One Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon and Zucchini Noodles
This One Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon and Zucchini Noodles is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender, flaky salmon is paired with light and fresh zucchini noodles, all coated in a rich yet bright lemon garlic butter sauce.Perfect for busy weeknights, low-carb lifestyles, or anyone looking for a simple but satisfying dinner, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets about 150-180g each
- 2 medium zucchini spiralized
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Spiralize the zucchini if not already prepared.
Sear the salmon
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the garlic butter sauce
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the zucchini noodles
- Add the zucchini noodles to the pan and toss gently. Cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still slightly crisp.
Add lemon flavor
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to coat the noodles.
Combine and finish
- Return the salmon to the pan. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the fillets and let everything heat together for 1–2 minutes.
Garnish and serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.