Discover a mouthwatering salmon steak recipe that’s easy to prepare. Learn how to cook perfectly seasoned, juicy salmon steaks for a delicious and healthy meal.
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Delicious Salmon Steak Recipe: Easy and Flavorful
As a busy parent, I’m always searching for quick, healthy meals my family will enjoy. That’s why I’m thrilled to share this amazing salmon steak recipe with you. It’s not only easy to make, but it’s also full of delicious flavors that will make your taste buds happy.
Key Takeaways
- This salmon steak recipe is quick, simple.
- Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy event.
- The recipe uses fresh, wild-caught salmon steaks that can be seared to perfection in a cast iron skillet.
- Salmon is a regular family favorite, and this garlic butter salmon steak is tender, flaky, and crispy from the pan-sear.
- The garlic butter adds so much flavor, making this a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
What is a Salmon Steak?
When it comes to salmon, you have two main options: salmon steaks and salmon fillets. A salmon steak is a cross-section of the whole salmon that includes the bone. On the other hand, a salmon fillet is a lengthwise cut from the side of the fish that is boneless.
Difference Between Salmon Steaks and Fillets
Salmon steaks have more and bigger bones compared to fillets. The bone can add to their taste and nutrition. Salmon steaks have a firmer texture and stronger flavor compared to salmon fillets.
Both are delicious, but the choice often comes down to personal preference and the recipe being used.
- Salmon steaks have a more robust, meatier texture than fillets.
- The bone in salmon steaks can add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Fillets are more delicate and have a milder taste compared to steaks.
- Steaks are often better for grilling or pan-searing, while fillets work well for baking or poaching.
Whether you prefer salmon steak or salmon fillet, both are excellent sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other essential nutrients. The key is to choose the option that best suits your cooking method and personal taste preferences.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Salmon Steak
To make the perfect garlic butter salmon steak, you need a few key ingredients. The compound butter makes the dish special, and the salmon steak is the base.
Compound Butter Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons of softened salted butter
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped chives
- 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Salmon Steak Ingredients
- 1.5 to 1.75 pounds of skin-on or skinless salmon steaks, cut into 4 portions
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon wedges (optional garnish)
The mix of garlic butter and quality salmon steaks makes a tasty meal. With just a few ingredients, you can make your salmon steak even better.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon Steaks | 1.5 to 1.75 pounds, cut into 4 portions | 464 calories, 36g protein, 35g fat per serving |
| Butter | 6 tablespoons (about 1.5 tablespoons per serving) | 211 calories, 24g fat per serving |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | 9 calories, 0.2g protein, 0g fat per serving |
| Chives | 2 tablespoons, fresh chopped | 2 calories, 0.1g protein, 0g fat per serving |
| Parsley | 2 tablespoons, fresh chopped | 2 calories, 0.1g protein, 0g fat per serving |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt | 0 calories, 0g protein, 0g fat per serving |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper | 0 calories, 0g protein, 0g fat per serving |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon | 119 calories, 13.5g fat per serving |
This garlic butter salmon steak dish has 675 calories per serving. It has 17g of carbs, 45g of protein, and 48g of fat.
How to Make salmon steak recipe
Making a tasty salmon steak at home is simple. You can choose to pan-sear, bake, or grill it. The most important thing is to use fresh, high-quality salmon and follow a few easy steps.
First, let’s make the compound butter that will make your salmon steak recipe even better. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like chives and parsley. Add salt and pepper too. This butter will give your salmon a rich, garlicky flavor as it cooks.
- Pat the salmon steaks dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
- When the oil is hot, add the salmon steaks. Sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until it’s cooked through and flakes easily. The internal temperature should be 145°F.
- In the last 2-3 minutes, add the compound butter to the pan. Spoon it over the salmon as it melts and bubbles.
You can also bake the salmon steaks in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Or, grill them for 3-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Whichever method you choose, you’ll get a juicy, flavorful salmon steak. It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Serve it with your favorite sides, like fluffy rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad, for a complete and delicious dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon Steaks
To cook salmon steaks perfectly, follow a few key tips. Start by softening the butter to room temperature before mixing it with garlic and herbs. This makes sure the flavors mix well and the butter spreads easily. Choose salmon steaks that are the same size and thickness for even cooking.
To get a great sear, heat the oil in your pan until it’s hot but not smoking. Adding the salmon to a very hot pan helps keep the juices inside. Don’t move the salmon until it’s seared for 3-5 minutes on each side.
- Bring butter to room temperature for easier mixing with garlic and herbs.
- Choose salmon steaks of similar size and thickness for even cooking.
- Heat oil in the pan until hot but not smoking before adding salmon.
- Avoid moving the salmon until it’s had a chance to sear for 3-5 minutes per side.
By following these tips, you’ll make delicious pan-seared salmon steaks. Serve them with your favorite sides for a tasty meal.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Cooking | 350°F | 5 minutes |
| Outdoor Grilling | 400°F | 4-5 minutes per side |
Delicious Side Dishes to Serve
Enhancing your salmon steak meal is all about the right side dishes. From fluffy rice to roasted veggies, there are many tasty options. Here are 25 delicious sides to make your salmon steak dinner stand out.
Try the Lemon Roasted Baby Potatoes for a simple yet tasty choice. They’re golden in 35-40 minutes and serve 6. For a Mediterranean flair, go for the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad or Lemony Herb Couscous.
For a comforting classic, the One-Pot Broccoli Cheese Pasta is a grown-up mac and cheese. The Best Risotto is a romantic, indulgent option. The Sesame Noodles are quick and easy to make.
Craving something green? The Grilled Asparagus or Roasted Cauliflower are great choices. If you prefer something heartier, the Perfect Pan Fried Potatoes are a must-try.
