Pan-Seared Salmon with Garlic Butter is a simple yet luxurious dish that brings out the rich, buttery flavor of the salmon with the perfect crispy crust. The garlic butter sauce is a delightful addition, infusing the fish with savory, aromatic goodness. This recipe is quick to make, requiring just a few ingredients, and is ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice to complete the meal. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (skin on or off, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down if using skin-on. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them, allowing a crispy golden crust to form.
- Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Transfer the salmon to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden. Stir in the lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Serve: Return the salmon to the skillet and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the fillets. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the salmon. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Pan-Seared Salmon with Garlic Butter is a quick and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the rich, flaky salmon with the savory, tangy butter sauce. It’s a versatile meal that can be paired with almost any side for a well-rounded dinner.
