Salmon Fillets with Orange Basil Butter
Elevate your seafood dinner game with this vibrant recipe for Salmon Fillets with Orange Basil Butter. Perfectly seared salmon, golden and crispy on the outside yet tender and flaky inside, is topped with a luscious butter infused with the zesty brightness of orange and the fresh, aromatic touch of basil. A subtle hint of garlic enhances the dish, while optional paprika adds a pop of color. Ready in just 25 minutes, this elegant yet simple dish is an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad, and let the citrus-herb flavors shine. This recipe is a delightful combination of gourmet flair and easy preparation, offering a meal that's both impressive and comforting.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic cloves (minced)
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)
Instructions
In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter, freshly chopped basil leaves, orange zest, and orange juice. Mix together with a fork until smooth and well incorporated. Set aside in the refrigerator to firm up slightly.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) or presentation side down (if skinless).
Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula, and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through. (The internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C.)
Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Remove the skillet from the heat and spoon the prepared orange basil butter onto each salmon fillet. Allow the butter to melt and coat the fillets with its citrus-herb flavors.
Transfer the salmon to serving plates. Drizzle any remaining pan drippings over the fillets for extra flavor.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a light green salad, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
540 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 42.8 g | 55% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.7 g | 83% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 154 mg | 51% | |
| Sodium | 345 mg | 15% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1.6 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.2 g | 1% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.6 g | ||
| Protein | 37.9 g | 76% | |
| Vitamin D | 22.6 mcg | 113% | |
| Calcium | 26 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.0 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 657 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
