If you’re a fan of Costco’s fresh salmon, you’re going to love this easy salmon butter recipe that takes your meal to the next level. We’ve combined simple ingredients to create a rich and flavorful butter that melts perfectly over your salmon, enhancing its natural taste without overpowering it.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinners when you want something impressive but effortless. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing your salmon, this buttery topping adds a deliciously creamy finish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this Costco salmon butter recipe with just a few ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Costco Salmon Butter Recipe, we gather fresh, quality ingredients that bring out the rich flavors of salmon with a creamy, savory butter sauce. Below are the essentials we use to make this dish truly stand out.
For the Salmon
- 2 pounds fresh salmon fillets from Costco, skin-on, trimmed and patted dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil, for searing
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Butter Sauce
Our buttery sauce combines classic ingredients to add a luscious finish that complements the salmon’s natural flavor perfectly.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 garlic cloves, minced finely
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped finely (or ½ teaspoon dried dill)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for subtle smoky depth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
Enhance presentation and add texture with these beautiful finishing touches:
| Garnish | Notes |
|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | Chopped finely for color and freshness |
| Lemon wedges | Adds zest and brightness on the side |
| Capers | Provide a briny punch that pairs well with butter sauce |
| Chives | Offers mild onion flavor and garnish appeal |
Each ingredient works in harmony to elevate our Costco Salmon Butter Recipe into a delicious, memorable meal.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Costco Salmon Butter Recipe successfully, having the right equipment ensures efficient cooking and a perfect finish. Here is a detailed list of what we recommend for the best results:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Non-stick skillet or grill pan | For searing or grilling the salmon evenly with minimal sticking |
| Small saucepan | To melt and combine the butter with garlic and seasonings |
| Mixing bowl | To blend the butter sauce ingredients smoothly |
| Measuring spoons and cups | To measure spices, lemon juice, and butter precisely |
| Sharp chef’s knife | For finely mincing garlic and chopping fresh herbs like dill |
| Cutting board | Provides a stable surface for prepping ingredients |
| Tongs or spatula | To flip and handle the salmon without breaking the fillets |
| Serving plate or platter | To present the finished salmon with butter drizzle beautifully |
We emphasize using a non-stick skillet or grill pan as it helps maintain the salmon’s delicate texture while giving a beautiful sear. The small saucepan is essential for gently melting the butter with garlic and other flavors, ensuring they infuse perfectly before topping the salmon.
By preparing these key tools ahead of time, we can focus on layering the rich, buttery flavors over Costco’s fresh salmon fillets with ease and precision. This streamlined equipment list keeps the process straightforward, reflecting how simple and accessible this recipe truly is.
Preparation
To master our Costco Salmon Butter Recipe, we begin by properly preparing the salmon and crafting the rich butter sauce that brings the dish to life. Each step builds essential flavor and texture for a memorable meal.
Preparing the Salmon
- Pat Dry the Salmon Fillets
Use paper towels to gently pat the 2 pounds of fresh Costco salmon fillets dry. This ensures a crisp sear and better butter adhesion.
- Season Evenly
Liberally season both sides of the fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the seasoning to create a balanced flavor foundation.
- Apply Oil
Lightly brush the salmon with olive or avocado oil. This oil layer protects the delicate fish during cooking and enhances browning.
- Rest at Room Temperature
Let the seasoned fillets rest for 10 minutes. This step allows even cooking and better flavor absorption.
| Step Number | Action | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pat salmon dry | Use paper towels |
| 2 | Season both sides | Salt and pepper |
| 3 | Brush with oil | Olive or avocado oil |
| 4 | Rest 10 minutes | At room temperature |
Preparing the Butter Sauce
- Melt Unsalted Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to avoid browning.
- Add Aromatics
Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic immediately after the butter has melted. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Incorporate Flavor Enhancers
Mix in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard. These ingredients add brightness and emulsify the sauce.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Spices
Stir in 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill leaves and optionally ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth.
- Simmer and Whisk
Maintain a low heat and whisk the sauce gently for 1–2 minutes to blend all elements smoothly.
