughly before searing. Avoid moving them once thy are in the pan until they are ready to flip.

Cut the salmon into bites and serve them on toothpicks for an easy but delicious appetizer.

Add capers for a tangy flavor or a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

Basting the salmon with the herb butter enhances the flavor and keeps the fillet moist.

Serve the herb buttered salmon with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad.

For a paleo option, use ghee or grass fed butter.

If you try a recipe, please use the hashtag #sarchakra on INSTAGRAM for a chance to be featured!

FOLLOW SARCHAKRA ON FACEBOOK| INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST | TWITTER I TIKTOK FOR ALL OF THE LATEST CONTENT, RECIPES AND UPDATES.