Steamed Salmon With Parsley Butter
A delicate steamed salmon dish topped with fresh lemon or lime slices, parsley butter, perfect for light, healthy meals or elegant dinners with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw fish if frozen.
- Top each salmon steak with lemon or lime slices.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Pour boiling water into wok to reach 1/2-inch below the steamer rack.
- Place fish on the rack.
- Cover wok and steam for 10 to 12 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Remove fish to a platter.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter with chopped parsley and sliced green onion or shallot.
- Serve the steamed salmon with parsley butter spooned over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh salmon if possible. If you're out of parsley, dill or chives can make excellent substitutes for the parsley butter. Adjust steaming time based on the thickness of your salmon steaks; thicker cuts may need a couple of extra minutes. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of white wine to the steaming water, which infuses the fish with extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the steamed salmon with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like a quinoa tabbouleh or roasted asparagus. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or couscous. This dish is a fantastic centerpiece for a seafood-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on low power for 30-second intervals until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the fish from becoming dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steamed Salmon With Parsley Butter contains roughly 313 calories, with 19g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (60% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value). At about 313 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before steaming to ensure even cooking. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight is the best method, but if you're short on time, you can also run it under cold water until thawed.
What can I substitute for butter in the parsley butter?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute olive oil or a plant-based margarine for the butter. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut oil, which will add a subtle flavor that complements the salmon well.
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque color throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on the steaming time, as overcooking can lead to a dry texture.
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).