This Easy Pan-Seared Salmon is a quick and flavorful way to prepare salmon, yielding perfectly crispy skin and tender, flaky fish every time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on your table in minutes.

Ingredients:

1 pound salmon, cut into 4 pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

Prepare the Salmon:
Take the salmon out of the fridge 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Pat the salmon pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat the Skillet:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter has melted and the skillet is hot.
Cook the Salmon:
Place the salmon skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the skin crisp up. Reduce the heat to medium, flip the salmon, and cook for another 2-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. For fillets thicker than 1 inch, cook longer; thinner fillets will require less time.
Rest and Serve:
Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before serving. The residual heat will finish cooking the fish. For added flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins.
Crispy and Flavorful: The perfectly seared skin adds a delightful crunch, while the butter and olive oil create a rich flavor.

Tips

Dry the salmon well: Patting the salmon dry helps ensure a good sear and crispy skin.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches, if necessary, prevents steaming and ensures proper browning.
Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet: This helps prevent the skin from sticking.

Variations and Substitutions

Lemon Herb Butter: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley, dill, or thyme for extra flavor.
Garlic Butter Salmon: Sauté minced garlic in the butter before adding the salmon for a garlicky twist.
Spicy Salmon: Season the salmon with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes for a bit of heat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

How do I know when the salmon is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

What if I don’t like the skin?
The skin is easy to remove after cooking, but leaving it on during cooking helps retain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pan-seared salmon alongside steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, pair it with cauliflower rice or roasted asparagus. A side of crusty bread or a light quinoa salad also complements the salmon beautifully.

This Easy Pan-Seared Salmon is a versatile, foolproof recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!