This keto lemon garlic salmon recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. It’s quick, easy, and packed with good fats and protein, fitting perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle. The bright lemon and savory garlic create a wonderful combination that complements the richness of the salmon. I’ve found this to be a go-to recipe when I want something satisfying but don’t have a lot of time. It’s also a great way to introduce people to the deliciousness of keto meals.
I remember once making this for friends who were skeptical about the keto diet. They were amazed at how flavorful and satisfying it was, without any of the heavy carbs they expected. It completely changed their perspective, and I think you may have a change in your own perspective as well.
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Reasons to Try Keto Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Keto-Friendly: This recipe is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it ideal for a ketogenic diet.
- Rich in Omega-3s: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.
- High in Protein: Salmon provides a good amount of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared and cooked in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a delicious and satisfying taste.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Where Did Salmon Recipes Come From?
Salmon has been a food source for humans for thousands of years. Evidence suggests that even Neanderthals ate salmon 200,000 years ago. Ancient Gauls and Romans built ponds to keep captured salmon fresh. Salmon was prized and served at the tables of French kings. During the Middle Ages, salmon recipes appeared in cookbooks. Salmon was abundant on both the East and West Coasts of North America. Indigenous tribes heavily relied on salmon. Early European colonizers ate so much salmon that some indentured servants had clauses in their contracts limiting salmon meals. Today, most Atlantic salmon comes from Canada and Europe.
Ingredients Notes
- Salmon: You can use skin-on or skinless salmon fillets. Wild-caught salmon generally has a richer flavor and more nutrients, but farmed salmon works well too.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. The lemon zest adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is crucial for the best flavor. Use minced or pressed garlic.
- Avocado Oil: A healthy, high-heat cooking oil that’s perfect for searing salmon.
- Butter or Ghee: Use unsalted butter if not on Whole30, otherwise, use ghee.
- Heavy Cream: Essential to create the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and color to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
How to Make Keto Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, combine avocado oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Salmon: Drizzle the lemon garlic mixture over the salmon, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Sear the Salmon (Option 1): Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy.
- Bake the Salmon (Option 2): Place salmon in a baking dish or on a rimmed sheet pan, skin-side down. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce (Optional): In a pan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Serve: Serve the salmon on a plate, with the sauce on the side.
What You Must Know About Keto Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. Overcooking will make it dry.
- Pat Dry: Patting the salmon dry helps it sear properly and develop a crispy crust (if pan-searing).
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Use fresh ingredients for the most authentic flavors.
- If baking, place salmon skin-side down.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in the lemon garlic mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herbs: Add other fresh herbs like dill or thyme.
- Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Other Fish: This recipe can also be used with other types of fish, such as trout.
- Capers: Capers could be added to the recipe to add an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions for Keto Lemon Garlic Salmon
- Cauliflower Mash: Serve with creamy cauliflower mash for a classic keto side dish.
- Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus pairs well with salmon.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing accompaniment.
- Zucchini Noodles: Serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb pasta alternative.
Storage
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions about Keto Lemon Garlic Salmon
Is salmon keto-friendly?
Yes, salmon is naturally keto-friendly as it is high in fat and protein and contains virtually no carbohydrates.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it completely before cooking.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil, but avocado oil is preferred for its high smoke point.
Amazing creamy Keto Lemon Garlic Salmon – Ready in Under 30 Minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 6 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup heavy cream optional, for sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter/ghee
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 Lemon Zest
Instructions
- Prepare Salmon: Pat 4 salmon fillets dry. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons avocado oil, 2-3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Coat Salmon: Drizzle mixture over salmon, coating evenly.
- Sear (Option 1): Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Bake (Option 2): Place salmon in a baking dish. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Make Sauce (Optional): In a pan, combine ¼ cup heavy cream, lemon juice, and garlic. Simmer until thickened. Add parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Serve. Add the salmon to the plate, and serve the sauce on the side.
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: 25-35g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 1-3g (mostly from lemon and garlic)
- Fiber: <1g
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