Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering recipe for Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon. In just 30 minutes or less, you can have a perfectly cooked salmon fillet that is bursting with flavor. Simply cook the salmon skin-side-up over medium/high heat for 4 minutes, then flip and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145ºF. This recipe is not only incredibly delicious, but it's also incredibly easy to make. If you're a fan of salmon, then this is a dish you'll definitely want to try. Don't forget to check out some of our other delicious and savory salmon recipes as well, like the Dill Salmon and Eggs Scramble or the Baked Salmon. Dive into the world of flavors with this Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon recipe!

Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon: A Quick and Delicious Meal Option

Is there anything better than a perfectly cooked piece of salmon? With its tender and flaky texture, paired with a burst of flavor from lemon and butter, Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon is a quick and delicious meal option that will impress your taste buds and your dinner guests. In just 30 minutes or less, you can have a restaurant-quality dish that is both healthy and flavorful. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients

To make Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Salmon fillets
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon zest
• Butter

Seasoning the salmon

Before cooking the salmon, it's important to season it properly to enhance its natural flavors. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect seasoning:

Patting the salmon dry

Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it removes any excess moisture, allowing the salmon to sear properly and develop a crispy exterior.

Seasoning with salt and black pepper

Next, generously season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper. The salt helps to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon, while the black pepper adds a hint of heat and complexity.

Adding lemon zest

To give the salmon a bright and citrusy flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest over the seasoned fillets. Lemon zest adds a refreshing and tangy element to the dish, complementing the richness of the salmon and butter.

Cooking the salmon

With the salmon properly seasoned, it's time to cook it to perfection. Follow these steps for a beautifully cooked Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon:

Preheating the skillet

To ensure even cooking and a crispy sear, preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Preheating the skillet allows for a quick and seamless cooking process, preventing the salmon from sticking to the pan.

Adding butter to the skillet

Once the skillet is hot, add a pat of butter to the pan. The butter will add richness and help to develop a flavorful crust on the salmon.

Placing the salmon in the skillet

Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side-up in the hot skillet. The skin acts as a protective barrier between the flesh and the heat, ensuring that the salmon remains juicy and tender.

Cooking the salmon skin-side-up

Cook the salmon skin-side-up for about 4 minutes. This allows the skin to become crispy and golden brown, adding both texture and flavor to the dish.

Flipping the salmon

After 4 minutes, carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula. The flesh side should be beautifully seared, and the skin side should be golden and crispy.

Cooking the salmon until the internal temperature reaches 145ºF

Continue cooking the salmon for another 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145ºF. This ensures that the salmon is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Tips for Success

To ensure that your Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon turns out perfectly every time, keep the following tips in mind:

Choose fresh salmon fillets

When shopping for salmon, look for fillets that are vibrant in color and have a mild, fresh scent. Fresh salmon will produce the best results and have a delicate flavor.

Use a non-stick skillet

Using a non-stick skillet will prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan and make flipping the fillets easier. This also promotes even cooking and prevents the salmon from tearing apart.

Let the salmon come to room temperature before cooking

Allowing the salmon to come to room temperature before cooking ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its moisture. Cold salmon can seize up when it hits the heat, resulting in an unevenly cooked piece of fish.

Cook the salmon skin-side-up first

Searing the salmon skin-side-up first allows the skin to become crispy and adds a delicious texture to the dish. It also helps to protect the delicate flesh, keeping it moist and tender.

Variations

While Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different seasonings and flavors to add variety to your meals. Here are a few variations to try:

Garlic Butter Pan Seared Salmon

For a garlicky twist, add minced garlic to the skillet along with the butter. The garlic will infuse the salmon with its bold flavor, creating a mouthwatering and aromatic dish.

Citrus Herb Pan Seared Salmon

To enhance the citrusy flavors, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or basil, to the salmon during the cooking process. The herbs will add depth and freshness to the dish.

Spicy Cajun Pan Seared Salmon

If you're in the mood for some heat, season the salmon with a Cajun spice blend before cooking. The blend typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and other aromatic spices, providing a spicy and flavorful kick.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables

Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini, make a colorful and nutritious accompaniment to the salmon. The caramelized flavors of the roasted vegetables complement the richness of the fish, creating a well-balanced meal.

Pair with a fresh salad

A light and refreshing salad can help to balance the richness of the salmon. Try a mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a cucumber and tomato salad for a burst of freshness.

Serve with mashed potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect comfort food to serve alongside Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon. The buttery and velvety texture of the potatoes pairs well with the tender and flavorful salmon.

Storage

If you have any leftover Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume the leftover salmon within 2-3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon contains the following nutritional information:

• Calories: X
• Protein: Xg
• Fat: Xg
• Carbohydrates: Xg

Conclusion

With its combination of tangy lemon, rich butter, and perfectly cooked salmon, Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon is a meal option that is both quick and delicious. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Experiment with different seasonings and serve it with your favorite side dishes to make it your own. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a crowd, this Lemon Butter Pan Seared Salmon recipe is a winner. So go ahead, grab some fresh salmon fillets, and get cooking!