Ingredients:

  • 4 center cut Salmon Fillets (approx. 6 oz each)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Coarse Sea Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 small Lemon, cut into thin slices
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened (115g)
  • 4 large cloves Fresh Garlic, minced finely
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Paprika (Sweet or Smoked)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). Line a standard half sheet pan with parchment paper for non-stick results and easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the salmon fillets completely dry using paper towels. Season the fillets lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, vigorously combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and paprika until thoroughly mixed and uniform in color. Set aside about 1 tablespoon of the compound butter mixture for basting after cooking.
  4. Using the back of a spoon or a pastry brush, generously smear the remaining garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each salmon fillet.
  5. Place 2-3 thin slices of lemon directly on top of or alongside each buttered fillet. Transfer the fillets onto the prepared sheet pan, ensuring adequate space between each one.
  6. Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 12 to 15 minutes. The salmon is perfectly cooked when it easily flakes with a fork and the internal temperature registers 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
  7. Carefully remove the salmon from the oven. Gently melt the reserved butter (about 10 seconds in the microwave) and brush it over the warm fillets for an extra glossy finish.
  8. Garnish immediately with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley and a tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.