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Lemon Garlic Salmon: A Bright and Flavorful Recipe

Perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets with crispy skin, bathed in a vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce. A light yet luxurious meal that’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes!

  • Author: ranime
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6oz) salmon fillets, skin-on
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (plus 1 tsp zest)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep salmon: Pat dry with paper towels. Season skinless side with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Sear skin: Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high. Place salmon skin-side down. Press gently with spatula for 30 seconds to prevent curling. Cook 4-5 minutes until skin is crispy.
  3. Flip & cook: Turn salmon. Add 1 tbsp butter to pan. Cook 2-3 minutes until internal temp reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium. Remove to plate.
  4. Make sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broth and lemon juice; simmer 1 minute. Whisk in remaining butter until creamy.
  5. Finish: Return salmon to pan skin-side up. Spoon sauce over fillets. Garnish with parsley and zest.
  6. Serve immediately with extra lemon slices.

Notes

  • Skin trick: Score skin with sharp knife to prevent curling
  • For richer sauce: Add 1 tbsp heavy cream at the end
  • Alternative cooking: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes
  • Pair with: Roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes
  • Storage: Best fresh but keeps refrigerated 2 days

Nutrition