- Taste and Adjust
Taste the butter sauce. Add salt or more lemon juice as needed for balance.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Creamy base |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | Adds aromatic depth |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Brightens flavor |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Emulsifies and adds tanginess |
| Fresh dill | 1 tablespoon | Herbal freshness |
| Smoked paprika (opt) | ¼ teaspoon | Adds smoky warmth (optional) |
By completing these preparation steps, we create an impeccably seasoned salmon and an irresistible butter sauce ready to blend harmoniously in this Costco Salmon Butter Recipe.
Cooking Instructions
To achieve the perfect Costco Salmon Butter, precise cooking steps are essential. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a moist, flavorful salmon paired with a rich, velvety butter sauce.
Cooking the Salmon
- Preheat your non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive or avocado oil to coat the surface.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. This helps to lock in moisture and create a crisp skin.
- Cook the salmon for 4 to 5 minutes without moving, allowing a golden crust to form.
- Flip the salmon gently using tongs or a spatula. Continue to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the salmon from heat and let it rest on a warm plate for 2 minutes to redistribute juices for optimal tenderness.
| Step | Action | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat pan & add oil | 2-3 minutes | Use medium-high heat |
| 2 | Cook skin-side down | 4-5 minutes | Do not move for crust formation |
| 3 | Flip and cook other side | 3-4 minutes | Check for opacity and flakiness |
| 4 | Rest salmon on plate | 2 minutes | Juices redistribute for moistness |
Making the Butter Sauce
- Melt unsalted butter gently in a small saucepan over low heat to avoid browning.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant — do not let it brown.
- Whisk in fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and finely chopped dill. Stir continuously to blend flavors seamlessly.
- For a smoky depth, sprinkle in smoked paprika if desired.
- Simmer the sauce on very low heat for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and warm.
- Remove from the heat and keep the butter sauce warm until ready to serve alongside the salmon.
“The butter sauce is the signature element of our Costco Salmon Butter recipe. Its creamy texture and bright lemon notes complement the rich salmon perfectly.“
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons | Melted gently |
| Minced Garlic | 2 cloves | Finely minced |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 teaspoon | Smooth |
| Fresh Dill | 1 tablespoon | Finely chopped |
| Smoked Paprika (opt) | ¼ teaspoon | For smoky flavor |
By closely following these steps we ensure every bite of our Costco Salmon Butter delivers balanced richness, bright acidity, and a satisfying buttery finish.
Assembling and Serving
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection and our Costco Salmon Butter sauce is warmed through, it’s time to bring everything together for an irresistible presentation and flavor experience.
Applying the Butter Sauce
We begin by placing the cooked salmon fillets on a warm serving platter or individual plates. Using a spoon, generously drizzle the rich salmon butter sauce over each fillet, ensuring every bite will be infused with the creamy, garlicky, lemony goodness. For an added touch, we can also gently brush some sauce on the sides of the salmon to coat it evenly. The butter sauce should still be warm for the best texture and flavor release.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Place salmon fillet skin-side down on plate |
| 2 | Spoon melted butter sauce evenly on top |
| 3 | Brush sides lightly to coat entire fillet |
| 4 | Let rest 1-2 minutes for sauce to absorb |
Serving Suggestions
Our Costco Salmon Butter pairs beautifully with various side dishes and garnishes that complement its bright, buttery profile:
- Fresh lemon wedges to add a final citrus squeeze at the table
- Chopped fresh parsley or dill sprinkled on top for vibrant color and herbal notes
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or carrots
- Fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up extra butter sauce
- Light salad with vinaigrette for a fresh contrast that balances richness
For an elegant touch and texture, we recommend garnishing with a few capers or finely sliced chives. This step enhances both the flavor complexity and plate presentation, making this dish perfect for casual meals and special occasions alike.
Make-Ahead Tips
To make our Costco Salmon Butter Recipe more convenient for busy days or planned gatherings, here are essential make-ahead strategies that keep flavors fresh and textures perfect.
Prepare the Butter Sauce in Advance
We can easily prepare the rich buttery sauce up to 2 days before cooking. Follow these steps:
- Melt the unsalted butter gently.
- Sauté the minced garlic briefly.
- Whisk in fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, and optional smoked paprika.
