Salmon Steaks With Herbed Lemon Butter
Salmon steaks topped with a flavorful herbed lemon butter create a delightful and elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of fresh herbs, lemon zest, and buttery margarine enhances the rich salmon flavor, appealing to seafood lovers and those seeking a quick, gourmet meal.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup diet margarine ⓘ
- grated peel of 1/2 lemon ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (tarragon, rosemary, basil or dried herbs) ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper ⓘ
- 4 to 6 salmon steaks (about 6 oz. each) ⓘ
- 2 to 3 teaspoons oil ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except salmon, oil, and lemon peel.
- On wax paper, shape the mixture into a 1 x 7-inch roll. Wrap and chill.
- Brush salmon steaks with oil.
- Barbecue, grill, or broil the salmon 4 inches from heat for 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until fish flakes when tested with a fork.
- Top cooked salmon with 1 teaspoon of herbed margarine.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using real butter instead of margarine. Fresh herbs can greatly enhance the taste; don't hesitate to experiment with combinations like dill or chives. If grilling isn't an option, broiling works well too. Ensure the salmon is at room temperature before cooking for even results, and adjust cooking times based on thickness. For a complete meal, serve with a fresh salad or browse more American recipes for complementary ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salmon steaks with a side of roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad for a balanced meal. Lemon wedges enhance the dish's brightness, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with Shrimp Fettuccine for a delightful seafood feast. Consider serving a crisp white wine alongside for a refreshing complement.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Cover and gently warm until heated through, being careful not to overcook. The herbed butter can also be frozen for up to a month; just slice portions off as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Steaks With Herbed Lemon Butter contains roughly 258 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1188mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen salmon steaks for this recipe?
Yes, frozen salmon steaks can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even cooking. If using frozen, pat them dry before brushing with oil to help achieve a nice sear.
What can I substitute for the fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs aren't available, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Italian seasoning or a seafood seasoning blend can also be good alternatives.
How can I tell when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance. For the best results, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Remove it from the heat just before it reaches this temperature, as it will continue to cook slightly while resting.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).