Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs center-cut salmon side
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large organic lemon, zested and sliced into rounds
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the 3 tbsp softened unsalted butter with the 4 minced garlic cloves and the zest from your lemon. Use a fork to mash them together until you have a uniform, creamy mixture.
  3. Place your 1.5 lbs center cut salmon side on the pan and pat it completely dry with paper towels.
  4. Sprinkle the 1 tsp sea salt and 0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper evenly over the entire surface. Make sure to get the edges too.
  5. Spread the garlic butter mixture over the top of the salmon in an even layer. Use the back of a spoon to ensure every inch is covered. The butter should look like a thick frosting on the fish.
  6. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the butter covered salmon. These will act as a shield for the fish while adding a deep citrus aroma as they roast.
  7. Slide the pan into the middle rack of your oven. Bake for 13 minutes. Check for doneness by seeing if the thickest part flakes easily when pressed with a fork.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven and let the salmon rest on the baking sheet for at least 3 minutes.
  9. Sprinkle the 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving. Use a large spatula to lift the salmon off the parchment and onto a platter.