Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F.
• If the salmon is not already portioned, cut 1 1/2 to 2 lbs fresh salmon into 4 filets.
• In a small microwave-safe bowl, microwave 6 Tbsp unsalted butter until melted, then immediately stir in 4 cloves minced garlic. (Alternatively, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat and stir in the minced garlic, cooking briefly until fragrant.) Reserve the bowl with the melted butter-garlic mixture.
• Place the salmon filets skin-side down in a large casserole dish or on a large rimmed baking sheet.
• Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the melted butter-garlic mixture over the filets, ensuring each filet has a light coating. Set the remaining butter-garlic mixture aside for serving.
• Evenly sprinkle the 2 tsp ground paprika over the filets, then season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
• Bake the salmon at 400°F for 10 minutes.
• Change the oven setting to High Broil and broil the salmon 4 to 6 minutes, watching closely, until the top is slightly crisp and the fish is cooked to your desired doneness.
• To check doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a filet. Salmon is commonly considered fully cooked at 140°F; some prefer lower internal temperatures for a more tender texture. Remove from the oven when it reaches your preferred temperature.
• Immediately spoon the reserved butter-garlic sauce over the hot salmon (or serve it on the side). Let the salmon rest briefly, then serve.