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I’m excited to share my favorite pan seared salmon recipe with you! It’s easy and perfect for a quick, healthy dinner. You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes.
The secret to great crispy skin salmon is easy: choose the right size fillets, season them well, and cook without touching them. I use simple ingredients like olive oil, salt, and pepper. This lets the salmon’s true flavor come out. You get a golden, crispy outside and a soft, flaky inside that tastes amazing!
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
This pan seared salmon recipe is going to be your new favorite. It’s perfect for busy home cooks who want tasty meals fast.
It’s super quick and easy. You can make a delicious salmon dinner in just 15 minutes. It’s great for those busy weeknights when you’re short on time.
The crispy skin is amazing. This method makes a golden crust that’s often missing in home-cooked fish. It turns your meal into something special.
It’s also great for health lovers. Salmon is full of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s a healthy choice for dinner.
This recipe is very versatile. You can change the seasonings or sides to make different meals. It’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special events.
It’s also easy for beginners. Whether you’re new to cooking or have been doing it for years, you’ll find this recipe simple. It’s a great way to impress your family or guests with little effort.
This pan seared salmon recipe is my go-to for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal that never fails to impress.
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
I love this pan seared salmon recipe for its simplicity and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
For an extra kick, try these seasoning options:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon paprika
Don’t forget a lemon for serving! It adds a bright, zesty touch to the dish.
- Avocado oil instead of olive oil
- Sea salt in place of kosher salt
- Lime as an alternative to lemon
For the seasoning mix, I like to experiment with different flavors. Italian herbs, Cajun seasoning, or a simple lemon pepper blend work great. Feel free to get creative and find your favorite combination!
Instructions
I love searing salmon for a quick, tasty meal. Here’s how I get that perfect crispy skin. First, I dry the salmon and season it with salt and pepper. Sometimes, I add garlic powder or paprika for extra taste.
Next, I heat oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, I put the salmon in skin-side down. A pro tip: press the fillet gently for 10 seconds to keep the skin flat.
Cooking time for pan-seared salmon is quick. I cook it for 4 minutes on one side until the skin gets crispy. Then, I flip it over and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
For extra-crispy skin, make small slits in the skin before cooking. This helps the fat render and makes the skin crunchy. Cooking time is about 8-9 minutes, depending on the fillet’s thickness.
To finish, I squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and add zest. This makes the salmon bright and tasty. Now, you’re ready to enjoy your perfectly seared salmon!
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I have some great tips for cooking salmon perfectly every time. First, let your salmon sit at room temperature before cooking. This makes sure it cooks evenly. When you’re ready, heat your pan until it’s hot. Add oil just before putting in the salmon to stop it from burning.
For crispy skin, make small cuts in the skin. This helps it cook right and get crispy. Cook the salmon skin-side down first. Don’t put too many pieces in the pan. A fish spatula is perfect for flipping without breaking the fish.
- Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork
- For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 120°F
Storing leftovers is simple. Put your cooked salmon in a container that seals well and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you reheat salmon, do it carefully to keep it moist. I like to use a pan on low heat or microwave in short bits. This way, you can enjoy your tasty salmon even days later!
The key to perfect salmon is patience and attention to detail.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
I love to mix things up with my pan-seared salmon. Try different salmon seasoning for a tasty twist. Lemon-dill gives a fresh kick, while honey-mustard adds a sweet tang. Feeling adventurous? Go for a teriyaki glaze. These simple changes can transform your meal.
When it comes to side dishes, I keep it light and healthy. Roasted veggies or quinoa make great partners for salmon. For a Mediterranean diet touch, serve it over arugula with lemon and olive oil. Greek lemon rice is another great option that goes well with the fish.
To elevate your dish, add a sauce. A creamy dill or lemon butter sauce can take your salmon to new heights. This versatile fish fits into many healthy meal ideas. I often pair it with whole grain and extra veggies for a balanced plate. It’s an easy way to create delicious, nutritious dinners that never get boring.