Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce

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Golden, crispy edges with a melt-in-your-mouth interior – that’s the magic of this Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce. A restaurant-quality dish made effortlessly at home, this salmon is pan-seared to perfection and bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that clings to every bite. It’s rich in flavor, yet refreshingly light thanks to the bright notes of fresh lemon and herbs.

Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a go-to option when you need something delicious and quick without compromising on quality or taste.

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Ingredients for this Pan Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce

• 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless, about 6 oz each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh chopped parsley or dill, for garnish

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Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

Carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down if applicable. Sear for 4-5 minutes without moving until a golden crust forms. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until salmon is just cooked through.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Push the salmon to one side of the pan. Add butter and garlic to the empty space. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then stir in lemon juice.

Step 5: Coat and Serve

Spoon the garlic butter over the salmon several times to coat. Remove from heat. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley or dill before serving.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave at 50% power to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking during reheating to preserve texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 salmon fillet with sauce):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of salmon works best for this recipe?

Both wild-caught and farm-raised salmon work well. Choose fillets that are evenly thick for even cooking.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat the salmon dry before cooking.

Is the skin edible?

Absolutely. When seared properly, the skin becomes crispy and delicious.

Can I use ghee or another oil instead of butter?

Ghee or olive oil can be used, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What side dishes go well with this recipe?

Great options include rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure the oil used is dairy-free.

How can I enhance the lemon flavor?

Add a bit of lemon zest to the garlic butter for a brighter citrus flavor.

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