salmon with lemon

Quick and Easy Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

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Salmon with lemon is a timeless pairing that brings together the richness of fish with the zesty freshness of citrus. When you’re craving a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing, this pan-seared salmon with lemon butter sauce hits the spot perfectly. The best part? You can have this delicious dish on the table in just 10 minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

But don’t let the quick preparation time fool you—this recipe is anything but ordinary. The golden sear on the salmon adds a delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender, flaky interior. The lemon butter sauce is the star of the show, infusing each bite with a bright, tangy flavor that enhances the natural taste of the salmon without overpowering it.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe is versatile enough to fit the bill. It’s perfect for a quick dinner after a long day at work, yet elegant enough for a date night in. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, offering a host of health benefits thanks to salmon’s omega-3 fatty acids.

So, if you’re seeking a balance between taste, nutrition, and convenience, this pan-seared salmon with lemon butter sauce is an ideal choice. Let’s get started and see just how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 2 fresh salmon fillets
  • 1 tablespoon house seasoning (or a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon
  • 2 tablespoons compound butter (or unsalted butter)
  • 2 tablespoons water (for reducing the sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Salmon

  1. Season the Fillets
    • Generously coat the salmon with house seasoning, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
  2. Heat the Pan
    • Place a skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
    • Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot and ready for searing.
  3. Sear the Salmon
    • Place the salmon fillets flesh side down in the hot pan.
    • Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a golden crust.

2. Making the Lemon Butter Sauce

  1. Reduce the Lemon Juice
    • In a separate small saucepan, add water and fresh lemon juice.
    • Let it simmer over medium-high heat until the juice reduces slightly.
  2. Incorporate the Butter
    • Lower the heat and whisk in cold compound butter until fully melted.
    • Stir gently, ensuring the sauce emulsifies into a smooth, velvety texture.
  3. Perfecting the Sauce
    • Avoid boiling the butter—keep the heat low to maintain a creamy consistency.
    • Once combined, remove from heat and set aside.

3. Finishing and Serving

  1. Check for Doneness
    • Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
  2. Plate and Garnish
    • Transfer the salmon to a serving plate and generously spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fillets.
  3. Serve and Enjoy
    • Pair with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
salmon with lemon butter sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes!
✔️ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, omega-3s, and fresh ingredients.
✔️ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Impress your family with this gourmet dish.

This quick pan-seared salmon with lemon butter sauce is the ultimate easy meal for seafood lovers. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

2. What can I use instead of avocado oil?
Olive oil or ghee are great substitutes for a rich flavor.

3. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.

4. Can I add garlic to the sauce?
Absolutely! Minced garlic sautéed in butter before adding lemon juice enhances the flavor.

5. What sides go well with this salmon?
Try roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a quinoa salad for a balanced meal.

Enjoy cooking and happy eating! 🍽️✨