When dinner time comes, you don’t want to spend hours cooking. This quick and easy salmon steak recipe is here to save the day! With just a few ingredients and 15 minutes, you can make a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Salmon is a favorite in our home, and this garlic butter salmon steak is a hit. The fish is tender and flaky, with a crispy crust from the pan. The homemade compound butter adds a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a fancy meal, impressing everyone.
Key Takeaways
- This salmon steak recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor from the homemade compound butter.
- The fish is tender, flaky, and crispy from the pan-searing, making it a restaurant-worthy meal.
- Salmon is a regular favorite, and this garlic butter salmon steak is a delicious and seemingly fancy dish that is very easy to prepare.
- The recipe is great for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
- The preparation time is just 15 minutes, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious and healthy salmon dinner with minimal effort.
Introduction to Salmon Steak
Salmon steak is a special cut of fish that offers a unique dining experience. It’s different from salmon fillets because it’s cut across the fish, keeping the bone. This makes the steak thicker and more substantial, with a rich texture.
These steaks are not only good to look at but also full of nutrients. They are a great choice for a healthy and tasty meal.
What is a Salmon Steak?
A salmon steak is a thick slice of salmon, cut across the fish. It includes the bone, keeping the fish’s natural shape. Unlike salmon fillets, steaks are thicker and more meaty.
They can be cooked in many ways, making them very versatile. This makes them a great choice for a main dish.
Benefits of Salmon Steak
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the heart and brain.
- High in protein, making it a filling and nutritious option for a main course.
- Versatile cooking methods, from pan-searing to baking, allowing for a range of flavor profiles and preparation styles.
- Provides a satisfying, meaty texture that can be a welcome change from traditional salmon fillets.
Looking to add more seafood to your diet? Or want to try a new way to enjoy salmon? Salmon steak is a great choice. It’s delicious and packed with nutrients.
Salmon steaks are a versatile and flavorful option that can elevate any meal. By understanding the unique characteristics and benefits of this cut of salmon, you can create truly exceptional dishes that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon Steak
To make the garlic butter salmon steak, you need a few ingredients. The compound butter adds richness and flavor. It’s made with softened butter, minced garlic, chives, parsley, salt, and pepper.
For the salmon, you’ll need thick-cut fillets. You’ll also need olive oil and salt and pepper for seasoning.
Compound Butter Ingredients
- 90g (6 tablespoons) of softened salted butter
- 1 tablespoon of finely minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped chives
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Salmon Steak Ingredients
- 1.5 to 1.75 pounds of skin-on salmon fillets, cut into 4 thick steaks
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to season
The compound butter gives the salmon a delicious, garlicky taste. The thick salmon steaks make a great, protein-rich main dish. With these ingredients, you can make a garlic butter salmon steak that’s sure to wow.
Preparing the Compound Butter
To make the how to make compound butter, start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, combine the softened unsalted butter, minced fresh garlic, finely chopped herbs like rosemary, parsley, and thyme. Also, add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Using a fork or a small whisk, mix all the ingredients together until they’re well incorporated. You want the how to make compound butter to have a smooth and creamy texture.
Once the how to make compound butter is ready, you can either use it right away or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. This compound butter can be made in advance and stored for up to a week. It’s a great time-saving component for your Delicious Salmon Steak Recipe.
“The key to a truly delicious salmon steak is all in the compound butter. It’s the perfect way to infuse your fish with amazing flavor.”
Cooking the Salmon Steak
Getting the how to cook salmon steak just right is key. Start by drying the salmon steaks with paper towels. Then, season both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
Seasoning and Searing the Salmon
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil when it’s hot. Place the seasoned salmon steaks in the pan.
How to sear salmon steak is easy. Let them cook for 3-5 minutes on each side. This will give them a golden-brown crust.
Adding the Compound Butter
Flip the salmon steaks and add the compound butter to the pan. Use a spoon to spread the butter over the fish. This will make a rich, flavorful sauce.
