Lemon Olive Butter Salmon: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

Lemon Olive Butter Salmon: Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to make. Imagine flaky, tender salmon, infused with the bright zest of lemon, the richness of olive oil, and the creamy decadence of butter. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing!

While salmon itself has been a staple food source for centuries, particularly in coastal communities around the world, the combination of lemon, olive oil, and butter is a testament to the power of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. This trio of ingredients, celebrated for their health benefits and vibrant flavors, has graced tables for generations, adding a touch of sunshine to every meal.

What makes this Lemon Olive Butter Salmon so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the delicate flakiness of the salmon, the smooth, buttery sauce, and the subtle tang of lemon. Beyond the taste, it’s also incredibly convenient. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a gourmet meal without the fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Even picky eaters will be won over by the deliciousness of this dish. So, let’s get cooking and create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Salmon:
• 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off, your preference!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, plus more to taste
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced (reserve half the juice for the butter)
• For the Lemon Olive Butter:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from the lemon used for the salmon)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Pinch of sea salt, or to taste
• Pinch of black pepper, or to taste
• Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley sprigs
• Lemon wedges

Preparing the Lemon Olive Butter:

Okay, let’s get started with the star of the show – the lemon olive butter! This is where the magic happens, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Trust me, you’ll want to put this on everything!

1. Soften the Butter: Make sure your butter is nice and soft. You can leave it out at room temperature for about an hour, or if you’re in a hurry, microwave it in 5-second intervals until it’s pliable but not melted. We want it soft enough to easily mix with the other ingredients.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped Kalamata olives, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Mix Well: Use a fork or a rubber spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed throughout the butter. You want to make sure every bite has a little bit of everything!
4. Shape the Butter (Optional): This step is optional, but it makes for a nice presentation. You can either leave the butter in the bowl, or you can shape it into a log. To shape it into a log, place a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the butter mixture onto the paper, and then roll it up tightly into a log shape. Twist the ends to seal it.
5. Chill the Butter: Place the butter (either in the bowl or as a log) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. This will make it easier to slice and serve. You can even make this butter a day or two in advance!

Preparing the Salmon:

Now that our amazing lemon olive butter is chilling, let’s get the salmon ready. This part is super simple, and we’re just aiming for perfectly cooked, flavorful salmon that will complement the butter beautifully.

1. Prepare the Salmon Fillets: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear. Check for any pin bones and remove them with tweezers if necessary.
2. Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets. Make sure to get every nook and cranny!
3. Marinate (Optional): If you have time, let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to really penetrate the fish. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Cooking the Salmon:

Alright, time to cook the salmon! You have a few options here – pan-searing, baking, or grilling. I’m going to walk you through pan-searing, as it’s my personal favorite for achieving that crispy skin and perfectly cooked interior. But I’ll also give you some notes on baking and grilling.

Pan-Searing (My Preferred Method):

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and let it heat up until it’s shimmering. The pan needs to be hot to get that nice sear!
2. Sear the Salmon: Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot pan, skin-side down if you’re using skin-on fillets. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the salmon in batches.
3. Cook the Salmon: Sear the salmon for about 4-6 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Don’t move the salmon around too much while it’s searing; you want it to develop a good crust.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Add Lemon Juice: In the last minute of cooking, squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the salmon. This will add a bright, fresh flavor.

Baking (A Hands-Off Method):

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place Salmon on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Salmon: Bake 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).
5. Add Lemon Juice: After baking, squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the salmon.

Grilling (For a Smoky Flavor):

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Prepare the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the salmon from sticking.
3. Grill the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon fillets on the grill, skin-side down if you’re using skin-on fillets.
4. Cook the Salmon: Grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Add Lemon Juice: After grilling, squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the salmon.

Assembling and Serving:

We’re almost there! Now for the best part – putting it all together and enjoying our delicious Lemon Olive Butter Salmon!

1. Plate the Salmon: Place the cooked salmon fillets on plates.
2. Top with Lemon Olive Butter: Slice the chilled lemon olive butter into rounds (if you shaped it into a log) and place a pat of butter on top of each salmon fillet. If you didn’t shape it, just spoon a generous amount of the butter over each fillet.
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges, if desired.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the salmon immediately while it’s hot and the butter is melting.

Serving Suggestions: This Lemon Olive Butter Salmon is fantastic served with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Roasted asparagus
• Steamed green beans
• Quinoa or couscous
• Mashed potatoes
• A simple green salad

Tips and Tricks:

• Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish. Use fresh salmon, good quality olive oil, and fresh herbs.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the lemon olive butter and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or red pepper flakes.
• Make it Ahead: You can make the lemon olive

  

  Conclusion:

  This Lemon Olive Butter Salmon isn’t just another fish recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The bright, zesty lemon perfectly complements the richness of the olive oil and butter, creating a sauce that’s both decadent and surprisingly light. The salmon, cooked to flaky perfection, soaks up all that deliciousness, making every bite a truly memorable experience. I genuinely believe this will become a staple in your kitchen, not just because it’s incredibly tasty, but also because it’s so quick and easy to prepare.

  Why is this a must-try? Because it elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but is effortless enough for a weeknight meal. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation means you can enjoy restaurant-quality salmon without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a healthy and delicious way to incorporate more fish into your diet.

  Serving Suggestions and Variations:

  The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving this Lemon Olive Butter Salmon. For a complete meal, I love pairing it with roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. A simple side of quinoa or couscous also works beautifully to soak up all that luscious sauce. If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, try serving it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside some roasted potatoes.

  And don’t be afraid to experiment with variations! If you’re a fan of herbs, try adding a sprinkle of fresh dill, parsley, or thyme to the sauce. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, while a drizzle of honey can enhance the sweetness. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding some chopped Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes. You could even try grilling the salmon instead of baking it for a smoky flavor. Another great variation is to add a splash of white wine to the sauce while it’s simmering for an extra layer of complexity.

  Ready to Dive In?

  I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I’m confident that you’ll love the bright, fresh flavors and the ease of preparation. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon.

  So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Lemon Olive Butter Salmon. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

  Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see what you create! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy!

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  Lemon Olive Butter Salmon: A Delicious & Healthy Recipe

  Flaky salmon fillets seared to perfection and topped with a vibrant, flavorful lemon olive butter. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that feels gourmet!

  Prep Time15 minutes

  Cook Time15 minutes

  Total Time30 minutes

  Category: Dinner

  Yield: 4 servings

  Save This Recipe

  Ingredients

  • 4 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, plus more to taste
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (reserve half the juice for the butter)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from the lemon used for the salmon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt, or to taste
  • Pinch of black pepper, or to taste
  • Fresh parsley sprigs
  • Lemon wedges

  Instructions

  1. Soften the butter.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, olives, garlic, parsley, chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix well until evenly distributed.
  4. Shape into a log using parchment paper or plastic wrap (optional).
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Remove any pin bones.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
  8. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
  9. Marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes (optional).
  10. Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.
  11. Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot pan, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
  12. Sear for 4-6 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
  13. Flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C).
  14. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the salmon in the last minute of cooking.
  15. Place the cooked salmon fillets on plates.
  16. Slice the chilled lemon olive butter into rounds and place a pat on top of each salmon fillet.
  17. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges, if desired.
  18. Serve immediately.

  Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will make a big difference in the final flavor of the dish.
  • Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the lemon olive butter and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
  • Make it Ahead: You can make the lemon olive butter a day or two in advance.
  • Baking Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Add lemon juice after baking.
  • Grilling Method: Preheat grill to medium heat. Oil the grill grates. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Add lemon juice after grilling.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, quinoa, couscous, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.