Description
This easy, foolproof salmon recipe gives you crispy skin, juicy flaky flesh, and flavor that works every time. Made with simple, fresh ingredients and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for guests or prepping a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers consistent, impressive results—every time. It’s adaptable, fast, and packed with clean, vibrant flavors that let the natural richness of salmon shine through.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley
- Optional: pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Pat the salmon fillets dry and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil.
- Place salmon skin-side down. Press gently to avoid curling. Cook for 4–5 minutes.
- Flip carefully and cook for 2–3 more minutes until just opaque in the center.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the top. Let rest 2 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with desired sides.
Notes
Don’t skip the resting time—it’s crucial for juicy fish.
Feel free to use this as a base for other seasonings or sauces.
Leftovers make great salad toppers or sandwich fillings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 295