Don’t overcook the salmon. It should be cooked to 130-135°F. This ensures it’s moist and tender. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
“Salmon steaks are a fantastic choice for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The combination of a crisp sear and a luscious garlic butter sauce is simply divine.”
Serving Suggestions
This garlic butter salmon steak is best paired with impressive side dishes. Options include fluffy rice, quinoa, roasted veggies, and fresh salads. You can find many ideas on what to serve with salmon steak.
Side Dish Options
For a filling meal, try serving the salmon with white rice or quinoa. Roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini are also great, highlighting the salmon’s sweetness. For a lighter option, a crisp arugula salad or sautéed zucchini can balance the fish’s richness.
| Side Dish | Preparation Time | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Lemon Roasted Baby Potatoes | 30 minutes | 2 lb. baby potatoes, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp garlic |
| Lemon Butter Pasta | 15 minutes | Pasta, butter, lemon juice, garlic, parsley |
| Air Fryer Asparagus | 6 minutes | Asparagus, olive oil, salt, pepper |
| Creamy Parmesan Risotto | 20 minutes | Arborio rice, parmesan, broth, butter |
| Vegan Soba Noodle Salad | 5 minutes | Soba noodles, veggies, sesame dressing |
Garnishing the Salmon Steak
To enhance your salmon steak, add fresh lemon wedges, parsley, or chives. These garnishes not only look good but also add a fresh, herbaceous taste to the dish.
By choosing a variety of side dish options and garnishes, you can make a memorable salmon steak meal. Explore different ways to what to serve with salmon steak and how to garnish salmon steak for a meal that’s both beautiful and delicious.
Salmon Steak Recipe Variations
The garlic butter salmon steak recipe is a tasty classic. But, you can make it your own by trying different flavors. Add rosemary, dill, or honey for a unique taste. You can also bake or grill the salmon for a new twist.
For a baked salmon steak, heat your oven to 400°F. Roast the steaks for 15-20 minutes, until they’re 145°F inside. Grilled salmon steak is quick, needing just 4-5 minutes per side. Whether you pan-sear, bake, or grill, you’ll get a tasty, healthy meal.
| Cooking Method | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Baked Salmon Steak | 15-20 minutes | 400°F |
| Grilled Salmon Steak | 4-5 minutes per side | Medium-high heat |
| Pan-seared Salmon Steak | 8-10 minutes total | Medium-high heat |
Every way you cook your salmon steak recipe variations will result in a delicious meal. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
“Salmon steaks are a great way to enjoy the rich, buttery flavor of this incredible fish. With so many preparation options, the possibilities are endless!”
Tips for Perfect Salmon Steak
Cooking a delicious salmon steak is easy with a few tips. First, let the butter for the compound butter get to room temperature before mixing in garlic and herbs. This makes sure the flavors mix well. Choose salmon steaks that are the same size and thickness for even cooking.
When cooking, heat your oil well but not too hot before adding the salmon. This helps get a nice sear on the outside. Use two wide spatulas to flip the salmon steaks gently to avoid breaking them. Cook until the center is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This means your salmon steak is perfectly cooked.
- Bring the butter to room temperature before making the compound butter to make it easier to mix in the garlic and herbs.
- Look for salmon steaks that are similar in size and thickness so they cook evenly.
- Make sure the oil is hot (but not smoking) before adding the salmon to get the best sear.
- Use two wide spatulas to carefully flip the salmon steaks to avoid breaking them.
- Cook the salmon until the center is opaque and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
By following these tips for cooking salmon steak, you can make restaurant-quality how to cook salmon steak at home. With a bit of practice, you’ll be great at cooking perfect salmon steaks.
“Salmon is a superfood, packed with omega-3s and other nutrients. Cooking it properly is the key to maximizing its delicious flavor and health benefits.”
