Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag? Then get ready to fall head over heels for this perfectly pan-seared salmon recipe. This isn’t just another salmon recipe; it’s a culinary experience. Imagine this: the delicate flaky texture of the salmon, perfectly crisped skin, melting into a luxuriously rich garlic herb butter. Each bite is a symphony of flavors—savory, bright, and utterly irresistible. The aroma alone will transport you to a cozy seaside kitchen, promising a delightful escape.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and speed. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create such an impressive dish. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy individuals or couples who want a healthy and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is unbelievably friendly, even for beginner cooks. I promise, you can absolutely master this, and the delicious results will make you feel like a culinary superstar! Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends with this unforgettable salmon dish. The juicy, flavorful salmon, paired with the aromatic garlic herb butter, is a match made in heaven! You’ll be craving this again and again.
What You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s dive into the details:
Salmon fillets (skin on): Four 6-ounce fillets, about 1 inch thick. Look for fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture. The skin-on adds extra flavor and crispness.
Sea salt:1 teaspoon. Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon.
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon. Adds a subtle touch of spice to complement the richness of the salmon.
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon. For searing the salmon to perfection. A high-smoke-point oil is recommended.
Salted butter: 6 tablespoons (softened). The base of our incredible garlic herb butter, providing richness and creaminess.
Lemon juice: 1 1/2 tablespoons. Adds a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed is best!
Garlic: 4 cloves (minced). A classic pairing with salmon, adding a pungent and aromatic element. Fresh garlic is key!
Fresh dill: 1 tablespoon (chopped). Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon (chopped). Provides a slightly peppery and fresh note to the butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create perfectly pan-seared salmon that’s bursting with flavor.
1. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a crispy skin. Season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the salmon: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot (a drop of water should sizzle), carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you may need to work in batches. Sear for 4-5 minutes, undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
3. Flip and cook: Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through to your liking. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part should register 145°F (63°C). If you prefer your salmon more well-done, cook for a longer period.
4. Make the garlic herb butter: While the salmon is searing, prepare the garlic herb butter. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. Finish the dish: Once the salmon is cooked, transfer it to a plate. Spoon the garlic herb butter generously over the cooked salmon fillets. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
6. Garnish (optional): Garnish with extra fresh dill or parsley sprigs for a pop of color and extra freshness. A squeeze of extra lemon juice is never a bad idea!
Tips for Success
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, not seared, salmon. Work in batches if necessary.
Pat the salmon dry: Excess moisture prevents the skin from crisping up properly.
Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality salmon and herbs will make a significant difference in the final flavor.
Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Let the butter melt: Don’t rush the process of melting the butter over the cooked salmon. Allow the heat from the salmon to gently melt the butter and infuse the fillets with flavor.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
Spicy Salmon: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic herb butter for a spicy kick.
Lemon-Dill Salmon: Increase the amount of lemon juice and dill for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor profile.
Mediterranean Salmon: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and oregano into the garlic herb butter for a Mediterranean twist.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently rewarm the salmon in a microwave or oven until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the salmon. Freezing is also an option; wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: While fresh salmon is ideal, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat it dry thoroughly before searing.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: You can substitute dried herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Q: How long does the cooked salmon last in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked salmon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use a different type of oil?
A: Yes, you can use another high-smoke-point oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil, but olive oil is ideal for its flavor.
The Final Word
This perfectly pan-seared salmon with garlic herb butter is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, easy, healthy, and incredibly flavorful. The combination of crispy skin, flaky flesh, and aromatic garlic herb butter creates a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media! Happy cooking!
Pan Seared Salmon
Equipment
- Large skillet Non-stick preferred
- Spatula
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 pieces Salmon fillets 6-oz, skin on, about 1 inch thick
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
Garlic Herb Butter
- 6 tbsp Salted butter softened
- 1.5 tbsp Lemon juice
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Fresh dill chopped
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip salmon fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While salmon cooks, prepare garlic herb butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley.
- Once salmon is cooked, top with garlic herb butter and let it melt slightly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!