The Best Pan Seared Salmon

Picture this: the sun sets, casting a golden glow across your kitchen as the sound of sizzling fills the air. This pan seared salmon recipe is far more than just a meal; it’s a moment of warmth and delight, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. With a crispy exterior and tender, flaky flesh wrapped in the fresh zing of lemon and garlic, it’s comfort food at its finest. Nothing beats that first bite as the flavors melt together in perfect harmony.

Pan Seared Salmon

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A delightful pan seared salmon recipe with crispy exterior and tender flesh, brightened with lemon and garlic.

• Author: amanda-miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Paleo

Ingredients

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• 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
4. Sprinkle minced garlic around the salmon and cook for an additional minute.
5. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3 minutes until flaky and moist.
6. Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, avoid overcrowding the pan. Let the salmon rest after cooking to retain moisture. Adding herbs or smoked paprika can enhance flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Let’s Make It Together

Making pan seared salmon is a simple yet fulfilling experience, bringing together fresh ingredients into a comforting dish. As you prepare, the kitchen will fill with delightful aromas that wrap around you like a warm blanket in the winter chill. Ready to dive in?

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 salmon fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start by preheating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil until it shimmers like liquid gold.
2. While the pan heats up, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Once the oil is hot, gently place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet, pressing lightly to ensure even cooking. You’ll love the sound of that wonderful sear! Let it cook for about 4 minutes until the skin turns a beautiful golden brown.
4. Next, sprinkle the minced garlic around the salmon, letting the rich aroma drift through the kitchen. Cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to infuse its flavor.
5. Carefully flip the salmon fillets, using a spatula to keep them intact. Cook for an additional 3 minutes or until it reaches your desired doneness; it should be flaky yet moist.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the fillets. This bright and zesty touch brings the dish alive before serving!

Nutritional Snapshot

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 350
• Protein: 34g
• Carbs: 2g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 0g

Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy, making it perfect for a nutritious family dinner.

When to Enjoy It

Picture yourself enjoying this dish on a cozy night in, perhaps paired with a glass of your favorite white wine. Serve it alongside a crisp leafy salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy quinoa for a wholesome meal. It’s also delightful for brunch, served on a warm bed of spinach with a poached egg on top. Simple moments like these, shared with loved ones, turn a meal into something truly special.

Keep It Fresh

To store any leftovers, place the salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to preserve its delicious texture instead of using the microwave, which may dry it out.

Betty’s Secrets

• For an extra crispy skin, make sure to not overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook the salmon in batches.
• Let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps it retain its moisture.
• Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika before cooking adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Embrace seasonal herbs! A few sprigs of fresh dill or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving brightens the dish even more.

Creative Twists

• In the summer, try adding fresh lemon slices or even a touch of honey while it cooks for a sweet and tangy twist.
• For a comforting autumn flavor, toss in some dried thyme and serve it over roasted butternut squash.
• Curious about a spicy kick? A pinch of cayenne pepper sprinkled on the salmon before cooking adds a delightful punch!

Your Questions Answered

How long should I cook pan seared salmon? It generally takes about 7 minutes total, depending on thickness, to reach a perfect flaky texture.

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What should I serve with my salmon? This dish pairs wonderfully with bright summer salads, roasted veggies, or even creamy mashed potatoes for comfort.

Is it okay to undercook salmon slightly? Yes! Salmon can safely be enjoyed slightly undercooked as long as it’s from a reliable source; it should still be opaque in color.