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Enjoy the tasty flavors of your garlic butter salmon steak longer by storing and reheating leftovers right. Follow a few easy tips to keep this healthy seafood dish fresh for days.
Storing Leftover Salmon Steak
Put leftover salmon steak in an airtight container and chill for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh and moist.
For longer storage, freeze the salmon for 2-3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, squeezing out air. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Salmon Steak
There are several ways to reheat your salmon steak:
- Stovetop: Warm the salmon gently in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat, flipping often, until hot.
- Microwave: Place the salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking often.
- Oven: Preheat to 275°F to 300°F. Place the salmon on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, until it reaches 145°F.
- Air Fryer: Reheat the salmon in your air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.
Use a food thermometer to ensure the salmon is hot and reaches 145°F, no matter the method.
Follow these tips to store and reheat your leftover salmon steak. This way, you can enjoy your garlic butter salmon steak for days!
| Reheating Method | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Stovetop | A few minutes | Medium heat |
| Microwave | 1-2 minutes | 50% power |
| Oven | 10-15 minutes | 275°F to 300°F |
| Air Fryer | 5-7 minutes | 375°F |
Other Delicious Salmon Recipes
If you like this garlic butter salmon steak recipe, check out our other tasty salmon dishes. Salmon is great because it’s both versatile and healthy. It can be made in many ways that are full of flavor.
Try our maple mustard salmon for a mix of sweet and savory. It has a glaze of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. This glaze caramelizes beautifully on the salmon fillets.
For a simple yet tasty dish, try our baked salmon. It’s seasoned with basic pantry items. This lets the salmon’s natural flavors stand out.
Our pan-seared salmon is perfect for a quick dinner. The salmon steaks get seared to perfection. This gives you a crispy outside and a tender inside.
| Recipe | Ingredients | Cooking Method | Nutrition (per serving) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maple Mustard Salmon |
|
Grill for 4 minutes per side |
|
Check out these and other other salmon recipes to spice up your seafood meals. Whether you like baked salmon recipe or pan seared salmon, we have something for everyone.
Conclusion
This garlic butter salmon steak recipe is a great way to make your salmon steak recipe better. It turns a simple meal into a fancy dish you can make at home. The salmon is perfectly seared, and the butter adds a rich flavor.
Looking for a quick dinner or a special meal? This easy salmon dinner will impress anyone. It only needs a few ingredients and simple cooking skills. You can make it again and again.
Want a delicious salmon dish? Try this garlic butter salmon steak. It’s fast to make and tastes like it’s from a fancy restaurant.
FAQ
What is a salmon steak?
A salmon steak is a cut of salmon that includes the bone. It’s thicker than fillets, which are cut lengthwise.
What are the benefits of salmon steak?
Salmon steak is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein. It offers a meaty texture and is great for healthy meals.
What ingredients are needed for the garlic butter salmon steak?
You’ll need softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like chives and parsley for the compound butter. For the salmon, you’ll need thick-cut steaks, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
How do you make the compound butter?
Mix softened butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
How do you cook the salmon steak?
Pat the salmon dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add the salmon and sear for 3-5 minutes per side. After flipping, add the compound butter to the pan and spoon it over the fish.
What sides pair well with the garlic butter salmon steak?
It goes well with fluffy rice, quinoa, or roasted veggies like asparagus. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or sautéed zucchini.
How can I customize the garlic butter salmon steak recipe?
Try different compound butter flavors like rosemary or dill. You can also bake or grill the salmon for a different taste.
What tips can you provide for perfectly cooked salmon steak?
Use room temperature butter and similar-sized salmon steaks. Make sure the oil is hot before cooking. Use wide spatulas to flip the salmon and cook until it’s opaque and flakes easily.
How do you store and reheat leftover garlic butter salmon steak?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with olive oil or in the microwave at 50% power.
What other delicious salmon recipes should I try?
Try maple mustard salmon, baked salmon, or pan-seared salmon. They’re all tasty and worth trying.