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Salmon with Caper-Anchovy Butter

This elegant grilled salmon with caper-anchovy butter is a sophisticated yet simple dish that celebrates bold, Mediterranean flavours. The richness of the salmon is perfectly balanced by the sharp, salty punch of the capers and anchovies, while a touch of Cognac adds a subtle depth to the homemade compound butter. It is a wonderful way to elevate a standard fish supper into something truly memorable, providing a vibrant, savoury finish that melts beautifully over the hot fillets.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The flavoured butter can be prepared well in advance and kept in the freezer, making this an excellent choice for a quick midweek meal or effortless entertaining. Serve the salmon alongside steamed seasonal greens or a fresh watercress salad for a light and nutritious dinner.

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Ingredients for Salmon with Caper-Anchovy Butter

  • 4 garlic cloves

  • 3 anchovy fillets

  • 2 tablespoons drained capers

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon Cognac

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper

  • 110g (1 stick) butter, room temperature

  • 170g salmon fillets

How to make Salmon with Caper-Anchovy Butter

Blend first 7 ingredients in food processor. Add butter and process until well blended. Season to taste with salt. Lay sheet of plastic wrap on work surface. Transfer butter mixture to plastic wrap and roll to form 9-inch-long log. Freeze until firm, about 1 hour. (Caper-anchovy butter can be prepared 1 week ahead. Keep frozen. Let butter soften slightly before using.) Position oven rack about 6 inches below grill; preheat grill. Place salmon fillets on grill pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill salmon until just cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer to plates. Cut caper-anchovy butter into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Top each salmon fillet with 2 slices butter (reserve any remaining butter for another use). Serve salmon fillets hot.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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