Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles is the perfect choice for a light and nutritious meal! With tender salmon fillets coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with crisp zucchini noodles, this dish is not only delicious but also light and healthy. It’s ideal for a weeknight meal or even a special occasion, offering both simplicity and elegance. If you’re craving something low-carb yet bursting with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
What Is Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles?
Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles is a vibrant, low-carb meal that combines the richness of pan-seared salmon with the lightness of zucchini noodles. The salmon is cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, giving it a rich and savory flavor, while the zucchini noodles add a fresh, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the salmon. This dish is not only healthy but also full of flavor, making it a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free, delicious meal that still feels indulgent.
Why You Should Make Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a balanced, healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s gluten-free, low-carb, and full of omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon. Zucchini noodles are a perfect substitute for pasta, making this dish suitable for those following a ketogenic or paleo diet. It’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients while still delivering maximum flavor. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing for different seasonings and variations to suit your tastes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles is sure to satisfy. 
Table of Contents
Ingredients Needed for Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
For the Garlic Butter Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee for dairy-free)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-By-Step Method For Making Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and parsley on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if the skin is on). Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
- Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden brown.
- Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- While the salmon is cooking, heat another pan over medium heat. Add olive oil.
- Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender (do not overcook to prevent sogginess).
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, if using. Toss to combine and remove from heat.
- Combine and Serve:
- Place the zucchini noodles on a plate and top with the cooked salmon fillet.
- Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the salmon and noodles.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations and Customizations
To make this recipe even more adaptable to various dietary preferences or flavor profiles, here are some specific variations, including ingredient substitutions and adjustments to the method. Whether you need a dairy-free, vegan, or flavor-packed twist, these modifications will help you customize this dish to suit your needs.
1. Dairy-Free Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
If you’re avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy this dish by using ghee or a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative. Here’s how:
Ingredients for Dairy-Free Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons ghee (or dairy-free butter)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (or dried parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Follow the same method as the original recipe, but replace the butter with ghee or dairy-free butter in the garlic butter sauce.
- If you’re looking for a richer, slightly nuttier flavor, ghee is an excellent choice. It has a higher smoke point and adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- The rest of the recipe stays the same—season the salmon and zucchini noodles as usual and enjoy a dairy-free version of this dish.
2. Vegan Garlic Butter “Salmon” with Zucchini Noodles
For a completely plant-based option, replace the salmon with a hearty plant-based protein like chickpea patties, lentil cakes, or a store-bought vegan seafood substitute. This variation keeps the garlic butter sauce but substitutes the fish for something equally satisfying.
Ingredients for Vegan “Salmon” Replacement:
- 2 plant-based patties (chickpea or lentil cakes) or vegan seafood substitute (like vegan fish fillets)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley (or dried parsley)
Method:
- Prepare the Vegan “Salmon”:
- If using plant-based patties or lentil cakes, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties or cakes according to package instructions, typically 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
- If using a vegan seafood substitute, cook it in the same manner as you would cook salmon, heating through until golden brown.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Replace butter with olive oil or use a plant-based butter alternative.
- Follow the same method for preparing the garlic butter sauce, adding fresh lemon juice and parsley to enhance the flavors.
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- Follow the same method for preparing zucchini noodles and season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
- Serve:
- Plate the zucchini noodles, top with the cooked plant-based protein, and drizzle with garlic butter sauce.
3. Lemon Dill Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
If you prefer a fresher, citrus-forward flavor, adding dill and extra lemon zest will give the garlic butter sauce a bright, vibrant twist. This variation is perfect for spring and summer meals.
Ingredients for Lemon Dill Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Method:
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and parsley as usual.
- Make the Lemon Dill Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In a skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh dill. Stir well to combine.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- Sauté the zucchini noodles in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder as usual.
- Serve:
- Plate the zucchini noodles, top with the seared salmon fillet, and drizzle generously with the lemon dill garlic butter sauce.
4. Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles and Parmesan
For those who enjoy a creamy, cheesy addition, adding parmesan cheese to the zucchini noodles after they are cooked will give them a rich, indulgent flavor that complements the salmon.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Parmesan Zucchini Noodles:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- Follow the method to cook zucchini noodles in olive oil.
- After the noodles are cooked, toss them in the pan with 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the noodles.
- Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese and toss until the cheese has melted into the noodles. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Prepare the Salmon and Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Follow the original method for preparing the salmon and garlic butter sauce.
- Serve:
- Plate the parmesan zucchini noodles, top with the cooked salmon fillet, and drizzle with the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan.
5. Spicy Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor of the garlic butter sauce and give the dish a spicy kick.
Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then cook in olive oil as directed.
- Make the Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If you prefer more heat, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the butter sauce.
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- Sauté the zucchini noodles as instructed, and season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
- Serve:
- Plate the zucchini noodles, top with the cooked salmon fillet, and drizzle with spicy garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional chili flakes if you want extra heat.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. A slight pink center is ideal, as it will continue to cook off the heat.
- Prep Ahead: You can spiralize the zucchini noodles a day before to save time when cooking.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a huge difference in flavor, giving the butter sauce a savory kick.
- Store Leftovers: Store leftover salmon and zucchini noodles separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra butter or olive oil to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it fully before cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid wateriness.
How can I make this dish spicier? You can add extra red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top of the salmon before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prep the zucchini noodles and garlic butter sauce in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge.
What can I serve with this dish? You can serve this with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
Garlic Butter Salmon with Zucchini Noodles is the ultimate combination of delicious, healthy, and satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, flavor-packed meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The garlic butter sauce adds richness to the perfectly cooked salmon, while the zucchini noodles provide a refreshing, healthy alternative to pasta. Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet, this dish will exceed expectations. Try it tonight and share your results – we’d love to hear how you made it your own!
