Elevate your dinner game with this 'Perfectly Seared Salmon' recipe, featuring crispy, golden skin and tender, flaky fish. With just a handful of ingredients—including fresh salmon fillets, olive oil, and a squeeze of zesty lemon—this quick and easy dish delivers restaurant-quality results in only 20 minutes. The secret lies in achieving the perfect sear by patting the fish dry and pressing it gently into a hot skillet until the skin is irresistibly crispy. Optional garlic powder and fresh dill introduce layers of flavor that pair beautifully with the brightness of lemon juice. Ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is a showstopper that accommodates any side dish, from roasted vegetables to a light salad. Search no further for "crispy salmon recipe" or "easy seared salmon dinner"—this family favorite has it all!
Ensure the salmon fillets are at room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, as this helps achieve a crispy skin.
Season both sides of the salmon fillets with salt, black pepper, and optionally garlic powder.
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan.
Cook the salmon without moving it for about 5-6 minutes or until the skin is crispy and releases easily from the pan.
Carefully flip the salmon fillets over and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
Remove the salmon from the pan and let it rest for a minute. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top of the fillets.
Garnish with chopped fresh dill if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Calories |
291 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.4 g | 36% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.4 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1946 mg | 85% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 12.1 g | 4% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.1 g | ||
| Protein | 1.5 g | 3% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 51 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 1.3 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 220 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.