This wide range of side dishes will take your salmon steak meal to the next level. Try different ones to find the perfect match for your salmon steak!
Many of these side dishes can be made. Store them in the fridge for a few days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat them quickly in the air fryer, oven, or on the stovetop.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storage and reheating can make your garlic butter salmon steaks delicious again. Let’s look at how to store and reheat leftovers for the best taste and texture.
Storing Leftover Salmon Steaks
Leftover salmon steaks can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container. This keeps the fish moist and flaky. For longer storage, freeze the salmon for up to 4 months.
Reheating Salmon Steaks
There are several ways to reheat your salmon steaks:
- Skillet Reheat: Warm the salmon in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until it’s hot.
- Oven Reheat: Heat your oven to 275-300°F. Reheat the salmon for 10-15 minutes, until it’s 125-130°F inside.
- Microwave Reheat: Microwave the salmon at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid overcooking.
Reheating your how to reheat salmon steaks gently keeps it moist and flaky. This prevents the fish from drying out.
| Reheating Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Skillet | Medium heat | Until heated through |
| Oven | 275-300°F | 10-15 minutes |
| Microwave | 50% power | 1-2 minutes |
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your leftover how to store salmon steaks just like the first time.
Variations on the Classic salmon steak recipe
The garlic butter is a timeless favorite, but salmon steaks offer endless possibilities. Try different seasonings and marinades to make it your own. Pair the salmon with various sides and flavors for a unique taste.
Alternative Seasonings and Flavors
Experiment with herbs and spices to elevate your salmon steaks. Swap the garlic butter for a rosemary and lemon compound butter or a dill and Dijon marinade. Add a bit of sweetness with honey or maple syrup in the butter. The flavor options are limitless.
| Seasoning Variation | Ingredients | Suggested Sides |
|---|---|---|
| Rosemary Lemon | Unsalted butter, fresh rosemary, lemon zest | Roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus |
| Dill Dijon | Unsalted butter, fresh dill, Dijon mustard | Steamed rice, sautéed spinach |
| Honey Mustard | Unsalted butter, honey, Dijon mustard | Quinoa salad, roasted Brussels sprouts |
Try different spice blends or marinades to create your own salmon steak dish. The possibilities are endless when it comes to elevating the flavor profile of your salmon steaks.
Benefits of Salmon Steaks
Salmon steaks are great for your health. They are full of omega-3 fatty acids that are good for your heart and brain. A 3-ounce serving of grilled or baked wild Atlantic salmon has 175 calories and 11 grams of fat. This makes it a lean and tasty protein choice.
Salmon is also rich in vitamins and minerals. It has over 100% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin B12. It also has lots of vitamin B6, potassium, selenium, and other important nutrients. These help keep your bones strong, your immune system healthy, and your nerves and brain working well.
Eating salmon regularly can bring many health benefits. The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can lower inflammation and heart disease risk. They can also improve your mood and brain health. Salmon’s high-quality protein helps with weight management by boosting your metabolism and making you feel full.
| Nutrient | Amount per 3.5 oz (100g) Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 182-206 | – |
| Protein | 22-25 grams | – |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 2.2-2.3 grams | – |
| Vitamin B12 | 117-127% of DV | – |
| Selenium | 75-85% of DV | – |
Adding salmon steaks to your diet can improve your health. They are delicious and packed with nutrients. Whether you grill, bake, or use them in recipes, salmon steaks are a tasty and healthy choice for any meal.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious salmon steak recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. It combines a perfectly seared salmon steak with rich, garlicky compound butter. This makes a meal that’s both restaurant-worthy and simple to make at home.
With just a few high-quality ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a healthy, flavorful salmon dinner in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dish to impress guests.
The secret is starting with fresh, high-quality salmon steaks. Let the natural flavors shine through with simple seasoning and the luxurious compound butter. Add your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
So, why not try this delicious salmon steak recipe tonight? It’s a great mix of flavor, simplicity, and nutrition. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between salmon steaks and salmon fillets?
A salmon steak is a cut from the whole fish, including the bone. On the other hand, a salmon fillet is a boneless cut from the side. Salmon steaks have bigger bones and a firmer texture than fillets. They also taste stronger.
What ingredients are used in the garlic butter compound for this salmon steak recipe?
The garlic butter compound includes softened butter, minced garlic, and herbs like chives and parsley. It also has salt and black pepper.
What ingredients are needed for the salmon steaks themselves?
You’ll need fresh or thawed wild-caught salmon steaks for this recipe. You’ll also need olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Lemon wedges can be used as a garnish.
How do you make the garlic butter salmon steak recipe?
To start, mix the softened butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper for the compound butter. Pat the salmon steaks dry and season them. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Then, sear the salmon steaks for 3-5 minutes on each side until they’re cooked. Add the compound butter to the pan during the last few minutes. Spoon it over the fish as it cooks.
Avoid moving the salmon until it’s seared for 3-5 minutes on each side.
What are some good side dish options to serve with the garlic butter salmon steaks?
Great side dishes include fluffy rice or quinoa and roasted vegetables like cauliflower or asparagus. Mashed potatoes, salads like arugula or coleslaw, and sautéed zucchini are also good choices.
How should leftover garlic butter salmon steaks be stored and reheated?
Store leftover salmon steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet with olive oil or in the microwave at 50% power.
Salmon steaks can also be frozen for up to 4 months.
Can the compound butter be customized with different herbs and seasonings?
Yes, you can customize the compound butter with different herbs and seasonings. Try adding rosemary, dill, or a touch of sweetness for different flavors.
What are the health benefits of eating salmon steaks?
Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and important vitamins and minerals. Eating salmon steaks offers these nutritional benefits and a delicious meal.