Crispy Top and Bottom Fresh Salmon
Master the art of stovetop searing with this irresistible recipe for Crispy Top and Bottom Fresh Salmon. Featuring tender skin-on salmon fillets with perfectly golden, crackling layers on both sides, this quick and easy dish elevates weeknight dining in just 20 minutes. The secret is in the technique: a hot skillet, a touch of olive oil, and gentle basting with nutty browned butter for extra flavor. Infused with a simple seasoning blend of sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and smoky paprika, this salmon is finished with a refreshing squeeze of lemon juice and an optional sprinkle of fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Ideal for seafood lovers, this recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad. Perfect your crispy salmon game and enjoy a meal that's as flavorful as it is stunning!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 0.5 teaspoons sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper (freshly ground)
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika
- 0.5 pieces lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Pat both sides of the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help ensure a crispy sear.
Season both sides of the salmon evenly with sea salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan.
Carefully flip the salmon using a fish spatula. Add the unsalted butter to the pan and let it melt. Tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to baste the top of the salmon with the melted butter.
Cook the salmon for another 3-4 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (medium-rare) or 135°F (medium). The tops and bottoms should be golden and crispy.
Remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for 2 minutes to allow the juices to settle.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon and garnish with chopped parsley, if using.
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
488 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 47.6 g | 61% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.9 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 67 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 1192 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.4 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.8 g | ||
| Protein | 13.6 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 6.8 mcg | 34% | |
| Calcium | 23 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 229 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