- Let the sauce cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Before serving, warm the sauce gently over low heat while whisking to restore its silky texture.
| Step | Time Frame | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare butter sauce | Up to 2 days prior | Airtight container in fridge |
| Reheat before serving | 3-5 minutes | Low heat whisking restores texture |
Season and Rest Salmon Early
To achieve even, flavorful salmon we can season fillets up to 6 hours before cooking:
- Pat the salmon dry and brush with olive or avocado oil.
- Season evenly with salt and pepper.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate until 30 minutes before cooking.
- Bring to room temperature for optimal cooking performance.
Portion and Garnish Ahead
- Portion cooked salmon and store in shallow airtight containers for up to 2 days.
- Prepare garnishes like lemon wedges, chopped parsley, capers, and chives ahead, storing them separately in small containers to maintain freshness and vibrant color.
Freeze for Longer Storage
If we want to store the butter sauce longer:
- Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze.
- Transfer frozen cubes to a sealed freezer bag.
- Use within 1 month.
- Thaw cubes in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently when ready to use.
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we save time and streamline our cooking process without compromising the bright and buttery flavors that make this recipe a standout.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of our Costco Salmon Butter and cooked salmon ensures freshness and maintains the bold flavors we carefully craft in this recipe.
Storing the Butter Sauce
- Allow the salmon butter to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer the butter sauce into an airtight container.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to preserve the fresh herbs and bright lemon flavor.
- For longer storage, freeze the butter in ice cube trays.
- Once frozen, pop the cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Use frozen butter cubes within 1 month for best quality and flavor.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate | Airtight container | Up to 2 days | Maintain freshness and herbs |
| Freeze (ice cubes) | Ice cube tray + freezer bag | Up to 1 month | Easy portioning and long storage |
Storing Raw Salmon Fillets
- If you plan to season the salmon ahead of time, do so up to 6 hours before cooking.
- Wrap salmon fillets tightly in plastic wrap or place in a sealed container.
- Keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator.
- Use the salmon within 24 hours of purchase for optimal texture and flavor.
Storing Cooked Salmon
- Let cooked salmon cool to room temperature but no longer than 2 hours.
- Place salmon in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate cooked salmon for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in an oven preheated to 300°F for 10–15 minutes to avoid drying out.
Tips to Maintain Quality
- Always avoid leaving butter or salmon at room temperature for extended periods.
- Label containers with dates to track freshness.
- Freeze leftovers promptly to maximize taste and texture.
Conclusion
This Costco Salmon Butter Recipe brings a perfect balance of rich, tangy, and fresh flavors that elevate any salmon dish. It’s easy to prepare and adaptable to your favorite cooking methods, making it ideal for quick weeknight meals or special occasions.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can confidently create a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Plus, the make-ahead tips and storage advice help us save time without sacrificing taste.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a buttery, flavorful salmon experience that’s sure to become a favorite in our kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients do I need to make Costco Salmon Butter?
You’ll need fresh salmon fillets, olive or avocado oil, unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Optional extras include smoked paprika, fresh parsley, lemon wedges, capers, and chives for garnish.
How do I prepare the salmon before cooking?
Pat the salmon dry, season with salt and pepper evenly, brush lightly with oil, and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
What is the best way to cook salmon for this recipe?
Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan, cook the salmon skin-side down first to lock in moisture, then flip and cook until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
How do I make the butter sauce?
Melt unsalted butter gently, sauté minced garlic, then whisk in fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill. Simmer on low heat and add smoked paprika if desired.
Can I prepare the butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the butter sauce up to two days before and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it in ice cube trays for up to one month.
How should I store raw and cooked salmon?
Season raw salmon up to six hours before cooking and keep it tightly wrapped in the coldest part of your fridge, using it within 24 hours. Store cooked salmon in an airtight container or wrapped tightly, refrigerated for up to three days.
What are some good serving suggestions for Costco Salmon Butter?
Serve with steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or a light salad. Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or capers to enhance flavor and presentation.
Can this butter sauce be used with other cooking methods?
Yes, it’s versatile and works well when grilling, baking, or pan-searing salmon, adding a creamy, flavorful finish to the dish.