Pan Seared Salmon with Herb Garlic Butter

• 4 salmon fillets, about 6 oz each
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Steps

1. 1 Pat salmon dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. 2 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. 3 Place salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until skin is crispy.
4. 4 Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until desired doneness.
5. 5 Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. 6 Add garlic, parsley, dill, and lemon zest to the melted butter; cook gently for 1-2 minutes.
7. 7 Remove salmon from skillet and spoon herb garlic butter over each fillet immediately.
8. 8 Serve with extra butter on the side.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Saucepan

Variations

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salmon before serving.
• Substitute dill with thyme for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions

• If you're out of fresh herbs, use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs instead.
• Coconut oil can be used in place of olive oil for a tropical twist.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
• A side of garlic mashed potatoes would complement the dish beautifully.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the salmon in lemon juice and olive oil for 20 minutes before cooking.
• Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon to achieve a perfect sear.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F to preserve texture.

Freezing: This dish does not freeze well due to the texture of the salmon changing after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted asparagus and a side of quinoa for a balanced meal.
• Pairs wonderfully with a glass of crisp Chardonnay.

FAQ