Easy Pan Seared Salmon Recipe
This Easy Pan Seared Salmon recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare salmon fillets with a crispy skin and tender, juicy interior. Using just olive oil and butter, the salmon is seasoned with salt and pepper, then seared to perfection on the stovetop in under 10 minutes, making it a quick and healthy meal option perfect for any day of the week.
- Author: Sienna
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Salmon
- 1 pound salmon, cut into 4 pieces
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Cooking Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Prepare the salmon: Remove the salmon from the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Cut it into 4 equal pieces and pat dry with a paper towel. Season each piece generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet on medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter and allow the skillet to get hot for a few minutes until the butter is melted and the mixture is shimmering.
- Sear the salmon skin-side down: Place the salmon pieces skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes without moving them to achieve a crispy skin.
- Flip and finish cooking: Reduce the heat to medium, flip the salmon carefully, and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it’s cooked through but still moist inside. Remember it will continue cooking slightly after removal from the heat.
- Serve: Serve immediately with fresh lemon juice squeezed over the top. The crispy skin is optional to eat and can be peeled off easily if desired.
Notes
- Bringing the salmon to room temperature before cooking helps it cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of salmon to avoid overcooking.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
- Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- The crispy skin is best eaten immediately as it may lose crispiness over time.
Keywords: pan seared salmon, salmon recipe, easy salmon, healthy salmon dinner, stovetop salmon, crispy skin salmon