Garlic Salmon with Peas Recipe

Imagine a sizzling pan filling the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of garlic and butter, while tender salmon fillets crisp up to golden perfection. The scent alone could stop time. Paired with sweet green peas that pop with color and freshness, this Garlic Salmon with Peas recipe is a weeknight dinner that feels like a little celebration.

Behind the Recipe

This dish was born from one of those evenings when simplicity and speed were non-negotiable. I opened the fridge, found salmon, a few cloves of garlic, and a bag of peas. What followed was a delightful surprise—something flavorful, comforting, and beautifully balanced. Since that night, it’s become a go-to that feels both nourishing and luxurious without needing much at all.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While garlic butter salmon is now a global favorite, its roots are inspired by Mediterranean simplicity—letting high-quality ingredients shine. Salmon, a fatty fish native to northern waters, pairs perfectly with the richness of butter and the brightness of garlic and lemon. Peas, often considered humble, have long been a staple in European kitchens, especially in springtime dishes. This combo brings rustic elegance to the table, in true farmhouse fashion.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Salmon with Peas

Let me tell you, this recipe checks all the boxes. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, it’s going to be a hit.

Versatile: Great with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread—whatever you have on hand.
Budget-Friendly: Just a few everyday ingredients come together into something special.
Quick and Easy: From fridge to fork in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Swap peas with green beans or add a sprinkle of chili for heat.
Crowd-Pleasing: Even picky eaters love the buttery, garlicky flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the sauce earlier and reheat gently.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day with a squeeze of lemon.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Want to get restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen? Here’s what to keep in mind.

• Pat the salmon dry before cooking. This helps it sear properly and develop that gorgeous crust.
• Use a mix of olive oil and butter. The oil raises the smoke point, while the butter adds richness.
• Don’t overcook the peas. Add them near the end to keep them bright and slightly crisp.
• Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after cooking so the juices stay inside.
• Finish with lemon zest for a fresh pop of brightness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy, just a few basics from your kitchen drawer.

Nonstick or Cast-Iron Skillet: Helps sear the salmon without sticking.
Tongs or Fish Spatula: Makes flipping delicate salmon fillets easier.
Garlic Press or Knife: To mince garlic finely for even flavor.
Citrus Zester: For that fresh lemon finish.
Small Saucepan: For heating peas gently without overcooking.

Ingredients in Garlic Salmon with Peas

What makes this dish special is how each ingredient complements the others—rich, buttery, garlicky salmon with sweet, vibrant peas.

1. Salmon Fillets: 4 fillets (about 6 oz each). The star of the dish, rich in flavor and protein.
2. Garlic Cloves: 4 cloves, minced. Adds a deep, savory aroma and taste.
3. Green Peas: 1 ½ cups, fresh or frozen. Brings a pop of color and sweetness.
4. Unsalted Butter: 3 tablespoons. Creates a silky, rich garlic sauce.
5. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Helps the salmon sear while balancing the butter.
6. Lemon: 1, zested and juiced. Adds brightness to cut through the richness.
7. Salt: ¾ teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances all the other flavors.
8. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground. Brings gentle warmth.
9. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. A fresh finishing touch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t stress if you’re missing an item—there are plenty of easy swaps.

Salmon: Try trout or steelhead.
Peas: Green beans or asparagus spears work beautifully.
Butter: Use ghee or a plant-based butter.
Lemon: White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar adds a similar tang.
Parsley: Use fresh dill or chives instead.

Ingredient Spotlight

Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a rich, nutty depth. It’s the backbone of the flavor profile here.

Salmon: With its naturally buttery texture, salmon is both satisfying and versatile. It holds up well to pan searing and pairs beautifully with bold or delicate ingredients.

Instructions for Making Garlic Salmon with Peas

This dish comes together quickly, so have all your ingredients prepped and ready. Let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Once the butter is melted, add salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes until golden.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Flip the salmon carefully and reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and remaining butter around the fillets.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Tilt the pan and spoon the garlicky butter over the salmon. Add peas to the skillet and stir gently into the butter.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Let peas cook for about 3 minutes until tender but still bright. Remove from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the dish.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Sprinkle with lemon zest and fresh parsley. Let salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Plate each fillet with a scoop of peas and drizzle extra garlic butter on top. Don’t forget the crusty bread to soak up every drop!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The best part of this dish is how the textures play together—the crisp-edged salmon with its tender, flaky inside, the slight snap of the peas, and the silkiness of the garlic butter sauce. Flavor-wise, it’s a harmony of rich, savory, bright, and fresh.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few extra gems to make your meal even better:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
• Let the garlic cook gently to avoid bitterness.
• Taste and adjust lemon juice or salt at the end.

What to Avoid

Mistakes happen, but here’s how to sidestep the most common ones:

• Overcooking the salmon—this dries it out and makes it tough.
• Burning the garlic—keep the heat moderate after adding it.
• Cooking peas too long—they’ll lose their color and sweetness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 410

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to get ahead, you can mince the garlic and zest the lemon in advance. Cooked salmon keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet with a bit of butter or cover loosely in the oven at low heat. Peas reheat well in the microwave or pan.

How to Serve Garlic Salmon with Peas

Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or with slices of toasted sourdough. A light cucumber salad or roasted carrots would make perfect sidekicks. For a fancier dinner, pair with a crisp green salad and lemon vinaigrette.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Salmon Toasts: Flake the salmon over toast with cream cheese and herbs.
• Pea Pesto Pasta: Blend leftover peas with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan for a quick sauce.
• Garlic Salmon Salad: Toss chunks of salmon into a leafy salad with lemon dressing.

Additional Tips

• Always zest your lemon before juicing.
• If using frozen peas, rinse them under warm water first.
• A touch of honey in the butter sauce can balance out the lemon.

Make It a Showstopper

To elevate the presentation, serve the salmon on a dark plate to contrast the vibrant green peas. Garnish with extra parsley and a paper-thin lemon slice for brightness. Wipe the edges of the plate for a clean look.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
• Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of cream for a richer finish.
• Herb Swap: Try tarragon or thyme instead of parsley.
• Citrus Twist: Use lime instead of lemon for a tropical spin.
• Veggie Boost: Add cherry tomatoes or sautéed zucchini.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?

A1: Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

Q2: What’s the best pan for searing salmon?

A2: A heavy nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best for an even sear.

Q3: Can I use canned peas?

A3: Fresh or frozen peas are better for texture, but canned peas can be used in a pinch.

Q4: How do I know when salmon is cooked?

A4: It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temp of 145°F.

Q5: Can I make this dairy-free?

A5: Use olive oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

Q6: What herbs go well with this?

A6: Parsley, dill, tarragon, or basil all complement the flavors beautifully.

Q7: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

A7: Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet.

Q8: Can I grill the salmon instead?

A8: Absolutely, just brush it with garlic oil and grill over medium heat.

Q9: How long will leftovers last?

A9: Stored properly in the fridge, they’ll keep for up to 2 days.

Q10: Should I remove the skin?

A10: You can if you prefer, but it gets nice and crispy when cooked right.

Conclusion

This Garlic Salmon with Peas recipe is one of those simple meals that feels a little fancy, tastes deeply satisfying, and never fails to impress. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, trust me, it’s worth every bite. Go on, give it a try—you’ll be hooked.

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