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Crispy Pan-Seared Salmon Recipe Perfect for Quick Zesty Dinners

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A quick and easy pan-seared salmon recipe featuring crispy skin and a zesty lemon caper butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 skin-on salmon fillets, about 6 ounces (170 grams) each, preferably wild-caught
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, for finishing

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat a 10-inch non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Let it get hot but not smoking, shimmering. (2 minutes)
  3. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the pan. Press down lightly with a spatula or tongs for 15 seconds to prevent curling. Cook without moving for about 5-6 minutes until the skin is deep golden and crisp. (6 minutes)
  4. Carefully flip the fillets and cook the flesh side for another 2-3 minutes until just cooked through but still moist inside. (3 minutes)
  5. Transfer the salmon to a warm plate and tent with foil while you make the sauce. (2 minutes)
  6. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the lemon juice and capers, stirring to combine. Let the sauce bubble gently for 1-2 minutes. (5 minutes)
  7. Pour the lemon caper butter sauce over the salmon fillets, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and add a final grind of black pepper. Serve immediately. (2 minutes)

Notes

Patting the salmon dry is essential for crispy skin. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat. Press the fillets down gently when placing skin-side down to prevent curling. Flip only once to maintain skin crispiness. If skin browns too fast or oil splatters, reduce heat slightly. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil. Capers can be replaced with chopped green olives.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, pan-seared salmon, crispy salmon, lemon caper butter sauce, quick dinner, healthy seafood, easy salmon recipe

Find it online: https://cravemila.com/crispy-pan-seared-salmon-recipe-perfect-for-quick-zesty-dinners/