This super easy pan seared salmon recipe produces deliciously tender and flaky filets with crispy skins.

plated Pan Seared Salmon Filets with a salad

You’ll Love This Pan Seared Salmon Recipe Because…

  • Butter, lemon juice, and oil combine to make a zesty, savory, and buttery base for the sauce.
  • The salmon skin becomes crispy and slightly crunchy while the flesh remains flaky and tender.
  • The result is an entree that has a zesty, buttery, and satisfying flavor in every bite.
lemon , lemon pepper , paprika , oil , butter , garlic , dill , salmon with labels to make Pan Seared Salmon Filets

Ingredients and Variations

Salmon: Skin-on salmon creates a layer between the fish and the skillet and adds amazing flavor once it’s cooked in the lemony garlic butter. Fresh or frozen salmon filets can be used in this recipe. Thaw frozen filets in the refrigerator before using and pat away any excess liquid. Thinner filets will need less cooking time.

Seasonings: Likely, everything you need for this recipe is already in the pantry. Instead of lemon pepper seasoning, go for a homemade Italian blend if you like.

Variations

Whisk in a little honey in Step 2 for a sweeter lemony sauce. Garnish the finished filets with fresh lemon zest or lemon slices and sliced green onions for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

How to Make Pan Seared Salmon Filets

  1. Season salmon filets (recipe below).
  2. Heat oil in a skillet and add oil, butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
  3. Cook salmon skin side down until the skin is browned and it reaches the desired temperature.
  4. Season salmon filets with fresh lemon juice and salt and pepper before serving.

Did You Know?

The white liquid you might see once the fish is cooked is called albumin. It is safe to eat and flavorless.

easy Pan Seared Salmon Filets with dill and lemon on a plate

Leftovers?

Store leftover pan seared salmon filets in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave at 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking.

Freeze filets in zippered bags for up to one month. Once frozen salmon is thawed it won’t be as firm, but it’s perfect for topping on homemade crostini as an appetizer or mixed into an omelet or dip.

fork with a piece of Pan Seared Salmon Filets

Pan Seared Salmon Tastes Great With…

Did you enjoy this Pan Seared Salmon Filets recipe? Be sure to leave a comment and rating below.

plated Pan Seared Salmon Filets with a salad
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Pan Seared Salmon Filets

Pan seared salmon filets have a crispy skin, flaky inside, and a flavorful zesty buttery sauce.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 11 minutes
Servings 4
Author Candace

Equipment

Ingredients  

  • 1 pound salmon 4 filets, skin on (about 4 ounces each)
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
  • ¼ -½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh dill
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 Tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 lemon cut in half
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 

  • Season both sides of salmon with lemon pepper seasoning and paprika. Sprinkle the top of the salmon with dill.
  • Heat a medium skillet on medium high heat. Add oil, butter, garlic, and lemon juice to the skillet.
  • To the skillet, add salmon, skin side down, and sear for 3-6 minutes or until the skin is nicely browned and the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
  • Remove skillet from heat and squeeze one lemon half over the salmon.
  • Plate filets, squeeze with the other lemon half, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

  • Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days and 1 month in the freezer. 
5 from 2 votes↑ Click stars to rate now!
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Nutrition Information

Calories: 233 | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 629mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 217IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.

Course Main Course
Cuisine American

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About the author

I am a wife, mother of two, and professional accountant. I love fantastic food, and it is so often the center of our lives, from everyday dinner, to family gatherings, and special evenings at fabulous restaurants. I have always loved cooking and baking, with my mom and grandma, and now, with my daughter and son. I love trying new recipes while enjoying my favorites too. I’m so happy to share them with you.
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