Salmon Recipe

Treat yourself to a delightful dish with this easy-to-follow Pan-Seared Salmon recipe. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it’s perfect for a quick and flavorful meal any day of the week.

Pan-Seared Salmon Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets, skin-on, about 6 ounces each
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
• Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley), for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan:
   • Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sear the Salmon:
   • Place the salmon fillets in the hot pan, skin-side down if they have skin. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan.
   • Cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon will release from the pan easily once it’s properly seared.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
   • Carefully flip the salmon fillets with a spatula. If using garlic, add minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Cook the salmon on the other side for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon reaches your desired doneness. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Serve:
   • Transfer the salmon fillets to a serving plate, skin-side down if seared with skin.
   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon fillets and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Enjoy:
   • Serve the pan-seared salmon immediately while hot. It pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Salmon:

• Skin-On Fillets: Cooking salmon with the skin on helps to keep the flesh moist and adds flavor.
• Temperature Control: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillets to avoid overcooking.
• Flavor Variations: Enhance the dish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, a sprinkle of capers, or a dab of compound butter.

Pan-seared salmon is quick to prepare and offers a delicious, crispy exterior with tender, flaky fish inside. Enjoy this simple yet elegant dish for a delightful meal any day of the week!