Crispy Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon

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If you are craving a restaurant-quality meal at home that requires minimal effort, Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon is the ultimate go-to dish! Featuring perfectly seared salmon fillets with golden, crispy skin bathed in a velvety garlic lemon butter sauce, this recipe is rich, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful. Ready in just under 15 minutes, it is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal.

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • Salmon Fillets: 4 skin-on salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each).
  • Seasoning: 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, and ½ tsp paprika.
  • Oil: 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing).

For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:

  • Butter: 3 tbsp unsalted butter.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves minced.
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice.
  • Broth/Water: 2 tbsp low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (or water).
  • Garnish: Freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Salmon:
    • Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels (especially the skin side to ensure crispiness).
    • Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  2. Pan-Sear to Crispy Perfection:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
    • Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down.
    • Press down gently on each fillet with a spatula for 10 seconds to prevent curling.
    • Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the skin is golden and ultra-crispy.
    • Flip carefully and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the flesh side until almost cooked through. Transfer salmon to a plate.
  3. Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
    • Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).
    • Pour in the fresh lemon juice and broth/water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  4. Baste and Serve:
    • Return the salmon fillets to the skillet.
    • Spoon the warm garlic lemon butter sauce over the fillets continuously for 1 minute.
    • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra lemon slices, and serve hot!

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Dry the Skin: Thoroughly drying the salmon skin before cooking is the secret to achieving a super crispy texture.
  • Hot Pan First: Make sure your skillet and oil are hot before adding the fish so it sears instantly without sticking.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair this rich salmon with steamed jasmine rice, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a fresh green salad.

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